Jim Pemberton said:
I'm teaching the rest of the week, and am on lunch break right now.
If I could ever convince you to be a trainer (you'd be great!)
what things would you want to say in class that you've never heard said, and wish the trainer would tell the students (assume no
IICRC policing is involved!)
I guess it would depend on what the subject I was teaching was. I'd like to see much more in-depth classes on low moisture cleaning which I feel is not taught well enough. Too many guys know just enough to get them in trouble. Current classes do not teach or address these methods well at all.
The industry has experienced a huge jump in chemistry, technology and methodology and current training available does not adequately address or explain it. In fact, most instructors today are not up on the newest information, they have never used it, and if they are even aware of it, they often don't fully understand it. At this point the bulletin boards and a very few progressive suppliers are the only sources for the latest information.
I would stress that while technical knowledge and the best chems and equipment will make you a better cleaner, it won't make you a successful business. Of all the instructors I've ever had, only Doug Heiferman pushed that learning how to run a business is more important than how good a cleaner you are. We need a lot more GOOD business classes for new owner/op's.
I would also stress that we are a part of this industry and have an obligation to see that it represents us well. It is our duty to help bring the level of service and professionalism up, to push for better representation with the mills, retailers and consumer groups. And to be watchdogs of our associations and certifying bodies. We can't blame these entities for poor performance, inbreeding, self-serving, etc. if we remain fractured and apathetic. Get involved, ask questions, don't be afraid to rock the boat once in a while. If the boat can't take a little rocking it aint seaworthy.
Take care,
Lisa