Mower Maintenance: Solving the Staffing Issue





By Mike Fitzpatrick  
OTHER PARTS OF THIS ARTICLEPt. 1: Mower Maintenance Plan Helps Extend Life of FleetPt. 2: Follow Manufacturer's, Warranty Guidelines to Extend Mower Shelf LifePt. 3: Keeping Employees Safe Top Priority of Mower Fleet ManagementPt. 4: Supporting the Mower Fleet With Additional Attachments and AccessoriesPt. 5: This Page


Mowing: Solving The Staffing Issue

The biggest challenge grounds managers face and will continue to face is a lack of qualified workers. As the economy begins to improve and budgets loosen a bit, institutional and commercial facilities are investing in more projects and mowing equipment. But managers are likely to find themselves competing against other potential employers for qualified grounds care staff.

Blue-collar workers have more options as the job market improves, and since mowing crews are often among the first to be cut if top management tightens the budget, workers might be reluctant to take these positions.

To combat this problem, grounds managers need to locate, recruit and retain skilled laborers who can handle multiple types of work throughout the year. Managers also should empower their teams with high-quality equipment, comprehensive training, and a stable and safe work environment.

Operators who are supported by good equipment, capable managers, and proper training are likely to be happier and more efficient, and they are more likely to stay with the department for the long term.

— Mike Fitzpatrick




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  posted on 11/22/2014   Article Use Policy




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