By Elizabeth Gerber
Preparing for a career in forklift operation requires a bit of heavy lifting, in the form of attaining training, certification and even some physical strength. Forklift operators must be able to push, pull and lift at least 75 pounds on a recurring ba-sis.
Goodwill of North Georgia’s Forklift Training Program (goodwillng.org/Get-Training/Training-Programs/Forklift.aspx) allows individuals to gain certification to work as a forklift operator in two to four weeks. The job readiness program in-cludes training led by Toyota Forklifts of Atlanta, CPR/First Aid training and job placement assistance from the Goodwill of North Georgia Career Centers in De-catur, Duluth, Woodstock, Athens and Oakwood.
Upon completion of the four-week program, Tyniesha Brown earned her license and certification, and landed a new job. Brown, who previously was working in baggage claim after at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, was hired as a warehouse worker for a logistics company through Delta Global Staffing.
Q: Why did you enroll in this program?
A: The temp agency [Delta Global Staffing] asked if I had experience working in a warehouse or a license, which I didn’t. So, I enrolled in the program to make it easier to get a job.
Q: What did you learn from the program?
A: I learned how to ride a forklift, how to get and keep a job, how to build a re-sume and interview skills. I also got CPR certified.
Q: What types of opportunities did the program give you?
A: It helped me find a job.
Q: What type of person does it take to work in this field?
A: I would say it takes an outgoing personality.
Q: Are participants guaranteed a job upon completion of the program?
A: No, but they are willing to help. Delta Global Staffing had a job fair through Goodwill and that’s where I got this opportunity.
About the Author
