The public sector is experiencing a significant challenge as "knowledge workers" retire in large numbers and there are few people qualified and ready to take their place.
Sure, police and fire wear the nifty uniforms and are often easily recognized as "heroes" by the community. While the "unsung heroes" in Public Works go about their everyday business. Nearly invisible to the general public, it's usually when the toilet doesn't flush, the water doesn't flow, the lights won't come on, the streets aren't plowed or a disaster strikes, that people realize how much they depend on Public Works each and every day.
Could YOU inspire someone that might be interested in serving the public? I recently talked with Mike Colestock at the Hennepin Technical College and asked him a few questions about the education program he helped create to give people a "leg up" on the knowledge curve.
The program was started
about 7 years ago to prepare people for entry level work in public works
agencies. Unlike law enforcement or firefighting, public works is much
less visible to the public. Many of the services public works personnel
perform are “behind the scenes” but absolutely vital to our quality of life.
What is the job market out
there for PW workers both entry level and more advanced?
The next several years are going to see a wave
of retirements – not only in public works but in all employment sectors.
This is an excellent time to enter the public works field and, for those
already there, to prepare for leadership responsibilities.
What could they expect for
a salary range?
Salaries vary by agency
and are generally set by collective bargaining agreements. That said, pay
rates are posted with job openings so candidates have that information in
advance.
Why would someone want a job in PW?
For people who like to
solve problems, work independently and who don’t want to be “chained to a
desk”, public works offers an excellent career path. It is also one of
those careers where employees know they make a difference; their work has a
direct impact on the well-being of those they serve.
People who do well in this
field are those who enjoy having a new challenge every day, are self-starters
and who like to solve problems and think independently. Public works jobs
are interesting because no two days are the same.
What are they going to
study?
Student’s in HTC’s Public Works
program will learn about the function of public works agencies in local
government, different disciplines inside the profession and job seeking and
interviewing skills. There is also a heavy hands on component featuring
practical skills public works employees use every day including small engine
repair, HVAC systems, basic plumbing and park maintenance.
Who can they go to for
questions?
For more information contact Mike
Colestock at 952-995-1334 or email him at mike.colestock@hennepintech.edu
By: Cheryl Brennan
Loss Control Field Services Manager
By: Cheryl Brennan
Loss Control Field Services Manager
