Phoenix Mecano: Pipeline Development Through Workforce Development Collaboration
An interview with: Tara Julian, Human Resources Manager, Phoenix Mecano, by Latrice Lewis
Industry-driven partnerships play an important role in developing and maintaining the skill sets required by both job seekers and employees. A key element of these partnerships is the role employers such as Phoenix Mecano play in the development of these skill sets.
One example of such a partnership is the Logistics and Production program developed and delivered by FCC. This training initiative aims to equip job seekers with essential skills needed to enter Frederick's expanding logistics sector as Certified Logistics Technicians. Let’s take a look at an employer’s perspective regarding the significance of this type of partnership.
Do you feel the L&P program is valuable to the Frederick County business (manufacturing & trades) community? If yes, why?
Yes, the L&P program is valuable for Frederick County businesses. The program has introduced Phoenix Mecano to candidates with unique and diverse backgrounds. We are always impressed with the TWE (Transitional Work Experience) Interns we interview. Enrolling in the L&P program demonstrates that the students already have adaptability, problem solving skills and initiative. By opening our doors to the TWE and meeting the students that completed the course, we found this consistent. Working with the L&P program has been rewarding and we are fortunate to have hired two graduates from the first class held in 2022.
Why did you/PM decide to partner with FCWS for the L&P program?
Community engagement and mentorship are core areas that we, Phoenix Mecano, believe contribute to the well-being of our employees, our business, and our community. Interns are a reminder to our workforce of our company’s commitment to making a positive impact on our local community. There is also a natural exchange of ideas, perspectives, and experiences that an intern brings that fosters our culture of continuous learning and innovation.
In addition, we were aware of the Certified Logistics Technician curriculum being offered at FCC (Frederick Community College) and we were interested in providing the training to our employees in our Logistics Department. Being a partner and hosting our first TWE Intern was a way to learn more about the program, classroom training and exam. We did decide to provide the L&P training to a group of 15 employees on-site during paid work time. Our interns and employees that took the course have gained fundamental knowledge, confidence, and a CLT certificate which will benefit them in the workforce.
What would you consider is one or two of the best aspects of partnering with FCWS for candidates from the L&P program?
Partnering with FCWS and meeting candidates from the L&P Program has many benefits.
We are meeting candidates that may not know about Phoenix Mecano or have thought about applying for a job here.
The L&P Program is attracting diverse candidates that have a wide variety of life experiences and education level. They bring innovative ideas and valuable skills to our workplace.
What are some of the KPIs you/PM typically look for during recruitments opportunities?
Phoenix Mecano is looking for people that are humble, empathetic, and curious. We have found these key traits directly support our culture of continuous improvement and open and effective communication.
TWE has introduced us to students with these key traits and a wealth of knowledge from other industries and environments.
PM has done a great job at developing a diverse workforce; what are some of the criteria you, PM as an organization, focus on to ensure your organization reflects your community and provides the skill set needed for highly effective teams?
Phoenix Mecano strives to support a work culture that encourages and demonstrates continuous process improvements. The “future of work” will require talent and innovation. We strive to provide on-going professional development for our employees to expand their knowledge.
In addition, we value mentorship and the chance to welcome students and educators to our facility. We open our doors to apprentices, interns, and our community partners in education (FCPS (Frederick County Public Schools), FCC, and Hood College) to share our passion for manufacturing and to develop the next generation of highly skilled individuals for our business.
Anything else you would like to add as a “Best Practice” for Acquiring Talent and leveraging Community Resources and/or details about the L&P program?
A workforce program that embraces diversity, encourages skill development, and promotes an open-minded approach to career paths can contribute to an innovative community of professionals. Recognize transferable skills and encourage people to be versatile. Emphasize the mindset of lifelong learning so that employees remain open to acquiring new skills and feel empowered to navigate and excel during changes in the future.