Zero Zone Responds to the Skilled Trade Workforce Shortage
As the American workforce ages and new technologies arrive in the industrial and commercial refrigeration industries, training a new generation of workers becomes essential. For that reason, Zero Zone collaborated with Apprentice Now to create an apprenticeship program to train new technicians. The 14 candidates that were selected finished their 10-week program on December 3. Although they have graduated from the program, these students will continue their hands-on education in their careers.
Zero Zone helped train these technicians without the expectation that students would take a position with us. They will have the opportunity to apply for a position with Zero Zone or other companies within the industry. Apprentice Now aids the new technicians with placement in open roles throughout the industry. Recognizing the demand for technicians in the industrial and commercial refrigeration industry, we see this partnership as a proactive step.
What is Apprentice Now?
Apprentice Now is an organization that offers full-service training programs preparing workers for highly skilled careers. Their skilled trade programs include HVAC training for future Service Technicians and Installers. Zero Zone collaborated with Apprentice Now to design a specialized curriculum focusing on commercial and industrial refrigeration systems.
Prior to entering the program, the candidates are vetted with the use of technical assessments and a multi-interview process, which can take up to two months. This vetting process ensures the candidates are well-suited for the industry and that they will excel in their chosen career. The apprenticeship program is provided at zero cost to the candidates. The program agreement bars students from pursuing jobs outside of their curriculum, making their studying and training their sole focus for the 10-week period.
Cristi Wisniewski, Director of HR, shared her thoughts on the program:
“For any company seeking skilled workers, Apprentice Now is an excellent partner. They handle everything from recruiting and training to the hiring process. This approach is likely the future of apprenticeships.”
The Skills Learned
The program’s curriculum was designed to balance classroom instruction with hands-on training. During the classroom sessions, students gained a comprehensive understanding of the commercial and industrial refrigeration industry, mastering the principles of refrigeration systems, industry-specific terminology, soldering and brazing techniques, and the tools required to service a refrigeration system. In the subsequent weeks, students applied their theoretical knowledge through practical exercises. Throughout the course, milestone examinations assessed and evaluated the students’ retention and understanding of the material.
Next Generation Technicians at Zero Zone
Kyle Hero, a graduate from the apprenticeship program, had this to say:
“I would recommend this [program] to anyone that wants to learn a trade. I know they do more than just refrigeration, but I know this is a really good opportunity for anyone getting into the refrigeration or HVAC industry.”
Kyle’s positive experience was shared by his fellow graduates and Zero Zone. We will continue to develop skilled technicians that are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the industrial and commercial refrigeration industry.
Moving Forward
The partnership between Zero Zone and Apprentice Now has brought 14 new technicians into our industry. At Zero Zone, we value continual learning and are proud to support programs that equip individuals with the skills and training necessary to succeed in their careers. Zero Zone will continue to seek out and support initiatives that address the growing need for skilled workers in the industrial and commercial refrigeration sector. We are proud to be a part of a program that not only benefits our company but also contributes to the broader industry and community.
Zero Zone will continue to support this program. If you are interested or have questions about the program, send us a general inquiry through our contact us page.