NEFBA is pleased to announce Penelope Geismar is its new training director, effective Sept. 16. Geismar, formerly the publisher of the award-winning magazine Florida Homebuyer Jacksonville, served on the NEFBA board of directors since 2004, and was active on the Sales and Marketing Council and the Remodelers Council.
As training director, Geismar’s focus is the Apprenticeship Program. The Apprenticeship Program provides comprehensive training to qualified individuals pursuing careers in the construction trades including electrical, plumbing, carpentry and heating and air-conditioning. In addition to on-the-job training, apprentices attend classes at either Florida State College at Jacksonville or St. Johns River State College. Apprentice tuition and salaries are paid by participating NEFBA members.
“Penelope’s knowledge of the industry, the association and our members will be invaluable as she looks at new and creative ways to strengthen the program,” said Executive Director Corey Deal. “We’re relying on her expertise and proven track record for getting results to help us enlist more employers and qualified apprentices.”
Keith Ward, Thomas May Construction Co., is NEFBA’s training vice president. Five Thomas May Construction Company employees are graduates of NEFBA’s apprentice program.
“Apprenticeship programs face major challenges today,” Ward said. “Young people are attracted to trade programs that are shorter in duration than NEFBA’s program, and there just aren’t as many opportunities as there have been in the past. NEFBA members help by hiring and sponsoring apprentices. We are pleased to have Penelope heading up our efforts to meet the challenges and promote and strengthen the program.”