Human Interest Mario Patterson

Mario Patterson

by Chris Smith, Shelter to Shutters

One advantage of a career in the multi-family housing industry is the opportunity to advance. While for some, that first maintenance or groundskeeping job is a shortterm solution, others choose to pursue a rewarding career in the industry. Mario Patterson is an example of the latter.

Mario began his job as a groundskeeper at IMT 8 South in October of 2021. He came to this role through Shelters to Shutters, a non-profit that helps the situationally homeless achieve self-sufficiency by finding housing and employment in the multi-family housing industry. Within three weeks on the job, his supervisor, Joe Lowe, started to encourage him to work toward his EPA certification.

Mario studied twice a week for two hours over a twomonth period, took practice tests every week, and then took the test. On his first try he passed three of the four sections. One week later he passed the fourth part and was granted his EPA 608 Certification. With that certification he immediately earned a raise and a promotion to Certified Maintenance Technician. Mario says he uses his new skills on the job two or three times a week.

While Mario was obviously ready, willing, and able to advance, his employer played a crucial role in his success as well. A supervisor initially encouraged him to pursue advancement, the community manager suggested a work schedule that allowed time for Mario to study, and IMT Residential paid for the testing materials and the test. Michelle Pasquarelli, community manager at IMT 8 South, says, “Mario was eager to achieve success from the very first day he started here at IMT 8 South. IMT provided the tools to help him grow in his career, and he has put in all the work to ensure he succeeds in his new position. We cannot be more satisfied with the great work Mario provides IMT and our residents on a daily basis.”

Mario has continued to advance in his career by taking more online training through IMT, has earned additional raises and another promotion to Senior Certified Maintenance Technician.

Mario loves his new career and is proud of the fact that he has never gotten less than five stars in his performance reviews. When asked his favorite part of the job he says the people he gets to work with. His least favorite part of the job should come as no surprise – being on call. “2:00 a.m. calls are no fun,” he says.

Mario’s advice to others: “Keep your integrity and don’t give up. It all pays off in the end. You get out what you put into it. And hard work really does pay off.”

An oft-heard cliché is “it takes two to tango.” Mario’s story bears this out. Combine a willing and motivated employee with a supportive employer and success is the result. Even with the 2:00 a.m. phone calls.