Power Forward with CFESA Certifications!
By – The Editor
CFESA (Commercial Food Equipment Service Association) educational certifications have long been one of the pillars of foodservice technician development at General Parts Group and indeed the wider industry. Four certifications are offered by CFESA, electrical, refrigeration, gas, and steam. A technician who earns one of these certifications is known as a CFESA certified technician. A technician who earns three becomes a master certified technician.
For many years General Parts has been encouraging and supporting its technicians through the certification process. However, in 2021 one branch that did particularly well towards the end of the year was our Boise branch, who had three of their technicians pass certifications in December alone. We took some time to get feedback from the team in Boise to share with you, and to learn more about the certification process and why they hold them in high regard.
About the CFESA Certification Process
Quentin – Passed Steam to become master certified.
Q: How much time did it take for you to prepare for your Steam exam?
A: 1 month of intense studying. But it was definitely worth it. I have been a tech with GP for over 5 years and I am still learning every day. Studying the CFESA books and taking the test just enhances my knowledge.
Chris – Passed his second certification in Electrical.
Q: How do you think CFESA certifications help you on a day-to-day basis?
A: I have used what I learned in the book and during the test every day. It is very helpful and makes me even more confident in my work.
Jeff A– Passed his fourth and final certification.
Q: What motivated you to take all four certifications?
A: Financial Incentive* and bragging rights. LOL. I am motivated to push myself to one day become a lead tech. The more I know the more I can help others.
Finally, we caught us with Master Certified Boise Lead Tech Geoff S and asked him what he sees as a benefit of having had his team pass these certifications.
“As the Lead Technician it is part of the job to be able to support my team when needed with technical help. I have noticed a decline in calls to me for support. It is great to surround yourself with qualified and confident team members. I am very proud of all of them for taking these steps in becoming an even bigger asset to the General Parts team.”
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*General Parts technicians are financially rewarded for passing CFESA certifications with a permanent increase to their hourly rate.