The Michaels Organization has partnered with Interplay Learning, the leading global provider of online and VR training for the essential skilled trades to provide on-demand, simulation-based training courses covering HVAC, plumbing, electrical, appliance repair, and safety.
As a result of the partnership, Michaels will be able to hire new teammates and train them for maintenance in just 18 weeks.
“Training is a critical focus for attracting and retaining entry-level skilled talent into accessible maintenance roles across Michaels’ properties,” said Lea Ann Bowers, Michaels’ Director of Talent Development. “Interplay’s foundational courses and realistic simulation training on field equipment and appliances are crucial for expanding a shrinking talent pool, offering opportunities to build the skills of new hires with little to no experience in the industry.”
In addition, existing employees will be offered advanced courses in order to potentially move up in the field. Jim Loughery, National Vice President of Facilities for The Michaels Organization explained, “These courses give them the knowledge and confidence to identify and repair countless defects that help retain employees by empowering them to obtain more knowledge.”
About Interplay Learning: Since 2016, Austin-based Interplay Learning has been building better training, better careers and better lives for its customers and their employees. Its award-winning online and VR training for the essential skilled trades, including HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical, Solar, Multi-Family Maintenance and Facilities Maintenance workforces, is scalable and more effective than traditional training methods. By leveraging immersive learning technology, Interplay’s customers are able to train and practice hands-on learning from a desktop, phone, tablet or in virtual reality. The result is a highly trained employee who is job-ready in weeks, not years. Its digital learning platform, SkillMill, conveniently turns any space into a training lab with its short video courses, 3D simulations, knowledge checks, coaching and connectivity. Recent accolades include recognition by Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas Awards in the Education, General Excellence and On the Rise categories. Welcome to the next generation of the skilled labor workforce. Visit www.interplaylearning.com to learn more.
