The Maryland Multi-Housing Association (MMHA) recently launched its new Service Training Academy, a three-month skills-development program that prepares graduates for immediate job placement in the residential maintenance industry.
The free course provides HVAC, CFC, plumbing, carpentry, drywall, and electrical training through hands-on instruction and on-site internships with residential housing providers or related businesses.
According to the MMHA, many trade association members, including rental housing providers, residential suppliers, and other residential professionals, have invested in the Service Training Academy by providing tools, appliances, and funding. MMHA members have also taken on interns through the program and anticipate hiring graduates for full-time work.
“The Service Training Academy has been years in the making and reflects the generosity of our members in the multi-housing industry who not only wanted to tackle the issue of finding good maintenance technicians for their facilities, but also provide the means to educate those interested in this career,” said Adam Skolnik, the MMHA’s executive director, in a statement. “[W]e are looking forward to supporting high-quality job creation across Maryland.”
The Academy provides much-needed industry training as the shortage of skilled maintenance technicians in Maryland and across the nation nears record levels. The program welcomed its first students to the Owings Mills, Md., location on Oct. 3 and is open to applicants over 18, with no prior experience necessary.