“ We’ ve spent $ 50,000 on training in the shop alone. We will spend $ 100,000 on training for the entire dealership by the end of the year. It’ s an investment for the company to get our workers to master tech level. They will go to schools across the country,” Ott said.
With the educational opportunities, someone can move through the apprentice, technical and journeyman stages. A journeyman is a skilled worker who has completed an official apprenticeship.
“ More than that would be up to you,” Ott said.“ You would receive pay increases as you move up to the next category.”
The company doesn’ t give raises for time on the job, Ott said. Raises are for how employees apply themselves. The company is looking for good attitude and aptitude.
“ The best applicants come in with a good attitude but might not have much on the technical side,” Ott said.“ If they have an aptitude for mechanical work, they can learn.”
MHC started in the trucking industry in 1975 in Springfield, Mo., as the Murphy-Hoffman Company. It now has 100 locations in the central and southeast regions of the United States with more than 3,100 employees.
The company’ s Springdale location has 61 total employees, with 25 mechanics in the shop working three shifts. The body shop includes eight mechanics working two shifts. Ott said he would like to add a second road service mechanic.
The company also employs truck and parts sales representatives and office staff.
MHC prides itself in providing employees with a safe working environment, supporting team effort and treating workers with courtesy and respect. In return, the company expects quality work and customer service.
Those wishing to apply for a career at MHC can do so by going to mhc. com / careers / find-jobs.
Evans’ goal for his career is clear.“ I plan to keep working here and see where it leads me,” he said.“ I think I can go as far as I want to.”
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