After a successful pilot, Keller North America’s field engineer / project engineer development programme has been expanded to give more ambitious entry-level engineers a clear path to career advancement.
The two-year programme – believed to be the largest entry-level training course run by any US geotechnical contractor – is designed to build technical expertise, strengthen leadership skills and prepare engineers for the next step in their career.
Throughout the course, engineers build core competencies in project execution and site operations, geotechnical fundamentals, estimating and cost control, risk management and safety, and leadership and communication.
New field and project engineers are automatically enrolled on the programme and follow a structured learning path with e-learning modules coupled with on-site training. Each participant is supported by a more experienced engineer and also learns about other critical areas such as project management, design and HSEQ.
Towards the end of the programme, engineers will explore their next career step, which could be a promotion to assistant project manager, a chance to specialise in a certain area or move into a field leadership role.
An advantage for Keller and our people
The development programme is led by a strong partnership between engineering/project management and human resources.
“Field and project engineers play a critical role in our business and are often the starting point for careers in geotechnical engineering,” says Joe Cavey, Senior Vice President Major Projects US Foundations. “Part of the programme places emphasis on making sure engineers are exposed to as many techniques as possible and experience the most well-rounded, hands-on training we can provide.
“From there, we see our young engineers grow into leaders who make a significant impact across the organisation. By setting employees up for success from day one, we create an advantage for both Keller and our people."
Shannon Price, Senior HR Business Partner, says the programme helps Keller North America recruit and retain the best young engineers.
“The development programme is an investment in our employees’ careers and in giving them the tools they need to succeed. From a recruitment standpoint, it shows that Keller values development and understands what it takes to grow talent. From a retention perspective, it creates a built-in support system by connecting peers in similar roles with experienced mentors who can help navigate challenges and celebrate wins along the way.”
Following a successful pilot, the development programme was recently adopted in other regions, and further expansion across the division is being explored.