Chuck Rodgers means it when he says that he’d hire someone with an industry recognized credential over someone without a credential.
Rodgers is operational superintendent at S.W. Rodgers, a site development contractor in Northern Virginia. Rodgers needs a workforce that’s serious, focused, and safety-conscious because operating heavy machinery is work that can be dangerous.
“Work ethic is everything,” says Rodgers. “Workers who train for their credentials through the FastForward program…they have an understanding of safety through the day-to-day operations, so they fit right in. And if they’re going to take the trouble to do the program and get certified, they’ve shown they have the work ethic, and that’s a huge plus for them, and for us as the employer.”
Rogers recently hired workers who trained for their heavy equipment certification at Lord Fairfax Community College.
“These guys have been great,” said Rodgers. “They took the step, they took the class. This is what they want to do for a living, and that means a lot.”
Looking back on his hires, Rodgers has no regrets.
“I am glad I hired FastForward graduates.”