Connecting Henry recently completed their inaugural S.W.A.G. Certified Maintenance Employee (CME) training. There were 12 participating students in the program that is accredited and recognized nationally by the American Hotel & Lodging Institute.
The Certified Maintenance Employee training does not cost the students and only requires the participation and cooperation of the students taking the course.
The 12 week training program teaches individuals ages 18-24 how to cultivate hands-on skills in general maintenance, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems. The classes took place on Monday through Thursday in the afternoon.
Representatives from Connecting Henry partnered with outside supporters and trainers to provide a well-rounded curriculum for the 12 week period. In the first portion of the training, students alternated between in-class training taught by Connecting Henry employees and field trips to off-site locations to shadow supporters and trainers in various fields and disciplines.
Supporters and trainers included Atlanta Apartment Association, B&W Forklift Training Center, Central Georgia EMC, First Response Safety Training, Henry County Health Department, High Priority Plumbing, Holiday Inn & Suites in Stockbridge, Independent Electrical Contractors, The Home Depot in McDonough #157, Lowes in McDonough #1153, RQ Home Inspections, and The Residence Inn by Marriott Atlanta in McDonough.
“They learned how to replace showerheads and sink faucets, install door knobs, hang ceiling fans, and repair and replace different items around the house,” said Barbara Coleman, Executive Director of Connecting Henry. “The students also learned first aid and to be aware of bloodborne pathogens.”
Other organizations, such as Gigi’s House and the McDonough Police Department, taught students other valuable skills.
“Gigi’s House came and spoke to the students about being aware on the job and looking for signs of sex trafficking,” said Coleman. “The McDonough Police Department also talked to the students about safety when they are working in hotels or apartment buildings.”
The six weeks of in-class training was immediately followed by six weeks of paid work experience with partners such as Cotton Fields Golf Club, Henry County Department of Transportation- Sign Shop, Fairfield Inn & Suites in Stockbridge, Henry County Fleet Services, Henry County Parks & Recreation, McDonough Housing Authority, and Penco Electrical Contractors, Inc.
Connecting Henry covers the cost of the students’ wages and workman’s compensation for the entire six week work experience period.
“This program gave students hands on training in all types of valuable jobs,” said Coleman. “They can now say, ‘I don’t want to do this job’ or ‘I think I like this job better.’”
All 12 students that signed up for the program graduated. Each student that graduated was given a tool bucket with tools that they will need for their upcoming job. “This was a very good opportunity for the students and I am very proud,” said Coleman. “They received comprehensive course training that gives them ideas about what they want to do with their futures.”
Connecting Henry will host another Certified Maintenance Employee training in January of 2020, which will be a 10 week long class for 2 hours a day on Monday through Thursday. Participants must be Henry County Residents. Call Connecting Henry at 770-288-6230 for more details about the upcoming course.
