Lead Custodian Bernardo Calon (shown above) has a much broader understanding of how management in the custodial system at UCSF operates thanks to his participation in the new Training Opportunity Program.
“I’m only halfway through my training but I can say that I have learned a lot about the duties and responsibilities of an assistant superintendent,” Calon said. “It’s a challenging job that requires patience, understanding, and due diligence. With help and guidance from Marielena, I know that I’m on the right track.”
Calon is working with Custodial Assistant Superintendent Marielena Contreras in the new pilot program to better understand her role and responsibilities. “This program is important because it gives employees interested in pursuing a management position the opportunity to learn and grow,” she said. “It will open doors and benefit our department by promoting employees who already understand our operation.”
Contreras said it’s important for employees to see that opportunities exist for them to develop their careers. “Nothing is more inspiring than being able to see one of our frontline staff move up as it lets other employees realize that they can grow as well.”
Associate Director of Facilities Services, Felipe Rubio, said the new program was launched in fall 2022. “It came about through conversations with staff and their interest in career development within the organization. It sparked a conversation which led to the idea of having our frontline staff learn directly from our superintendents and lead custodians,” he said. “The program is still new, and we are looking to improve it along the way. The training program is a six-month, hands-on experience with the hopes of potential career opportunities while developing within.”
While Contreras (photographed, left) is helping train dayshift employees, Lead Custodian Jose Beltran is training Senior Custodian Jorge Castaneda. The training program is designed to learn general functions of assistant superintendent and lead custodian roles.
Participants are learning how to use Maximo, the service request system used within Facilities Services along with Service Level Agreements, Standard Operating Procedures, Custodial Routes, and Supplies.
“Not only do they learn Maximo, but they also get hands-on experience in circling back with the customers,” Rubio said. “Participants in this program have a much better understanding of our service level agreements with our customers.”
Rubio said feedback on the Training Opportunity Program has been positive and Facilities Services is now looking to expand future cohorts and training opportunities.
While participation does not guarantee an employee will be promoted, it does give employees the opportunity to develop the minimum qualifications for career advancement.
Calon said his participation has led to a broader understanding of how the custodial system operates at UCSF.
“I’m thankful I learned about the Training Opportunity Program when it was announced to our team during the daily huddle,” he said. “I strongly recommend the program. It provides opportunities for advancement from within the ranks of our custodial staff.”
