RECRUITING NOTES New Apprenticeship Program at SAM

Hiring experienced and skilled workers is one of the biggest challenges in the workforce, today. We recognize this challenge as the talent shortage, which refers to the disparity between what we, as employers, need and what candidates have to offer, specifically the desired skillset. Several factors affect this shortage, such as, low labor participation rates and declining birth rates, but the question remains, How are we going to address this?

Apprenticeship programs can be especially effective in addressing the talent shortage, as they are great ways to train and develop new talent.

At the end of March 2023, the Department of Labor awarded SAM approval for the Geomatics Technician (Survey and Mapping) apprenticeship program. The initial pilot of our program will only be available in Texas, but SAM will obtain approvals in other states as the program matures.

The apprenticeship is a two-year program at SAM, offering on-the-job training, competitive hourly pay, and a Journeyman Surveyor Certification upon completion, certified by the U.S. Department of Labor. Individuals are hired on as full-time employees, and current SAM employees are welcome to apply for the program as well.

We are still in the infancy stage of the program, but we are already seeing how fruitful this will be for, not just SAM, but the geospatial industry. Our apprenticeships will allow our employees to progress in their careers quicker, while obtaining the training and certifications needed for their roles. Employees can also gain college credit while in the program, thus reducing or even eliminating the burden of student loans.

Surveyors are in demand like no other profession, and the talent shortage is a real problem affecting companies across our industry. But the good news is there's a solution: Through apprenticeships, we can equip individuals with the skills and expertise they need to build successful careers and help drive economic growth for years to come. We're excited to see the positive impact our apprenticeship program will have on our employees and recruitment efforts.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Kelli Howard at khoward@sam.biz

Benefits of apprenticeship and how we will evaluate success:

1. GAIN PRACTICAL SKILLS:

The apprenticeship enables individuals to acquire practical skills and experience in the geomatics and geospatial industry. SAM has customized this training to meet the specific requirements of our services and projects. Throughout the program, apprentices will work with our geomatics team and get hands-on experience with a variety of tasks, including:

• Collecting angles and elevations used for construction and map making.

• Utilizing advanced technology and surveying equipment.

• Taking notes and learning how to sketch drawings and read plans.

• Drafting in AutoCAD and performing records research and quality control.

2. ENTICES APPLICANTS:

At SAM, our apprenticeship program has the power to attract new talent, especially younger individuals looking to begin or continue a career in a skilled trade. Full-time and paid apprenticeship opportunities can be a compelling point for job seekers. Offering this at SAM demonstrates our commitment to training and development and fosters a dedication to learning.

3.

IMPROVES TALENT RETENTION:

Apprenticeships also allow current employees to advance in their careers by helping add additional skills. SAM will continue to invest in our employee’s skills, and if this program interests them, we want it to be known that we’re prepared to provide the means for them to grow in their careers.

4.

BRIDGE SKILLS GAPS:

When candidates lack the qualifications needed to become something as specific as a land surveyor, it certainly contributes to our talent shortage. These programs can address the skill gaps in geomatics and the geospatial industry. With targeted skill training, the apprenticeship program at SAM will play a pivotal role in guaranteeing that we obtain the competent workforce necessary to accomplish our business goals.