Something new and exciting is happening at Home-Tech starting October 4th. For the first time ever we welcome apprentices to an appliance repair apprenticeship program. I had a chance to speak with Brian Schraufnagl, Home-Tech’s full time Training Manager. I asked him a few questions about this unique training/job opportunity.
Table of Contents
Why is Home-Tech having its first ever Appliance Repair Apprenticeship Program?
So, Brian, this is pretty exciting! Why is Home-Tech doing this new type of training apprenticeship?
Brian: Appliances and air conditioning equipment are becoming very high tech and complicated. In the past we just started out apprentice technicians in an air conditioning apprenticeship and then slowly moved them into appliance repairs. We have found it is very hard for someone that is new to the trade to learn both appliance repair and air conditioning repair because it’s so complex. With the technical advancements of appliances we find ourselves in need of a great number of well trained appliance techs. If we can get them started in this part of the trade it will help us keep up with our growing Membership’s service needs.
So when does it start?
Brian: Classes start on October 4th 2016. I’m really looking forward to training these candidates.
How long will it last?
Brian: The appliance repair apprenticeship program is a 12 week course with classes 2 days a week with me, and 3 days a week in the field. They will be partnered with an experienced, skilled technician. The two class days with me will be in our training center at Home-Tech in Ft Myers where we have all of the needed equipment.
What were you looking for in the candidates?
Brian: I was looking for them to be very motivated and serious about starting a career. The candidates we like to hire are very personable with good attitudes. Being mechanically inclined isn’t a requirement, but it does help. We have an in-depth interview process and have found our first four candidates meeting our criteria for this new program.
What will they be learning (in general)?
Brian: During the course they will learn basic electricity, the refrigeration cycle and how all appliances work. They’ll learn refrigerators, washers, dryers, stoves, etc. We do a lot of hands on training with tools and with actual appliances. They will get a chance to tear them down and put them back together.
Will they end up with any certifications?
Brian: They will be getting their EPA certification which allows them to work with appliances that use refrigerant, such as refrigerators.
What will their first weeks be like once their classes are over?
Brian: Once they graduate they will be on the road (in the field) putting in P.O.’s (which are parts already ordered by other techs). And after a while they will start getting their own service calls. That’s the goal . . . to get them out there working independently and doing a great job!
We’re excited to get an update about how this new appliance repair apprenticeship program goes, Brian. Thanks for your time!