The “E” in Mid-coast Energy Systems Inc. might also stand for “education” as the company has always been devoted to the ongoing training of its employees.
On Feb. 18 MCES recognized the completion of a new expansion project by holding a weekly staff meeting in the new classroom of the on-campus technical training facility. While this newly added structure now provides space for a much-needed larger crew room, its main function is that of a training facility.
It will further realize the company’s mission to provide the highest quality plumbing, heating and electrical installation and service to its customers. Mid-coast Energy strives to stay on the cutting edge of their trades, with professional expertise and superior workmanship.
With the addition of more offered services, advances in equipment sophistication and a growing client base, company president Bill Morgner, along with partners Dave Gamage and Ron Russell, felt that the timing was right.
Morgner, who is a longtime proponent of technicians being multi-licensed, explains, “This will greatly benefit our employees and ultimately our customers. The better the coordination of the trades, the less expensive it becomes for the homeowner.
“Technicians who can understand the entire project whether they do a small part or a large part of the job, are much better at eliminating problems before they become really costly.”
MCES Installation Manager John Blodgett was project manager, attending planning board meetings and overseeing the renovations. A retired U.S. Marine, Blodgett now acts as education director for the new facility.
The list of courses that Blodgett has developed is extensive and ranges from core training courses such as heating, plumbing, electrical, and air conditioning, to more advanced courses in troubleshooting and repair of complex oil, gas, and solar thermal equipment.
Part of the curriculum will also include complementary courses such as listening skills, time management and customer service.
“Some of the employees have already come forward and volunteered to teach a course in their trade,” Blodgett said. “It’s had an enthusiastic reception from the crew.”
When asked how cross-training might help MCES customers, Blodgett said, “Suppose a customer has a simple leaky toilet, and one of our plumbers is there servicing the leak, but while he’s there the lights dim, or the customer complains of another electrical problem…. If our plumber is also a trained and licensed electrician, we can help the customer on the spot without an additional service call. This provides more comprehensive service, resulting in more convenience, time saved and equally important, saves the customer money.”
Additional plans for the facility include industry events, special demonstrations by vendors and product representatives.
An Architect-Contractor Breakfast is planned for mid-spring. Now in their 33rd year of business, Mid-Coast Energy Systems is located on Rt. 1 in Damariscotta.
