Date: August 2, 2024
News - Diesel Mechanic Development Day: A Success in Fostering Professional Growth
On June 13th, apprentices from Maryland and Virginia gathered for the first Diesel Mechanic Development Day at Chaney’s flagship location in Waldorf, Maryland. The event, aimed at enhancing the skills and camaraderie among diesel mechanic apprentices, proved to be a success, with participants engaging in sessions designed to promote effective communication, accountability, and professional collaboration in the workplace.
Among the attendees was Nevaeh Burnette, a diesel mechanic and a four-month fleet maintenance employee based out of Charles City, Virginia. For Nevaeh, this event was more than just another day of training; it was an opportunity for personal and professional growth. “Meeting the other apprentices and hearing what they were doing” was one of her highlights, as it allowed her to gain insights into different experiences from Maryland to Virginia.
One of the most significant takeaways for Nevaeh was the value of mentorship. She noted, “Seeing the difference in mentorship across state lines” enriched her understanding of the various approaches to learning and growth within the Chaney culture. The collaboration between Maryland and Virginia apprentices not only showcased diversity, but emphasized the extensive network of resources available to apprentices.
“I’ve never been to Maryland,” Nevaeh shared, reflecting on the experience of visiting a different plant. “Being able to see the difference of plants was a very cool experience. Our closest plant is 45 minutes away, and the furthest we take care of is two hours away. This really puts in perspective how big Chaney is.” Such exposure contributes to a broader understanding of the industry and the importance of our Chaney community.
The event was marked not only by informative sessions but also by engaging icebreaker activities led by Human Resources intern Sydney Byrd. Nevaeh appreciated these efforts, stating that they were “Fun and a great way to build bonds with the other apprentices who were there.” This sense of camaraderie was appreciated, as participants from various cohorts mingled and formed connections to help serve them well in their future careers.
A standout moment for Nevaeh was the DISC training session led by Donna Kopf, Chaney’s Training Manager. This training introduced apprentices to the DISC model, which categorizes personality traits into four main types: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Compliance. “Donna is so, so knowledgeable when it comes to DISC training. She taught us how to properly interact with others who may have a different letter sequence than you,” Nevaeh explained. Learning to adapt communication styles is essential, especially in a diverse work environment where collaboration between different personalities is crucial.
From learning effective communication techniques to understanding personality dynamics, Diesel Mechanic Development Day offered invaluable tools for growth. “It’s beneficial to know how to talk to different shop foremen, or when you are in an office setting,” Burnette emphasized.
Diesel Mechanic Development Day was more than an event; it was a stepping stone towards fostering a strong community of skilled workers dedicated to their craft. With hopes to host Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship Days several times a year, the commitment to employee development is clear. As Nevaeh Burnette and her fellow apprentices return to their workplaces, they do so with newfound knowledge, strong connections, and a broader perspective on their professional journeys.
