PSA, along with many educational resources such as “The Bridge”, believes in Vocational Training, whether that is done by officially recognized institutions, large corporations, or local apprenticeship opportunities. As technology advances there are ever more needs for repairs and fixit tech workers. Are we training those in the numbers needed?
A recent local experience in Las Cruces NM would indicate we are not. Because of a faulty new microwave, I had a service call at my residence provided by what used to be called Sears, but now goes by another name. They act as warranty repair and service for most of the appliance brands, so their tech personnel need to know a fair amount about a lot of devices. The service person was a local resident, who had gotten some sort of appliance tech degree from Dona Ana Community College. He was a young adult, and a bit inexperienced, but did the repair satisfactorily.
I asked about his education for his position, and how well the program had prepared him for his work, and that elicited a “positive reply”. But he also mentioned there are a shortage of applications for the student slots available at DACC for this training. He suggested that was because one really had to pay attention well to succeed in the program. He asked me to spread the word.
Which leaves hanging the question of why local students wouldn’t care to, or perhaps couldn’t, apply themselves in the appropriate way to become a tech service provider.
As he departed, I noticed on his company truck, a message saying the company was looking for applicants. Perhaps the next time we talk with Tracey Bryan we can discuss her thoughts on this, as I’m sure she has been working on solutions.