As self-proclaimed Chattanooga enthusiasts, my husband and I are excited about the Chattanooga 2.0 initiative to improve public education across Hamilton County.
We have seen firsthand some of the challenges with education and workforce. Five years ago, we opened our own plumbing business. It grew much faster than we imagined. We have struggled to hire people to keep up with demand. It’s been almost impossible to find skilled applicants. These are good jobs, making as much as $45,000 a year for experienced plumbers with no college needed. However, we can’t find locals with plumbing repair experience, problem-solving and customer service skills, and the desire to work full time.
Our best applicants come from out of town, which tells me that there are available and skilled plumbers out there, just not in the Chattanooga area. Why? What’s the problem?
We want to start an apprenticeship program to train more people in this field. We want to be part of the solution. I would encourage our friends and neighbors to find their own way to get involved in the 2.0 program – how can you contribute toward a solution?
Sarah Mattson
Riverside Plumbing