Perhaps the top staffing priority for healthcare facility managers is finding qualified entry-level technicians to staff their departments, and as more older technicians retire, these challenges will only become tougher. But once managers bring new technicians in the door, the next step is to provide essential training to ensure they can do the job effectively and productively.

Providing training also is a proven strategy for engaging and motivating technical staff, and there are many resources available across the field, according to Health Facilities Management. The American Society for Health Care Engineering’s website offers a variety of on-demand learning topics, as well as free, quick training classes that can be completed in 20-30 minutes.

In conjunction with ASHE, Owensboro Community & Technical College offers a Healthcare Facilities Leadership associate degree or diploma and is an option for those seeking a healthcare facilities leadership position or looking for resources to study for the certified healthcare facility manager (CHFM) exam. Owensboro also offers a Healthcare Facilities Technician certificate for those individuals who are just starting their career in health facilities. 

Similar to ASHE, the National Fire Protection Association offers training online, in the classroom and even on-site. Facilities leaders should consider setting up a training class with an expert at their facility and inviting industry professionals in their area to attend to maximize learning and earn continuing education credits. 

Another great option to bring learning directly to employees is a customized training program from Legacy FM. Beginning with focus group assessments, Legacy FM builds custom content based on a system’s job descriptions and specific training needs, including everything from basic facility management skills, equipment troubleshooting and regulatory compliance to business and soft skills. 

Click here to read the article.