Maintenance and engineering managers have struggled for years to find enough entry-level technicians to replace the many older technicians who are retiring from their departments.
Responding to the need, two-year colleges and even high schools have expanded their offerings related to the trades. A select few high schools have made a much deeper commitment.
Newark, N.J., is planning to transform a former hospital into a high school where students can study architecture and train to become plumbers and electricians, according to a recent post on Latest News Post. The School of Architecture and Interior Design is expected to open September 2022. The plan adds another career-focused high school to the Newark Public Schools roster, in line with Superintendent Roger León’s emphasis on preparing students for professions, as well as college.
The new high school will offer concentrations in architecture and skilled trades, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Students who focus on the trades will apprentice under the district’s own skilled workers, officials said. The school will also offer a course for seniors who want to earn New Jersey real estate licenses.
Dan Hounsell is editor of Facility Maintenance Decisions.
