Podcast Summary: Dirt Talk by BuildWitt – Episode DT 364: Developing the Next Generation of Technicians with Grif Reome of Komatsu

Introduction

In Episode DT 364 of Dirt Talk by BuildWitt, host Aaron Witt engages in an in-depth conversation with Brad (presumably Grif Reome, based on the episode title) from Komatsu. The discussion centers around the critical need to develop the next generation of technicians in the construction and mining industries. They explore various facets of workforce development, including recruitment challenges, diversity and inclusion, international perspectives, and the evolving technological landscape.

1. Passion: The Heartbeat of the Industry

Aaron opens the conversation by emphasizing that the construction and mining industries are “a labor of love.” He underscores the importance of passion, stating:

“You have to love this because, like, again, like the smell of grease should excite you and if it doesn't, then we gotta have a different conversation” [00:00].

Brad echoes this sentiment, highlighting that technicians’ dedication goes beyond just earning a paycheck. He stresses the need for employers to recognize and support the intrinsic motivations of their workforce.

2. Recruiting the Next Generation: Beyond Paychecks

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the challenges of recruiting new technicians. Brad critiques the common misconception that technicians are solely motivated by financial incentives:

“If we're thinking that they're only here for a paycheck, then we're not even thinking about them in the right way either” [00:32].

Aaron and Brad explore the necessity of understanding what drives individuals to join and stay in the industry. They advocate for storytelling that highlights the real, hands-on experiences of technicians to attract like-minded individuals passionate about the work.

3. The California Construction Landscape

Aaron shares his personal background growing up in Auburn, California, detailing his firsthand experience with heavy civil work through his father's operations. They discuss the rapid growth in areas like Sacramento and the resulting housing developments:

“You get on i5 north pretty much from i5 Sacramento all the way up towards like Chico and Redding and stuff. It's all road, you see. Just road job after road job there too” [05:56].

This segment provides context on the regional dynamics influencing the construction industry and the increasing demand for skilled technicians.

4. Diversity and Inclusion: Women in Technician Roles

A pivotal topic is the inclusion of women in technician roles. Aaron highlights Komatsu’s initiatives to empower female technicians, noting:

“It's 100% female technician class that Foreo's had. Did like all the sponsorship as well as getting them through the program too” [16:35].

Brad praises global efforts, particularly in Sweden and Australia, where women constitute a significant portion of the workforce in technical roles. They discuss how creating an inclusive environment not only diversifies the workforce but also enriches the industry with varied perspectives.

5. International Perspectives: Learning from Sweden and Beyond

The conversation shifts to international comparisons, focusing on how countries like Sweden manage workforce development differently. Aaron shares insights from his time abroad, observing:

“The union presence was definitely different… you have to ask every single question in the world to help them understand” [25:00].

Brad adds that countries with a consensus-driven culture foster better communication and collaborative problem-solving, which can be a model for the U.S. industry to emulate.

6. Changing Workforce Dynamics and Generational Shifts

Both speakers address the evolving attitudes of younger generations towards work-life balance and job satisfaction. Brad reflects on observing older generations’ work habits and the necessity for the industry to adapt:

“How do we figure this out? It's like, well, you better figure it out” [20:13].

Aaron agrees, emphasizing that the industry must move beyond outdated expectations and create environments that align with modern workers' values and lifestyles.

7. Technological Advancements and the Future of the Industry

The discussion delves into the technological transformations reshaping construction and mining, such as autonomous and electric-driven trucks. Brad explains:

“Electric trucks only work fully autonomous because you can't manage the battery” [36:01].

Aaron elaborates on how these advancements will revolutionize job sites, enhancing efficiency but also necessitating new skills and training paradigms for technicians.

8. Workforce Development and Training Programs

A critical component of the conversation is the role of training programs in bridging the skills gap. Aaron shares his experience with Caterpillar’s Think Big program:

“Tens of thousands of people have graduated… I'm one of tens of thousands of people that have gone through that program too” [16:02].

They discuss the importance of expanding such programs, collaborating with educational institutions, and incorporating diverse recruitment strategies to cultivate a robust pipeline of skilled technicians.

9. Leadership and Communication in the Industry

Brad and Aaron highlight the essential role of effective leadership and communication within organizations. Brad emphasizes that leaders must invest in people, fostering a culture of respect and continuous development:

“If you're an employer, you're the reason that attitude. And it bums me out” [39:15].

Aaron concurs, advocating for intentional leadership training that equips leaders with the necessary soft skills to support and retain their workforce.

10. Building and Retaining the Talent Pipeline

The speakers explore strategies for not only recruiting but also retaining talented technicians. Aaron stresses the importance of creating a supportive culture and providing continuous growth opportunities:

“If you have people expressing enthusiasm, they're likely to stay and bring others with them” [various timestamps].

Brad adds that internal referrals and cultivating a sense of ownership among employees can significantly enhance retention rates.

11. Practical Advice for Aspiring Technicians

Towards the episode's conclusion, Aaron and Brad offer actionable advice for individuals aspiring to enter the technician field:

• Persistence in Job Applications: Aaron advises, “Just because the company says that they don't have a job posted doesn't mean they're not hiring. Keep asking” [95:45].

• Continuous Learning: Emphasizing the availability of online resources, Aaron encourages self-education and dedication.

• Embracing Challenges: Brad highlights that being a technician involves solving complex, unpredictable problems, which requires a genuine passion for the work beyond financial incentives.

12. Closing Thoughts and Future Directions

In their final remarks, Aaron and Brad reiterate the importance of shifting industry mindsets to value and respect technicians. They advocate for:

• Increased Visibility and Recognition: Promoting the vital role technicians play in keeping operations running smoothly.

• Cultural Shifts: Moving away from outdated stereotypes and embracing a more inclusive and supportive industry culture.

• Collaborative Efforts: Encouraging OEMs, dealers, and industry leaders to work together in building a sustainable and dynamic workforce.

Notable Quotes

• Aaron Witt: “You have to love this because, like, again, like the smell of grease should excite you and if it doesn't, then we gotta have a different conversation” [00:00].

• Brad: “The industry has become like our industry of choice for individuals” [42:02].

• Brad: “Have you had that conversation? Have you talked to them? Yeah, well, they said this” [99:59].

• Aaron Witt: “I think the timing is really exciting with the change in our CEO as well as with. With the changes in the organization and we're prepping for like a training super cycle” [101:31].

Conclusion

Episode DT 364 of Dirt Talk by BuildWitt offers a comprehensive exploration of the challenges and opportunities in developing the next generation of technicians in the construction and mining sectors. Aaron Witt and Brad provide valuable insights into recruitment strategies, the importance of passion and dedication, the necessity of embracing diversity, and the pivotal role of leadership and continuous training. Their conversation underscores the need for a cultural shift within the industry to attract, nurture, and retain skilled technicians who are passionate about their craft and committed to advancing the field.