SJVC’s Franklin Saavedra talks Maintenance Technician careers on Imagine America Radio

Recently, SJVC Division Manager, Franklin Saavedra, was a guest on Imagine America Radio, where the focus was on certificates and diploma programs that are advancing careers in the trades. He also talked about the future of a career as a maintenance technician.

In the episode Saavedra joins hosts, Bob Martin, President and CEO of Imagine American Foundation and Lee Doubleday, Director of Operations, to discuss what is a maintenance technician and what they do on a daily basis.

The conversation begins with a discussion on where a maintenance technician typically works in the industry, maintaining and repairing factory equipment and other industrial machinery. “[They’re] responsible for keeping the facility operating and repairing any problems when they are discovered—before they have a chance to worsen by stopping or reducing the production time,” says Saavedra.

He goes on to say typical duties include electrical and mechanical troubleshooting, understanding equipment and controls, preventative maintenance, and scheduling major repairs in the facility. Saavedra also discusses the importance of education in this line of work and what to look for in a Maintenance Technician program.

“I’m a huge believer in the need for education as technology continues to evolve so rapidly in manufacturing and distribution industries, not only because the technology but the hazards within the occupation itself. Education can help expedite employment and advancement within the industry,” says Saavedra.

You can listen to the full conversation (or read the transcript) here:

Imagine America Radio is a service of the Imagine American Foundation and Imagine America Publishing Company. In the last 20 years, Imagine America has provided scholarship support and tuition assistance to students attending career colleges all across the country.

For more information on SJVC’s Maintenance Technician program, which is offered at five campuses and can be completed in as few as 7 months, click here.