As we deal with a shortage of technicians in the field, training may take a back seat. However, many business consultants have found that when they ask workers why they stay with a company, a common answer is the company’s commitment to providing training.

Investing in education makes sense on many levels, and continues to be important when determining what skills and talents technicians will need in the future.

Creating a winning program

Many competent technicians are being laid off from tech companies, which presents an opportunity to entice them to join the electrical contracting industry. Of course, they will need to enhance their knowledge, skills and competence in the electrical field. 

As you already know (and may already have training programs to provide), the following is just a basic list of learning objectives:

• The fundamentals of electrical theory
• Electrical safety procedures and regulations, as safety is paramount
• Codes and regulations
• Tools and equipment
• Systems and circuits 
• Electrical system troubleshooting
• Electrical installation and maintenance procedures in compliance with codes and regulations

Familiarity with emerging technologies is extremely important and will need to be continually addressed. The good news is that those recently laid-off technicians already have a strong background in software­-driven devices and controls and will readily adapt to the software-driven fire alarm systems.

If you’ve created or are thinking of creating a training program for employees, one important aspect is learning objectives.

Objectives give training focus. They answer the million-dollar question, “What’s in it for me?” for every program, and they give trainees a clear idea of what they can achieve when they are finished.

The training objectives for a fire alarm system may vary depending on the type of system and the individual’s role in its operation. However, some common training objectives for a fire alarm system may include:

• The basics of fire alarm systems, namely a clear understanding of the components that make up a fire alarm system, including smoke detectors, heat detectors, control panels and alarm devices
• The types of appliances used for notification, including standard horn notification and voice communication systems using loudspeakers
• NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
• How to respond appropriately when an alarm is activated, including the steps to take in response to ensure the safety of building occupants and property
• The importance of regular fire alarm system testing and maintenance, including how to perform basic maintenance tasks, schedule professional inspections and testing and the requirements of the inspection, testing and maintenance chapter in NFPA 72
• The building and fire codes and regulations that have been locally adopted, and the jurisdiction’s regulations, including requirements for fire alarm systems, testing and maintenance
• Emergency procedures to follow while working in the building, including evacuation routes and procedures. Technicians should be able to respond quickly and calmly in the event of an emergency.
• Troubleshooting, problem-solving and quick, effective resolution of common problems with fire alarm systems

By achieving these objectives, you can ensure technicians are well-prepared to operate and maintain fire alarm systems.

Soft skills training

Other than technical training, technicians will also need training in the “soft skills” necessary to stand out from competitors. For example, teaching technicians the importance of following this advice from Napoleon Hill will go a long way in keeping customers happy and sole-sourcing your company for their electrical and fire alarm needs: “The habit of going the extra mile merely means the practice of rendering more and better service than you are paid to render—and doing it in a positive, pleasing attitude.” This philosophy is a state of mind and needs to be reinforced daily to ensure technicians provide the best customer service possible. 

Remember that constant training will position your company as one dedicated to doing what’s right and help you gain an advantage over the competition. Never put off the opportunities to learn, and never be too busy to learn.

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