Investing in Tomorrow's Workforce

The Power of Apprenticeships

BY MICHAEL A. GILMARTIN

In the ever-evolving landscape of the construction industry, apprenticeships stand as beacons of opportunity. At M. Davis & Sons, apprenticeships aren't just a program but a cornerstone of our workforce development strategy, driving innovation, productivity, and empowerment within our team. As CEO Peggy DelFabbro puts it, "Graduation from an apprenticeship program is just as important and meaningful as that of a college graduation."

The genesis of our apprenticeship program arose from a fundamental need: the necessity to nurture and cultivate a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of our industry. Recognizing this need, M. Davis & Sons actively participated in the state-sponsored Delaware Apprenticeship Program, which continues today. Through this initiative, we've helped to propel the career trajectories of our team members seeking to upgrade their skill sets.

 Integral to the success of our apprenticeship program is the collaboration across various functional areas within our company. From seasoned tradespeople who serve as mentors to executives who oversee program management, each department plays a crucial role in shaping the apprentice’s journey toward excellence.

Recruitment lies at the heart of our apprenticeship initiative. We’ve adopted a multifaceted approach, forging partnerships with local vocational and technical schools, universities, and colleges. We’ve successfully diversified our talent pipeline by engaging with students early on and emphasizing the myriad of opportunities within the trades. Events such as Apprenticeship Week and National Signing Day serve as platforms to amplify our message: the trades offer not just employment but a pathway to a fulfilling career.

Central to our apprenticeship program is on-the-job learning, related technical instruction, and mentoring. Through hands-on experience, supplemented by classroom instruction and guided mentorship, apprentices receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for success in their chosen trade.

Mentorship is a critical component of our program, with experienced team members serving as guides and advisors to apprentices.

Regarding program costs, our primary investment lies in covering the expenses associated with school. However, the return on investment transcends financial metrics. For us, the accurate measure of success lies in retaining highly skilled, certified journeypersons who contribute to our productivity and innovation.

The impact of apprenticeships on our workforce has been profound. Apprentices who complete their programs emerge as invaluable assets, equipped with the knowledge and expertise to drive our company forward.

An apprenticeship yields tangible rewards with wage increases commensurate with their progress through the program. This incentivizes continued growth and commitment, fostering a culture of continuous learning and advancement.

Apprenticeships represent a commitment to investing in the future.

At M. Davis & Sons, we’re proud to champion apprenticeships, ensuring our workforce remains resilient, adaptable, and primed for the challenges ahead. As we look towards tomorrow, we do so confidently, knowing our apprentices will lead the way.

Michael A. Gilmartin is president & CFO of M. Davis & Sons.