A new Custodial and Grounds Services training program is creating pathways for under-represented groups to become groundskeepers. 

In support of the university’s diversity, equity and inclusion goals, the program enables current custodians to gain the work experience needed to qualify for a job as a groundskeeper, a classification where minorities and women are traditionally under-represented.

Highlighting the success of the program, trainees Aubry Mcintyre, Bob Deline and Guillermo Rugamas were all recently selected for Groundskeeper II positions. I caught up with them in the field to talk about their experiences with the program. While the three of them arrived at the doorstep of the program in diverse ways, they share one passion: they love working outside.

“I was interested in the program as soon as I saw the job description and responsibilities,” said Aubry Mcintyre. “The opportunity to work outside, doing hands-on work, alongside a knowledgeable team was an exciting possibility and one that I knew I was ready to begin. We learned so much in our time in the program and I continue to build on my knowledge in my new position as a GKII.” 

The job duties of a groundskeeper include pruning shrubs and small trees, controlling weeds, mulching beds, picking up litter and emptying trash containers, removing ice and snow, and operating a wide range of equipment.

Five custodians are selected for each 8-month training period. Since the training periods overlap, at any given time 10 custodians are receiving training and experience with Grounds Services. Grounds Specialists are heavily involved in conducting the training and the trainees receive performance evaluations at 4 and 8 months of each training period.

“I am just beginning my career at the university but I am working on building a strong foundation,” Aubry said. “Grounds has allowed me to share my skills with the team and to learn new skills that I know I will carry with me throughout my journey at the university.”

Written by Rob Doletzky