Mercedes offers job training: Is this an answer to the worker ‘shortage’?

Mercedes technician Steven Liu bends over the engine of an S 550 at Mercedes-Benz of Marietta in Atlanta. (Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com)

Credit: Curtis Compton

Credit: Curtis Compton

Mercedes technician Steven Liu bends over the engine of an S 550 at Mercedes-Benz of Marietta in Atlanta. (Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com)

Steven Liu bent over the engine, leaning beneath the open hood of an S 550 model 2015 Mercedes.

A technician at Mercedes-Benz of Marietta, Liu was examining a vehicle that sells for about $120,000 — roughly twice the median household income in metro Atlanta — and is equipped with all manner of Mercedes technology.

There was a problem with one key component this humid and hot afternoon in July.

“The air conditioning isn’t working,” said Liu, 26.

On an average workday, the dealership handles roughly 45 vehicles needing maintenance and repair. It’s a lot of work, which is why the dealership staff includes 22 technicians.

A number of companies complain about a shortage of skilled, blue collar workers. Yes, they say, the get applicants, but not people who can do the job right.

Critics have said those words sometimes ring hollow: Why don’t those companies offer higher wages? Why don’t they train workers in the needed skills?

Read THE FULL STORY ABOUT MERCEDES TRAINING at myajc.com.

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