Abstract
A shortage of quality, entry-level construction employees has prompted Patio Enclosures, Inc., North America's largest producer of custom sunrooms, to establish an innovative Apprentice Program. The goal of the program is to attract, train, retain and reward men and women who want long-term, high-paying careers in the construction industry. The Apprentice Program is a motivational training system that rewards employees with promotions and pay raises for reaching certain achievements during their career. Program entrants receive salary and title increases as they move through various construction skill levels. These employees can then also become salespeople, installation supervisors, office supervisors or branch managers as these career opportunities become available within the company. As an added benefit, employees who work at Patio Enclosures, Inc. for one year become part owners of the $73 million company through participation in the Employee Stock Ownership Plan established two years ago. This article describes the company’s unique program and the dramatic drop in turnover that the program has achieved.
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