In this episode of Covered By NewLeaf, host Sean Hicks, CEO of New Leaf Service Contracts, sits down with Adam Butcher, Director of Fred’s Appliance Academy, and Chad Phillipp, the academy’s lead instructor.
They dive into the history of the academy, the critical need for new technicians in the appliance industry, and how their hands-on training program is shaping the next generation of trade professionals.
From learning basic electrical theory to mastering complex refrigeration repairs, Adam and Chad explain how their curriculum prepares students from all walks of life for high-paying careers. They also discuss the importance of "soft skills" like customer service and professional courtesy, which are often the deciding factors in a technician's success.
Chapters:
0:00 – Introduction
1:21 – History of Fred’s Appliance Academy
3:53 – Growth and International Reach
4:15 – Current Course Offerings: On-site and Online
5:46 – Class Sizes and Learning Philosophy
6:48 – Real-World Experience: Live Tech Rides
8:00 – Independence and Vocational School Licensing
9:55 – Funding and Student Sponsorship11:41 – Marketing and Social Media Success
14:02 – Meet Instructor Chad Phillipp
18:02 – Teaching Soft Skills and Customer Relations
21:54 – Inside the Classroom and Lab Environment
24:55 – Hands-On Training with Major Brands
31:18 – Student Demographics and Career Changes
34:43 – Income Potential for Appliance Technicians
37:05 – Small Business Ownership and Consulting
41:46 – The On-Campus Experience and Housing
45:34 – Success Stories and Challenges
Website: www.fredsacademy.com
Phone: 1-800-781-181420
Email: [email protected]
Tags:#ApplianceRepair #TradeSchool #FredsApplianceAcademy #NewLeaf #Podcast #CareerInTrades #TechnicalTraining #SmallBusiness #VocationalEducation #ApplianceTechnician