On Tuesday, January 30, 2024, Ms. Gross and Mrs. Sutton’s Life Skills Class went to Bacon Companies to explore possible careers in the excavation industry. Mr. Michael Bacon and his crew graciously welcomed us to visit his extensive and impressive facility for students to witness firsthand what a day in the life of working for such an operation would entail. Mr. Bacon and his crew explained the details of checking the machinery prior to operation. This ensures proper function and prevents damaging and possibly destroying this expensive machinery. Mr. Bacon explained how much each piece of equipment cost to purchase, maintain, register, inspect and insure and the importance of proper care. The crew reviewed safety measures and consequences for not following these procedures throughout the workday.
Mr. Bacon also discussed his expectations for his employees. These expectations include being on time, dressing appropriately for work and weather, following all safety procedures and being respectful of the overall work environment. Respectful behavior toward bosses and other crew members and customers as well as caring properly for all company machinery and property is expected at all times. Employees are also expected to follow directions as they are given and ask any clarifying questions when needed to avoid costly mistakes. He explained that he is willing to train employees who meet those expectations and are eager to learn. They must be willing to invest the time and put forth the effort to properly develop the skill set to properly operate the machinery. He also explained that he is currently experiencing a shortage of applicants for open positions as are many companies in the Capital Region and throughout the country.
Then came the big show! The students were VERY excited to see the crane lift a very heavy plow, the skid-steer loader and the bucket loader placing dirt into the dump truck. The dump truck then dumped the gravel back out again. Several students indicated a keen interest in this career field. Many indicated exactly which piece of equipment they would be interested in learning how to operate!
A big thank you to Mr. Bacon, his staff and crew! We are looking into more visitations for other classes and the possibility of educational opportunities and career training in the future.
[submitted by Mrs. Gross]
Photos below:
