and what do we see their graduat- ing students lacking in,” Owen said. “They are now using an apti- tude program that helps direct stu- dents to what they are good at and applicable fields and careers.” Through Griffin’s construction teacher, Walter Preston, Owen met Sanchez when he was a junior. His conversations with Preston about Sanchez’s skills and aptitude – plus the dedication and focus Sanchez showed in his SkillsUSA competi- tions – convinced Owen he would be a viable new hire for his com- pany. Preston also guided Owen to another Griffin graduate – Terry Collier – and both were hired at the same time, last June. Both Sanchez and Collier began their apprenticeships in January 2019. “To enroll in our appren- ticeship program, one must be an employee for six months,” Owen said. “We don’t want to begin investing in them if they decide they don’t want to do this.” Sanchez and Collier – as well as new hire Oscar Macias, a recent graduate from another area high school – are ambassadors of a sort, going to high school Discovery Days to share their experiences in the tile trade with peers. And Sanchez was on-hand this year at SkillsUSA, sharing his knowledge and experiences with those who are just starting to consider tile as a career. He explained proper tile- setting techniques and discussed what happens day-to-day on the job. “He got to talk to some of the kids – and knew some of them who came out from his high school,” Owen said. C.C. Owen strictly does com- mercial work, and employs 30 field personnel. Owens is always on the lookout for high-qual- ity hires, to counter turn- over that seems endemic to the trade, and grow his company from within. In addition to good pay and a comprehensive package of benefits, Owen has insti- tuted twice-yearly company outings to foster camaraderie among employees and fami- lies. His volunteerism at the high schools and for CEFGA means he keeps giving back to the community, even as the community fuels his crew with fresh new talent. TRAINING & EDUCATION –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2018 SkillsUSA competition winners (l. to r.): Nathaniel Selby, Shaw High School, 3rd place; Martin Sanchez, Griffin High School, 1st place; Christian Mendoza, Kennesaw Mountain High School, 2nd place. Sanchez is now in the apprenticeship program at C.C. Owen Tile Company. 66 TileLetter | July 2019