Sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC
In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with Austin Hill and Heather Murphy to discuss Harford Community College’s innovative workforce training programs. From welding and automotive services to customer service and logistics, Hill and Murphy share their passion for equipping individuals with the skills needed to thrive in today’s job market. They explore the importance of mentorship, bridging generational gaps, and fostering a love for hands-on trades. Tune in to hear how these programs are transforming lives and careers in Harford County.
This episode is sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC—your go-to solution for heating and cooling needs. Visit EcoCoolHVAC.com for more details.
Construction | Trades | Harford Community College
Sponsor Message:
This episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett is proudly sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC. Whether you’re battling the sweltering heat of summer or the biting chill of winter, Eco-Cool HVAC has got you covered. Based in Harford County and veteran-owned, their team of experts delivers reliable, efficient heating and cooling services with a personal touch.
Their motto says it all: “When you call, they care and they’re there.” Don’t let unexpected HVAC issues catch you off guard—call 443-324-9714 or visit EcoCoolHVAC.com to ensure your home stays comfortable year-round.
Thank you, Eco-Cool HVAC, for supporting our show and our community!
In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with Austin Hill and Heather Murphy to discuss Harford Community College’s innovative workforce training programs. From welding and automotive services to customer service and logistics, Hill and Murphy share their passion for equipping individuals with the skills needed to thrive in today’s job market. They explore the importance of mentorship, bridging generational gaps, and fostering a love for hands-on trades. Tune in to hear how these programs are transforming lives and careers in Harford County.
This episode is sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC—your go-to solution for heating and cooling needs. Visit EcoCoolHVAC.com for more details.
Construction | Trades | Harford Community College
This episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett is proudly sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC. Whether you’re battling the sweltering heat of summer or the biting chill of winter, Eco-Cool HVAC has got you covered. Based in Harford County and veteran-owned, their team of experts delivers reliable, efficient heating and cooling services with a personal touch.
Their motto says it all: “When you call, they care and they’re there.” Don’t let unexpected HVAC issues catch you off guard—call 443-324-9714 or visit EcoCoolHVAC.com to ensure your home stays comfortable year-round.
Thank you, Eco-Cool HVAC, for supporting our show and our community!
Celebrating 10 Years of the Podcast
Rich reflects on the podcast's journey and expresses gratitude to listeners.
Introducing Austin Hill and Heather Murphy
Guests from Harford Community College join to discuss workforce training initiatives.
Workforce Training Center at Water’s Edge
Overview of the new 7,500-square-foot facility offering non-credit certification programs.
Expanding Program Offerings
Programs include welding, automotive services, logistics, customer service, and construction.
Importance of Soft Skills Training
Emphasizing time management, workplace etiquette, and career goal development for students.
Pipeline Training for Infrastructure Careers
Focus on safety, trenching, and preparing students for careers in utilities and internet installation.
The Growing Demand for Trades
Discussion on the need for skilled workers in trades such as welding and automotive repair.
Highlighting Success Stories
Sharing experiences of students from various backgrounds, including a 75-year-old forklift program graduate.
Funding Opportunities
Grants like the Radcliffe Foundation and Maryland College Promise Scholarship provide financial support for students.
Solar and Alternative Energy Careers
Exploring the rising demand for solar installation technicians and related fields.
Mentorship’s Role in Workforce Development
The importance of mentoring young workers to foster dedication and growth.
Bridging Generational Gaps in the Workplace
Helping employers understand how to engage and retain younger employees.
Encouraging Women in Trades
Discussing women’s success in welding and other hands-on industries.
The Connection Between Passion and Trades
Trades offer an artistic and fulfilling career path for those who love hands-on work.
How to Get Involved
Information on enrolling in programs, accessing funding, and attending upcoming information sessions.
Final Reflections
Rich commends Austin and Heather for their impactful work and highlights the importance of workforce training.
Dr. Austin Hill is a dedicated leader and visionary at Harford Community College, committed to equipping individuals with the skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce. As the driving force behind the college’s workforce training initiatives, Austin focuses on providing hands-on programs that lead to certifications in high-demand fields like welding, automotive repair, logistics, and more. His passion for mentorship and student success shines through in every aspect of his work, as he aims to create opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
Heather Murphy serves as the Workforce Center Associate at Harford Community College, bringing her detail-oriented mindset and business expertise to ensure the seamless operation of the college’s workforce programs. Heather’s dedication to students is evident as she works behind the scenes and directly with individuals to guide them from enrollment to career success. A true advocate for student empowerment, Heather collaborates with local businesses to align training programs with real-world opportunities, making her an invaluable part of the college’s mission to transform lives through education.
Harford Community College (HCC)
Website: harford.edu
Workforce Training Programs and Certifications.
Water’s Edge Workforce Training Center
A 7,500-square-foot facility offering non-credit certification programs in various trades.
Radcliffe Foundation
Provides funding for workforce training programs at Harford Community College.
Maryland College Promise Scholarship
Offers financial aid for non-credit programs at HCC.
Eco-Cool HVAC
Sponsor of the episode.
Website: ecocoolhvac.com
Phone: 443-324-9714.
Canby (Auto Collision Program)
Industry partner providing training and resources for HCC’s automotive collision program.
Leading Edge Training Center
Located in Edgewood, offering specialized workforce programs.
Pipeline Program
Training for careers in infrastructure, including trenching and fiber optic installation.
Thank you for listening to Conversations with Rich Bennett. I hope you enjoyed today's episode and learned something from it as I did. If you'd like to hear more conversations like this, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode. And if you have a moment, I'd love if you could leave a review. It helps us reach more listeners and share more incredible stories.
Don't forget to connect with us on social media or visit our website at conversationswithrichbennett.com for updates, giveaways and more.
Until next time, take care, be kind and keep the conversations going.
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00:00 - Intro & Celebrating 10 Years
01:01 - Catching Up
04:36 - Meeting the Guests
07:01 - Workforce Training Center Overview
10:17 - The Art of Welding
13:20 - Non-Credit Certification Programs
17:22 - Infrastructure & Pipeline Training
19:41 - Funding Opportunities for Students
24:11 - Solar & Alternative Energy Careers
27:08 - Mentorship and Building Community
32:13 - Opportunities for All Ages
38:08 - How to Get Started
41:02 - Closing Remarks
Rich & Wendy 0:00
Hey, everyone is Rich Bennett. Can you believe it? The show is turning ten this year. I am so grateful for each and every one of you who've tuned in, shared an episode, or even joined the conversation over the years. You're the reason that this podcast has grown into what it is today. Together, we shared laughs, tears and moments that truly matter. So I want to thank you for being part of this journey. Let's make the next ten years even better. Coming to you from the Freedom Federal Credit Union Studios. Harford County Living presents conversations with Rich Bennett.
Today, I'm going to get kind.
No, no, no. The truth is.
Rich Bennett 1:01
These Monday. Was it Monday?
Austin Hill 1:04
I.
Rich Bennett 1:05
I just. I had chills all day, and all these kids finally got to me and ended up with a fever that night. I mean, it was going to the next day, but it's day and call.
Heather Murphy 1:18
Oh, yeah.
Rich Bennett 1:18
Yeah.
Heather Murphy 1:19
Month.
Rich Bennett 1:21
Won't go away like. Right. You
Austin Hill 1:22
You take
Rich Bennett 1:23
take
Austin Hill 1:23
a.
Rich Bennett 1:23
a risk to do. Yeah. I mean, all the years I've been doing it, I think this is the first year I've gotten a cold.
Heather Murphy 1:30
I feel like a lot of people have gotten sick this year and.
Rich Bennett 1:32
Yeah.
Heather Murphy 1:33
Like me. I haven't been sick since, like a couple of years ago. And I had.
Austin Hill 1:36
I think.
Heather Murphy 1:38
Running through my feet.
Rich Bennett 1:39
Right. My sister, my son was sick with something.
Heather Murphy 1:42
And
Austin Hill 1:42
And
Heather Murphy 1:42
then.
Austin Hill 1:42
then I finally went to Urgent Care.
Heather Murphy 1:44
They didn't say bronchitis, but I mean, I kind of was like, I mean, it's everybody else. And then.
Rich Bennett 1:48
Hmm. My daughter gets sick all the time. She's always around. She only substitutes as she went full time. Oh, good Lord. I don't know what the hell I would.
Austin Hill 2:01
So.
Rich Bennett 2:02
Huh? Oh.
Heather Murphy 2:05
He's the reason.
Austin Hill 2:07
The thing is, Corey hasn't got. Like, all these years, like in schools. Um, listen. Well, yeah, I
like what we're all.
Heather Murphy 2:17
You're just glad you're like, the only one.
Rich Bennett 2:20
Fine. Eating crappy.
Austin Hill 2:22
I'm a pizza fan. So we have this place.
Rich Bennett 2:24
There's nothing wrong, Peter. I mean.
Austin Hill 2:26
Listen, Mr. Wise Pizza.
Rich Bennett 2:28
I heard they are all.
Austin Hill 2:29
It is so good. It is. Oh, my God.
Rich Bennett 2:32
Better known pepper's from separate.
Austin Hill 2:35
So I think it's a little bit different, Right?
Rich Bennett 2:37
Okay.
Austin Hill 2:37
Like I like support Sapporo because it to me reminds me a lot of like, New York. Stop. He.
Rich Bennett 2:44
Yeah.
Austin Hill 2:45
Glad there's good sauce, good cheese.
Rich Bennett 2:47
Phones in.
Austin Hill 2:48
It feels like it's really good. I like Mr. Wise because the cheese consistency like. She's feeling like pretty much everything like that. Like I've got to put cheese
Rich Bennett 2:58
Right.
Austin Hill 2:58
on. In my fridge at work. I buy the little blocks of cheese just to eat it with like the the Wheat Thins and stuff. So, like, it's a it's a good balance.
Heather Murphy 3:09
Wheat Thins guy, by the way. I saw them yesterday.
Austin Hill 3:11
Really? Oh, yeah. Yeah.
Rich Bennett 3:13
They're going to laugh at me. You know what copies of any lately.
Heather Murphy 3:18
That's what I eat.
Rich Bennett 3:19
Cauliflower pizza.
Austin Hill 3:20
I like cauliflower pizza. Oh, I like it. No, I like especially it's like a good alternative to like, I like let me try something different. But I want to get pizza. I No, cauliflower pizza is good if you go to, um. What is that? By the mall? Uh, and pizza.
Heather Murphy 3:37
Oh, yeah.
Austin Hill 3:37
In pizza.
Rich Bennett 3:39
Oh restaurant has.
Austin Hill 3:40
It's Fridays. The medical office, all You'd be in there like a pizza shop, like.
Rich Bennett 3:45
Okay.
Austin Hill 3:46
You have cauliflower? Yup. Yup. It's impressive. Yep.
Heather Murphy 3:48
God they have.
Rich Bennett 3:49
Huh? Yeah. Usually I'll get it from. All these tags on pub used to make it until Brad sold Town Girl and.
Austin Hill 3:56
Mm.
Rich Bennett 3:57
Because he was vegan. Now, he didn't make it, but oh, me, he says. I started to start. I like that I believe became me become a big fan of Frozen red seedless grapes. I feel like a little kid on top of those things all the time. We all,
Heather Murphy 4:14
Grapes. I've heard fruit. Frozen grapes. I've never actually done it, but I've always had plenty of people like I know I.
Rich Bennett 4:21
Frozen blueberries.
Heather Murphy 4:23
Yeah.
Rich Bennett 4:24
Talk show.
Heather Murphy 4:26
I need to do that.
Rich Bennett 4:28
We really
Austin Hill 4:28
Yeah,
Rich Bennett 4:28
have
Austin Hill 4:29
we're
Rich Bennett 4:29
been
Austin Hill 4:29
good.
Rich Bennett 4:29
recording.
Austin Hill 4:30
Oh, that's good. Oh, they're good. Oh, listen, they can hear what excites us. Yes.
Rich Bennett 4:36
Dr. Austin Hill of Harvard Community College reached out to me.
Heather Murphy 4:40
Couple of months
Rich Bennett 4:40
Months
Heather Murphy 4:40
ago,
Rich Bennett 4:40
ago.
Heather Murphy 4:40
I want to say.
Rich Bennett 4:42
And.
Heather Murphy 4:43
So.
Rich Bennett 4:43
So he wanted to come in and talk about the new workforce trainees.
Heather Murphy 4:45
Center.
Rich Bennett 4:47
So he shows up today and he surprised the living hell out of me.
Heather Murphy 4:51
For.
Rich Bennett 4:51
First he must.
Austin Hill 4:51
Yes.
Rich Bennett 4:53
Okay. Is it okay if Heather comes?
Heather Murphy 4:54
It's
Rich Bennett 4:55
It's like.
Heather Murphy 4:55
like.
Rich Bennett 4:55
Sure. I had no idea.
Austin Hill 4:57
You've done that. Oh.
Rich Bennett 4:58
This other.
Austin Hill 4:58
Yes. Yes.
Rich Bennett 4:59
Wow. So they get out of cars, I get here, and it's Heather Murphy, who I've known. Since COVID.
Heather Murphy 5:07
At least.
Rich Bennett 5:07
That's when I joined the chamber. And just floored me and. Shocked the hell out. Thanks for that Christmas pressie.
Austin Hill 5:16
Listen, every day that she's with me, it truly is a gift and a blessing. She has been a.
Rich Bennett 5:21
She'll keep you on your toes when she.
Austin Hill 5:23
But she is so focused and so, like student oriented and everything that she is is like about students. She's been a wonderful addition to
Rich Bennett 5:30
I guess
Austin Hill 5:30
the 80.
Rich Bennett 5:31
that's what happens when you become a mom.
Austin Hill 5:33
I think even before that, I mean, even dating before that, when we worked together at Edgewood, when I was at Academy of Finance. She's always been a true advocate. And then her y CDs with the chamber. I'm looking to, you know, just enhance entrepreneurship and business oriented students. She truly is an advocate for students within the community.
Rich Bennett 5:55
mean, you were at Edgewood High School.
Heather Murphy 5:57
No. I first met Austin when he was at Edgemont High School. He was one of the first people I met when I came to Hawaii for County.
Rich Bennett 6:04
Okay.
Austin Hill 6:04
Through the Academy of Fine Arts. He served on our board at the Academy of Fine Arts. Yep. Mm hmm. Mm hmm.
Rich Bennett 6:09
So you have the workforce training center waters. That's pretty new, isn't it?
Austin Hill 6:13
Brand new October 1st.
Rich Bennett 6:15
You are really growing this freaking program, aren't
Austin Hill 6:18
Listen.
Rich Bennett 6:18
you?
Austin Hill 6:18
Listen. We are dedicated to ensuring the citizens of Hartford County have the ability to develop skills and trades and make a livable wage and not have to incur a whole lot of student loan debt like myself.
Heather Murphy 6:33
I hear you on that.
Rich Bennett 6:35
Because we were talking about. We've talked about you in the program. Times.
Austin Hill 6:39
Yep. Last time we were talking about automotive
Rich Bennett 6:41
Right.
Austin Hill 6:41
and we were talking about a leading edge training center.
Rich Bennett 6:43
Send Steve some.
Austin Hill 6:47
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Rich Bennett 6:49
You mentioned.
Austin Hill 6:49
Yep.
Rich Bennett 6:50
Joel or
Austin Hill 6:51
Yeah. I saw
Rich Bennett 6:52
I.
Austin Hill 6:52
you.
Rich Bennett 6:53
When I. You were bad.
Austin Hill 6:57
Mm hmm.
Ron Felling.
Rich Bennett 7:01
Right.
Austin Hill 7:02
You? Yep,
Rich Bennett 7:03
think the mood
Austin Hill 7:04
yep,
Rich Bennett 7:04
is.
Austin Hill 7:05
yep.
Rich Bennett 7:05
Many programs are there now.
Austin Hill 7:07
So all in together, I think about ten new programs
Rich Bennett 7:11
Wow.
Austin Hill 7:12
within the county. Yeah.
Heather Murphy 7:14
What's happening?
Austin Hill 7:14
Turn.
Rich Bennett 7:15
So, yeah. Automotive.
Austin Hill 7:17
Automotive collision and automotive service now.
Rich Bennett 7:20
Oh,
Austin Hill 7:20
We have a construction construction pipeline industry 4.0, which is
machining and like little lever mill machines.
Rich Bennett 7:32
really?
Austin Hill 7:33
Yep. We have certified logistics associate and technician. So the logistics feel we still have forklift, we have welding,
Rich Bennett 7:42
Wow.
Austin Hill 7:42
we have welding now as well too. Customer service. Still customer service, focus and oriented. So now we are really focused
Rich Bennett 7:49
Holy.
Austin Hill 7:49
around being a well rounded and you still have the same trades you always had like the electrical and ADC
Rich Bennett 7:55
Right.
Austin Hill 7:55
apprenticeship. Those are both growing. And then A380 Repair Technician program, which is also growing for those hands on trades in the.
Rich Bennett 8:03
I'm glad you guys are doing that because I talked to my one buddy who works at a track company. They're always struggling, trying to find technicians.
Austin Hill 8:13
Oh, absolutely.
Rich Bennett 8:14
It's like he said, the biggest problem is some of them will come on, but they don't want to work. And I think if they went through the process.
Austin Hill 8:24
Absolutely.
Rich Bennett 8:24
It's a different story.
Heather Murphy 8:25
Well, that's where that soft skills training comes in. So that job readiness, customer service class that we have, we
Austin Hill 8:30
Here
Heather Murphy 8:31
with
Austin Hill 8:31
with
Heather Murphy 8:31
a
Austin Hill 8:31
a
Heather Murphy 8:31
lot.
Austin Hill 8:31
lot of individuals going through the.
Heather Murphy 8:33
That larger program if it's ABC. So that teaches a lot of soft skills, time management, you know, just proper etiquette in the workplace, showing up on time, but also helps them develop like what are your career goals? How do we help you build your resume and interviews so you land the job? The soft skills to keep the job. So it's great to pair up to four instances like that.
Rich Bennett 8:51
Wow.
Austin Hill 8:52
And I also think there is a difference in generations. And I think it's important for employers to realize the employees that they have. It's not that they don't want to work, right. Like
Rich Bennett 9:03
Yeah.
Austin Hill 9:03
students want to be able to earn a living, but it's the mentorship piece for students to be able to see the investment and in why, why they matter, why they're important. So if you take a student whose parents are always working, always gone, and they never really had that instilled in them, why the hard work
Rich Bennett 9:22
Yeah.
Austin Hill 9:22
related to see the fruits of the labor that they get there and they just expect like, oh, like I really don't have to invest a lot and things of that nature. And, you know, because at the end of the day, a lot of students want to work on these hands on projects. They like seeing the finished product, like
Rich Bennett 9:34
Yes.
Austin Hill 9:35
it brings them a joy. Right. Right. But they don't know the the labor and the prep work that goes on ahead of time. So we always tell employers, like if you're looking for employees, they're fine, but you're also going to have to mentor them and invest in them, because when you do, they are more likely to want to stay with you and grow with you as a company organization.
Rich Bennett 9:53
So how many do you have any idea how many students as have gone through this before?
Austin Hill 9:58
To date through Ratcliffe, we've awarded over 150 scholarships and have like three or four years. The water's edge alone. I think the report I said was 32 since the month of October. Welding is by far our most popular program.
Rich Bennett 10:17
Come and take me away.
Austin Hill 10:19
So that was going on.
Rich Bennett 10:21
Well, I mean, for my my understanding is
is like a fallen art.
Austin Hill 10:30
It is. It is. It is. And you truly have to be an artist to be able to match those beads and how sturdy and reinforced it is. The joke is, if you ever drive by Harper's systems, they've been looking for employees since like the eighties. They don't even see the sign. But I mean, it's because that people one didn't have access to welding prior to now and then. Two, they don't understand the art that's behind it. So you could take a student who truly, as an artist, really enjoys drawing and things of that nature and introduce them to welding and watch them excel, because then they can look at the project truly as like an art project.
Heather Murphy 11:04
And not to say that one is better than the other, but I was talking to two gentlemen that were in the industry that helped us kind of get all of the equipment and the supplies needed for the welding lab. And we were talking and they said, speaking of the beads and how meticulous and careful that. Another important reason to recruit or just make more women aware of of a career because they have some of the best wealth.
Austin Hill 11:27
Yeah. Oh, no.
Heather Murphy 11:27
We are pretty meticulous.
Austin Hill 11:28
Yeah. And they're not going to revoice all that either, too. Like they are going to be very focused because our first holding class we had three out of the eight students were women. Wow.
Heather Murphy 11:36
Yes.
Austin Hill 11:37
Yeah. Yeah. So it's and it's not you know, a lot of people look at welding and say, oh, you know, you've got to be a guy like, No, not at all. And like, they are the ones that are excelling.
Rich Bennett 11:45
Think about it. You're married, right?
Austin Hill 11:47
I am.
Rich Bennett 11:49
Look at it. We learned this when we come home. You want something done right? You need a woman to do it.
Austin Hill 11:55
Oh,
Heather Murphy 11:55
A
Austin Hill 11:55
1,000%.
Heather Murphy 11:56
man.
Austin Hill 11:56
1,000%. I will not. I will not argue that at all. I will not argue that.
Rich Bennett 12:01
I knew Heather was going to.
Heather Murphy 12:03
You have been trained well.
Austin Hill 12:06
Still.
Rich Bennett 12:07
Me jump, I say. How high?
Austin Hill 12:08
Yeah.
Rich Bennett 12:08
Yeah.
Austin Hill 12:09
How long
Rich Bennett 12:10
Yeah. So what is it do you actually
Austin Hill 12:12
do.
Rich Bennett 12:12
do there at in Heather.
Heather Murphy 12:13
Well, when I'm not keeping Dr. Hill straight and I'm going to.
Austin Hill 12:17
Which is a very, very difficult task.
Heather Murphy 12:19
We are yin
Rich Bennett 12:19
Austin?
Heather Murphy 12:19
and yang.
Rich Bennett 12:20
No.
Austin Hill 12:21
Yes.
Heather Murphy 12:22
No. I truly appreciate the yin and the yang of what we have, but I. Technically the workforce Center associate. So I'm more back of house kind of running operations, dealing with paperwork and just the things that people don't see that make the center run but are very important. And it's kind of it's just where I excel. He's the big picture guy and I'm the devil in the details and he.
Austin Hill 12:44
As we grow, though, I want to get her more in front of students
Rich Bennett 12:48
Yeah.
Austin Hill 12:48
because she excels in that. And it starts with recruiting and recruiting programs like As We Grow the program.
Heather Murphy 12:53
And I do do some of that.
Austin Hill 12:54
Yes.
Heather Murphy 12:55
I'm the one.
Austin Hill 12:56
He's really good.
Heather Murphy 12:56
Text at the center. So talking to students on a daily about what we have going. Get a lot of funding questions, kind of a lot of career people don't realize kind of where you can go with some of the programs or what that
Rich Bennett 13:07
Right.
Heather Murphy 13:07
looks like. So just, you know, helping them to navigate that full process from interest to enrollment to a career.
Rich Bennett 13:14
So what's the difference between the stuff going on and the. And this new work. Center at water's edge.
Austin Hill 13:20
So this is a great question. This is focused on non-credit certification programming, whereas traditionally people are going to main campus for credit programming. So like your AA degrees, your AA as degrees and things of that nature, whereas we're more short term, you want to get directly into industry with the industry certification as recognized so that you can apply for positions in order to become and get employed
Heather Murphy 13:41
And our.
Austin Hill 13:41
in programs.
Heather Murphy 13:42
Different. So none of. That are offered at water's edge are offered on campus, and a lot of them, the location is strategic because of the underserved area. The industry that exists in Bell Camp is very much aligned to the programs that were running. So it was a very strategic partnership from enrollment purposes and then aligning those programs with local employment opportunities for the students.
Rich Bennett 14:04
So how big is the center there that you guys Because I know Water's Edge has a lot of buildings.
Austin Hill 14:08
It's almost 7500 square feet. We took like two suites on the first floor in the 4690 building. So as soon as you come in, like then, also the entire right side is all suite.
Heather Murphy 14:19
Five classroom spaces and several offices and a reception area. So it's a nice size.
Rich Bennett 14:27
Good. Nice place when it's nice to sit outside and eat lunch.
Austin Hill 14:30
Oh, yeah. Listen, all by the water. You got it right. Every. Every day we look out onto the water as the bush river. Oh, it's beautiful.
Rich Bennett 14:38
So did you move your office there or is.
Austin Hill 14:39
Oh, yeah, I'm there. Oh, no, I'm there every single day. Yes, yes, yes. So my office actually probably has the largest glass. I see the bush.
Heather Murphy 14:47
But.
Austin Hill 14:48
Through the Bush River.
Heather Murphy 14:48
Yeah, but you sit with your back towards the view. Crazy.
Austin Hill 14:52
Melissa, I won't be distracted. I want to.
Heather Murphy 14:53
Blinds down. I can't even look at the view through my office, through his, because he has the blinds down. He's ruining my.
Austin Hill 14:59
What I want to be focus. But you know what? Today I'm going to look at it to put those up and really enjoy it as the last day before we go.
Rich Bennett 15:07
No, you're not. You're just doing it to. Please, Heather, you. Her.
Austin Hill 15:10
Listen. As long as he stays happy, keep showing up. Listen, It's going to be a good day.
Rich Bennett 15:15
Okay, so.
Austin Hill 15:16
Basically.
Rich Bennett 15:17
Anybody can go through this, right?
Austin Hill 15:19
Yes. So it's open to the public. Traditionally, our programs have served individuals as young as 16 all the way up to 75. We had a 75 year old graduate go through a forklift training previous a year. So, you know, we serve everybody. There is no age discrimination. And we also have funding available to that would love to like kind of talk about and share as well to.
Rich Bennett 15:42
Absolutely. Go. Go for it.
Austin Hill 15:44
So you want to start in talking about Ratcliffe?
Rich Bennett 15:47
Actually before you get into that. They don't have. Can you do? They
Austin Hill 15:51
No to enroll
Rich Bennett 15:52
be doing
Austin Hill 15:53
in enroll. You don't have to. But some of our funding is county restricted.
Rich Bennett 15:56
okay.
Austin Hill 15:56
And what kind of talk about?
Heather Murphy 15:57
Yeah, good question, though, because I had somebody call from Cecil County, so.
Austin Hill 16:01
So.
Heather Murphy 16:01
So with funding Ratcliffe in particular. So we have a grant through the Caroline. Philip. Ian Carroll, our Ratcliffe Foundation. A They are a major funder of our leading edge training center that's down in Edgewood, and they also are a funder and supporter of now our water's edge workforce Training Center. That is specific. So it is meant for Hartford County residents. It can pay for certain programs in full if there are certain eligibility criteria that an individual would meet. A lot of it has to do with if someone is unemployed, currently or underemployed. So we have situations where someone may be working, say, a retail job, but their ultimate career goal may be in welding. So while they're employed, they're looking to upskill or get into a completely different career. So situations like that, it's a great opportunity. We are extremely grateful to the Radcliffe Foundation for the funding. They've been funding us for many years and we've had a lot of students go through a pretty much average, about 75 students each year that graduate because of Radcliffe funding. So it's a wonderful opportunity. And in terms of the programs at the center, so our pipeline program qualifies as eligible for Radcliffe welding. Well and ah, when you I think that's where we stand. But we have other funding sources for others, so that's a great opportunity.
Rich Bennett 17:22
What is this pipeline program? Is it what it sounds like?
Austin Hill 17:25
Yes. So think about infrastructure, right? Like a lot of companies or organizations like Verizon, you have fiber optic fiber which goes on or underground. But there are certain things that you need to be aware of, such as with trenching, for trenching, for safety, being aware of where your gas lines are, being able to mark them off. Because now more than ever, infrastructure is so critical. You know, all around the county, especially in the northern part of the county, there's a large investment in creating Internet
Rich Bennett 17:50
Right.
Austin Hill 17:50
and having access to Internet. So we thought it was very important to have that be our next focus because infrastructure is so critical.
Rich Bennett 17:58
Well,
Austin Hill 17:58
Well, the
Rich Bennett 17:58
the other
Austin Hill 17:58
other
Rich Bennett 17:58
thing
Austin Hill 17:58
thing
Rich Bennett 17:59
is.
Austin Hill 17:59
is to connect with the infrastructure.
Rich Bennett 18:00
Structure. You look at how many things are going to have to be replaced. Know, I think like plumbing.
Austin Hill 18:05
Yes.
Rich Bennett 18:05
A lot of the plumbing is got. That was a terracotta pipe.
Austin Hill 18:07
Oh, yes. That has to be replaced with
Rich Bennett 18:08
Yeah.
Austin Hill 18:08
this cracking and holding up. Yep, yep, yep.
Rich Bennett 18:11
So what programs are?
Austin Hill 18:14
Like. Oh, man. So?
Heather Murphy 18:17
Where do you
Austin Hill 18:17
So.
Heather Murphy 18:17
want to start?
Austin Hill 18:19
So before we get there, I definitely want to mention something that is critical. Is the Maryland College Promise Scholarship that now just opened up for non-credit programming. And the college has about $85,000 that we need to award before that, before May. So hopefully, if you or somebody who is out there, the requirements are you're a maryland high school graduate or a GED graduate. You have a household income. If it is a single parent of under $100,000 a year or $150,000, if it's a two parent household, even if you're an adult, that that's fine as well to you have to take a program that is in sequence, in sequence, meaning more than one class. So that could be seen a DNA phlebotomy. Many of the classes that we have. So it's not just limited the programs that we have, but it's an entire non-credit. So if you're interested, I would encourage you to reach out and give me a call. The phone number is four, four, three, four. One, two, two two, one nine. In the college or a.u hll at Harvard dot edu. Because we have to award this money. We do not want to give it back to the state when we know that there are citizens here who can benefit from being awarded it. It's up to $5,000 per student that can be awarded. So to cover all of your course fees for your certification.
Rich Bennett 19:41
They should be going in no time, I would think.
Austin Hill 19:44
We've had the money since the beginning of the year and it's been untapped.
Rich Bennett 19:48
Are you serious?
Austin Hill 19:49
Of an untapped.
Heather Murphy 19:50
I think I mean, coming from business and I've worked in higher ed before, but. From the business world, I feel like. Go immediately to credit when they think about a community college. So, you know, the idea of workforce training is still there's still some awareness that we need to get out. Just have people understand, too. What does that mean? Like, that is going to class. But that also is a lot of times tied to specific help with getting employment. It's not just getting the training.
Austin Hill 20:16
Yeah.
Heather Murphy 20:16
There are tons of opportunities that are directly aligned with classes for employment.
Rich Bennett 20:22
You're listening to the conversations with Rich Bennett. We'll be right back.
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Austin Hill 21:50
No, but that's probably one of our next methods, because we have to make sure that this money
Rich Bennett 21:55
Yeah.
Austin Hill 21:55
gets awarded to citizens. And I mean, it is it is not difficult. It's like you'll get your decision in under a week's time because I'm one of the reviewers. So if it meets all the requirements, stuff like that, I'm moving you forward to the financial aid department to look to award or make a financial decision.
Rich Bennett 22:13
What else can we do to make people aware of this?
Austin Hill 22:15
Just word of mouth, as you always do, As you always do with word of mouth. Avenues like this. So we thank you for coming on. You know, the neighbors, you know, the Ron fillings of the world who who stand on the rooftop and say, hey, there is great training happening here within the community. Like, you know, you can have your child still be able to be successful and then change the stigma. A lot of parents believe that if my my kid does not go to, you know, four years of tuition to get a degree, that they're not going to be successful. Where we've taken the stance of if you take a certification training with us or you're awarded a T-shirt like a Harvard fighting ass T-shirt. We've now put so you'll be able to get a student I.D. for our programs for long standing so you'll have the same feel that you would in the credit program and then possibly actually know you'll make money sooner than counterparts who are seeking out those two years. And for you degrees with little to no debt at all.
Rich Bennett 23:10
And the other thing is to.
Austin Hill 23:11
You.
Rich Bennett 23:11
Look at how many of these businesses that are affiliated with you guys.
Austin Hill 23:15
Mm hmm. And
Rich Bennett 23:16
They
Austin Hill 23:16
they.
Rich Bennett 23:16
bring the people on they're doing on the job training.
Austin Hill 23:19
You.
Rich Bennett 23:20
Which there is no better training, I think.
Austin Hill 23:23
Right, right, right. It
Rich Bennett 23:25
It? Just
Austin Hill 23:25
just
Rich Bennett 23:25
me
Austin Hill 23:25
makes sense in Detroit.
Rich Bennett 23:26
Detroit. We've talked about it before. Two trains are hurt.
Austin Hill 23:28
Oh, yeah, tremendously.
Rich Bennett 23:30
I mean, you're starting to see more,
Austin Hill 23:31
And more people get into it.
Rich Bennett 23:32
but
Austin Hill 23:32
It's
Rich Bennett 23:32
still
Austin Hill 23:32
No, no,
Rich Bennett 23:32
not enough.
Austin Hill 23:33
no. It's still not enough. It's not enough to keep up with demand. I mean, I don't know if So I had some solar panels go out and they needed a service and, you know, work. I missed an appointment and I tried to reschedule. The next rescheduled appointment was two and a half months because they did not have enough technicians. So we took one new program, and that's one of those
Rich Bennett 23:52
Yeah.
Austin Hill 23:52
the solar panels. You know, if you drive up and down the county, you're starting to see more solar installation fields.
Rich Bennett 23:57
I saw.
Austin Hill 23:58
One in Abingdon, one of us Schmucks wrote at 136. Those are becoming more popular. So the solar installation technicians is one certification that, you know, we're really excited and looking at and becoming involved.
Rich Bennett 24:11
You think about it. Oh. Think
Austin Hill 24:12
Think
Rich Bennett 24:13
about.
Austin Hill 24:13
about the other trees that.
Rich Bennett 24:14
Tied to that like the pipefitters.
Austin Hill 24:16
Yes.
Rich Bennett 24:17
Even the welders.
Austin Hill 24:18
Yes, it's all intertwined. It's all under the news and it's becoming more and more popular. Right.
Rich Bennett 24:23
Yeah.
Austin Hill 24:24
As more and more households are looking to go towards solar. You know, a lot of people it is, you know, a misconception. A lot of people think like solar is just a gimmick where the more and more houses that you build, you need to take more pressure off of your hubs for electricity. And you do that through solar panels and different modules. So like if we really want to save not only the Earth but are able to save our homes, we need to really start to look at some of alternative energy technologies.
Rich Bennett 24:51
Well, you're starting to see that because I know a lot of people were against putting this.
Austin Hill 24:56
Yeah.
Rich Bennett 24:57
Now you start. So we're.
Austin Hill 24:59
Yeah. Yeah. Oh, that's even. That's even better.
Rich Bennett 25:02
Yeah, yeah, yeah. I mean, and you think about it with the rise of, you know, the EV cars and. knew the hydrogen cars don't. But still, you're a computer. I mean, do you think the old houses they
Austin Hill 25:20
They were
Rich Bennett 25:21
were
Austin Hill 25:21
not
Rich Bennett 25:21
in? For all the electronics we have today.
Austin Hill 25:24
No, no. The poll.
Rich Bennett 25:27
Yeah. And a lot of these houses still have aluminum wiring.
Austin Hill 25:31
That separates and contracts depending upon the temperature. Yep, yep, yep. I know that. Yep. Yep, yep.
Rich Bennett 25:37
Oh, God. I could go on forever.
Austin Hill 25:39
Yeah.
Rich Bennett 25:40
But so is somebody. While the program had
Austin Hill 25:45
They can visit our website. Harvard that edu in the middle of the page to go see a workforce training. You can click on the link and see a lot of our programs and then our contact information should be at the bottom or they can reach out to us by email. Once again, it's a u hll at Harvard that edu or
44341222, one nine. And we're more than happy to be able to speak with you about options and have career navigators that can sit down and meet with you. Perhaps that's going to work for this network who is an amazing partner who comes every single Thursday to to meet and talk with students. That's another funding source that is available to help students be able to pay for certification. So we're really trying to create access. And then if you don't have transportation, there's a bus stop that literally drops you off right in front of our facility.
Rich Bennett 26:32
really.
Austin Hill 26:32
Yes, yes, yes.
Rich Bennett 26:34
So.
I don't know if I should say this or not. I'm going to anyways.
Austin Hill 26:40
Okay.
Rich Bennett 26:42
Just. I mean, for the first. In. All on.
Austin Hill 26:46
Mm hmm.
Rich Bennett 26:46
Do you?
Austin Hill 26:47
Think.
Rich Bennett 26:48
You didn't. This. This program will be here.
Austin Hill 26:52
Today. I think that God puts people in places for reasons.
Rich Bennett 26:58
Mm hmm.
Austin Hill 26:59
Seasons and callings. And I truly believe when this opportunity presented itself, it was because the time was now to be able to invest. I mean, if you think
Rich Bennett 27:08
Yeah.
Austin Hill 27:08
about accepting the job before COVID and then COVID hit and then the focus became more around trades and it was clear as ever, like my my mission was clear on what to do. And I truly think it's a blessing not only to be not even from our county, but to be embraced by people from
Rich Bennett 27:24
Yeah.
Austin Hill 27:24
every county what we're doing, and so that students who need the opportunity have the opportunity to be able to be successful and feel loved, too.
Rich Bennett 27:34
Yeah.
Austin Hill 27:34
That's the other thing that, you know, when you come and you talk to a Heather, you talk to a mau and meek and Wendy or anybody or anybody even on campus, like you're going to feel love. And I think that that is the the the second thing that I wanted to to bring on just trades, but for students to feel loved every time that they look to be involved in school, because they may have gone through an educational experience where you didn't feel the love, but you're going to feel the love at HCC.
Rich Bennett 28:00
I don't know if anybody's ever told you this or not, but me personally, I'm proud of what you've.
Austin Hill 28:06
I thank you for that.
Rich Bennett 28:06
I. I think it's amazing. I think it's something that's been long overdue. And you're right. I think God put you here for that.
Austin Hill 28:15
I truly, I truly in my heart believe.
Rich Bennett 28:18
I don't know what Heather's role is going to be. This would be sometimes I see them horns on top and. Joking.
Heather Murphy 28:23
The devil put me here as a task? No, the yin and the yang.
Rich Bennett 28:29
You know, I got in most of you.
Heather Murphy 28:30
I know.
Rich Bennett 28:30
Been a while.
Heather Murphy 28:31
I'm.
Austin Hill 28:32
But the timing was perfect even for Heather, and I
Rich Bennett 28:34
Yeah.
Austin Hill 28:34
can't say that enough. You know, I had a wonderful mean and Rose and I don't want to diminish what she does because she did amazing and great things while we were together. But during the season when we knew we were going to be in transition. You know, Heather being placed there truly helped take things to the next level because she's looking at it from industry, high level business standpoint and what's needed. And there are some things that I'll even admit that I'll say, Hey, I want to do it like this. She's like, No, we're not going to do this right. And she has the power to be able to do that. And, you know, a lot of people who feel like they're working for a supervisor or something are afraid to share their opinion. And I look to create an environment that allows for people to share their opinions. I'm going to back what your decision is and go full throttle because I know that you're coming from an avenue that's going to help students.
Rich Bennett 29:24
Yeah.
Austin Hill 29:25
As long as you're coming from an event that's going to help students. You know, I'm you know, I don't I don't I don't need to take ownership or any. You know that.
Rich Bennett 29:34
Mm.
Austin Hill 29:34
It can all be a collaborative effort. The.
Rich Bennett 29:37
Do you know if and I don't know if it is or not, or if anybody's contacted you from other counties or states.
Austin Hill 29:43
Yes.
Rich Bennett 29:44
They have. Okay.
Austin Hill 29:45
Yeah, we get calls all the time. Just last week, Carroll Community College came down to see, you know, how we structure things,
Rich Bennett 29:50
Right.
Austin Hill 29:50
how we interact, how we have the student face employees, you know, you name it. You know, different counties in the Eastern Shore have come up to us to see what we're doing, this whole restructuring program, you know, because we try to be innovative, you know, down to ah ah, 18 to 24 population. We went after a grant last year that was kind of dormant in the county, had the idea like, hey, like let's focus on 18 to 24 year olds cause they need the support. And we went from the previous vendor had zero enrollees to we had 25 and a month and a half timeframe that are now being awarded industry certifications. Last night we had a student who was awarded a CMA certification. So she's able to provide a living not just for herself, but her young daughter as well too. So, I mean, we're helping to change the trajectory and and pathways, and that's the most rewarding feeling that anybody could ever, ever give us, like to be able to see somebody else start on their journey, a pathway to be successful. So
Rich Bennett 30:46
Something I want to do. And it's funny because I messaged
Austin Hill 30:50
message of
Rich Bennett 30:50
my
Austin Hill 30:50
my.
Rich Bennett 30:50
co-host on my morning.
Austin Hill 30:53
Mm hmm.
Rich Bennett 30:53
About ideas.
Austin Hill 30:54
As for.
Rich Bennett 30:55
2025
Austin Hill 30:56
Mm hmm.
Rich Bennett 30:57
is a beauty.
Austin Hill 30:58
Okay.
Rich Bennett 30:59
So
Austin Hill 30:59
So what
Rich Bennett 30:59
what? I
Austin Hill 30:59
I
Rich Bennett 30:59
would.
Austin Hill 30:59
would like to do. Mm hmm.
Rich Bennett 31:02
May take some work from you or Heather, but.
Austin Hill 31:05
I met, like, once.
Rich Bennett 31:07
Twice a year.
Austin Hill 31:08
Okay, I guess.
Rich Bennett 31:08
Yes. Bring
Austin Hill 31:09
Bring
Rich Bennett 31:09
some.
Austin Hill 31:09
some. Okay.
Rich Bennett 31:11
Graduated.
Austin Hill 31:12
Okay.
Rich Bennett 31:12
This way we can raise more awareness.
Austin Hill 31:15
We could definitely do that.
Rich Bennett 31:16
Talk about and even some of that because you got a lot of business
Austin Hill 31:18
Is that a
Rich Bennett 31:19
affiliated.
Austin Hill 31:19
yes? Yes.
Rich Bennett 31:21
And get them on to how we could do roundtable discussions.
Austin Hill 31:24
I think that'll be great and I think it'll bring awareness to.
Rich Bennett 31:26
Yeah, that's the goal. Yeah.
Austin Hill 31:27
Especially before the the graduation season when parents are feeling like, oh, like you're not accepted here. Like, what are we going to do? I think that'd be a perfect opportunity. Like, Oh, wow.
Rich Bennett 31:38
Actually,
Austin Hill 31:38
That's
Rich Bennett 31:38
one or two times
Austin Hill 31:38
such
Rich Bennett 31:39
a.
Austin Hill 31:39
a struggle for students.
Rich Bennett 31:40
Price spring.
Austin Hill 31:41
I mean enrolments are about to see where year round. Yeah, but I mean like a lot of our programs like welding, welding is about to be the next available slot for welding is going to be June. I think
Heather Murphy 31:51
All right. Our April class is almost.
Austin Hill 31:53
Yeah. Apricots is almost.
Heather Murphy 31:54
Yeah, if we run a summer session.
Austin Hill 31:56
Yeah, it would be June. So, I mean, we're not hurting for a moment, but there are students who need it a benefit if we. flux we can look to. Something that's well, that's the point where we're looking at now, too. But a parents are panicking and saying, oh, we haven't got a decision from this school or that school, like know that. Come and talk to us, because we could
Rich Bennett 32:13
Yeah.
Austin Hill 32:13
have. A very solid alternative for your child who may need that. I want to call it a gap year, but a year so they can see the fruits of their labor in their hands immediately before they go on to that project. Because for years, for a lot of students, a long time to be able to see completion. You know, especially if you look at degree completion rates, is about 54% nationwide from the time you enroll, by the time you graduate is about 54% completion rate for people who are being awarded four year degree within a four year time.
Rich Bennett 32:43
The other thing is you don't get people too
Austin Hill 32:46
How
Rich Bennett 32:46
many
Austin Hill 32:46
many of
Rich Bennett 32:47
of
Austin Hill 32:47
them?
Rich Bennett 32:47
the. Not for the trades. Show me them, actually.
Austin Hill 32:52
Third.
For a mainstream role, it becomes very common, right? I mean, if you can't pass a class, if it's too many credits, if financially you can't afford it, and this program is going to pay for it. But you have to change your major. I mean, that that happens. I mean, even myself, like I started off as a poly sci major in terms of business education because I fell in love with teaching. I fell in love with students. I mean, that happens, you know, you find yourself while you're in college, you find out what you're good at and what you're not good at and what's going to inspire you.
Rich Bennett 33:23
And one of the things I'm seeing from the trades and you mentioned it with the 75 year old.
Austin Hill 33:27
A lot of people.
Rich Bennett 33:28
People, even as they get older, are realizing, you know, I should have done what I wanted to do and.
Austin Hill 33:34
Mm hmm.
Rich Bennett 33:36
Now they can do this other.
Austin Hill 33:37
Other people.
Rich Bennett 33:38
I think of my son.
Austin Hill 33:39
My
Rich Bennett 33:39
My
Austin Hill 33:39
son
Rich Bennett 33:39
son
Austin Hill 33:39
is
Rich Bennett 33:39
is
Austin Hill 33:40
an
Rich Bennett 33:40
an
Austin Hill 33:40
electrician
Rich Bennett 33:40
electrician
Austin Hill 33:40
now.
Rich Bennett 33:40
now.
Austin Hill 33:41
Mm.
Rich Bennett 33:42
He had no plans of becoming an electrician. He loves it.
Austin Hill 33:46
Oh, yeah.
Rich Bennett 33:47
It seems like
Heather Murphy 33:47
Everybody.
Rich Bennett 33:47
everybody gets into the church.
Austin Hill 33:48
Trade.
Rich Bennett 33:49
If they.
Austin Hill 33:50
A.
Rich Bennett 33:51
Do what?
Austin Hill 33:53
Love it.
Rich Bennett 33:54
They did.
Austin Hill 33:54
Oh, they love it. Absolute, because you get to see at the end of the day, you're your project. Like you can say like, Wow, I did that, you know, right? Like every day you could have a different project and have different results. No, two days are the same. You know, you can walk into a property that has a lunar wiring this day and then, you know, update a wiring and have to rewire. And, you know, being able to solve someone's day, it has to be a great feeling. Has to be a great feeling.
Rich Bennett 34:18
I'm glad you're doing the welding thing now.
Austin Hill 34:20
Oh.
Rich Bennett 34:21
Fields. I remember when my father had a body shop. And we had they used what they call it. They would clip cars.
Austin Hill 34:30
Yes. Yeah. The car club. They had the wallet together.
Rich Bennett 34:32
Yeah.
Austin Hill 34:32
It was a bad accident because he didn't want to try to pull
Rich Bennett 34:34
Yeah.
Austin Hill 34:34
or try to up.
Heather Murphy 34:36
FLATOW They also.
Rich Bennett 34:37
To me a lot of low riders to.
Austin Hill 34:39
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Rich Bennett 34:40
It's an art.
Austin Hill 34:42
Yeah, because you have to align those cuts have to be perfect in the wells, have to be perfect too, and has to be able to withstand the pressure and things of that nature. Yeah. So it's not just a piece slapping on a down. I know. Like it has to.
Rich Bennett 34:53
You guys are wiring frames back together.
Austin Hill 34:55
Yeah.
Rich Bennett 34:57
Howard, let me.
Austin Hill 34:58
Yeah. Yeah.
Heather Murphy 35:00
It's funny that you say that, too, because we have our auto collision program that is a partnership through Camby, and they have been spending some time at the water's edge facility with their alert, their classroom learning. And because we have the welding facility, there is a welding component within the automotive collision, which was more so of instructional learning before. But now them being on site, they actually have been able to go over to the lab and they're able now to even add even more value in their learning. So it is cool to see that. And it's funny that you brought that up because we're watching that in real time now at the center.
Rich Bennett 35:31
It's a you look at some of these sculptured.
Austin Hill 35:34
Yeah. Yeah.
Rich Bennett 35:35
Welding.
Austin Hill 35:36
Yeah. You know.
Heather Murphy 35:38
Listen, I've taken an interest.
Austin Hill 35:40
But you love what you do.
Rich Bennett 35:41
Yeah, exactly.
Austin Hill 35:42
What would you do?
Heather Murphy 35:43
Exactly.
Rich Bennett 35:44
Taking an interest in welding.
Heather Murphy 35:45
I'm trying. Yeah. I mean, are you kidding me? My husband is a, you know, car tanker off roader. He does his own. He knows. Taught himself some welding. So, of course, I think he's been thrilled. Because I'm starting to like,
Rich Bennett 35:57
Yeah.
Heather Murphy 35:57
use the terminology and learn. And it's very interesting. I mean, I've I've had an interest I actually we just got sent was some industry magazine for a while they do you know who grabbed me and I'm going to take it home and read it over the break because, you know, to your point about passion like this, what I really appreciate about working with the team that I have, the privilege of working with Harvard Community College, you can really see the passion and every single person. And I know for me, like my heart, I always want my heart to be in something. So it's like I don't want to just work this at the center and be able to tell you that we have a welding lab. I would like to learn more and know myself and be able to talk to a person. You didn't end.
Rich Bennett 36:36
makes sense.
Austin Hill 36:37
Total sense.
Heather Murphy 36:38
So that's my goal for 2025. So perhaps when we circle back at the end of next year, quiz me and see. What about?
Rich Bennett 36:44
About this. Oh, God. Who was I
Austin Hill 36:47
Talking
Rich Bennett 36:47
talking
Austin Hill 36:47
about
Rich Bennett 36:47
about?
Austin Hill 36:47
this with.
Rich Bennett 36:51
It was a restaurant, but like all their cooks, their chefs go through their. Which makes sense because you don't want to bring it bring an outsider in.
Austin Hill 37:01
No.
Rich Bennett 37:01
You want them to learn.
Austin Hill 37:03
Yeah. Yeah.
Rich Bennett 37:05
It's a secret recipe.
Austin Hill 37:08
Know.
Heather Murphy 37:09
Keep
Austin Hill 37:09
You.
Heather Murphy 37:09
that on.
Rich Bennett 37:10
Don't never tell. Awesome.
Austin Hill 37:13
Oh, yeah. It's vaudeville. Yes. Yes, they ever do. Man Listen, I don't think I can replicate it, though, because you need that that that that food, that that full oven experience.
Rich Bennett 37:22
It's something that. I don't know what it is, but when Italians make pizza. You can't.
Austin Hill 37:33
You can't.
Rich Bennett 37:33
Can't beat it. I mean, you go in all the rest.
Heather Murphy 37:36
Try.
Austin Hill 37:37
You can't match it.
Rich Bennett 37:38
Now.
Austin Hill 37:39
Can't match it.
Rich Bennett 37:39
No, It's just like with the pasta and everything and. All right, stop
Austin Hill 37:43
Stop talking.
Rich Bennett 37:43
talking about.
Austin Hill 37:43
Yes.
Heather Murphy 37:44
And as to close to lunchtime.
Austin Hill 37:46
Is there anything either of you will like that?
Rich Bennett 37:49
Because I know I must be. I'm forgetting a lot of things.
Austin Hill 37:52
No, just consider us that we have funding that's available. We actually have a funding questionnaire that we'll share with you to get some pertinent information that we can share with you then what funding sources are available to you. But there is funding available for citizens to be able to take certification training through Harvard Community College.
Rich Bennett 38:08
Yeah. Any links or even videos or anything you want me put in the show note
Austin Hill 38:12
Please. I will. I will. I will.
Heather Murphy 38:14
Might have dates for We've been doing. Information sessions So inviting people into the center, you get a tour. See the various labs here about the programming. We talk about funding. Try to even have one on one conversations while you're in the building. To get you started and move through. And then we also are trying to do industry events coming up because to your point about how valuable student testimonials are is also valuable that we bring in local businesses to talk about what those careers look like, what they have opened. A lot of our instructors. Industry. So
Austin Hill 38:45
So.
Heather Murphy 38:46
they're the ones teaching the courses. Who better to have in front of the students to answer any question? So we'll have those dates out to you to share as well.
Rich Bennett 38:53
Great idea to get some of the video testimony.
Austin Hill 38:56
No.
Rich Bennett 38:57
From people. Oh, you all heard that, right?
Heather Murphy 38:59
I did.
Rich Bennett 39:00
I don't know.
Austin Hill 39:01
The test.
Rich Bennett 39:01
Truck coming by or drone falling out of the sky.
Austin Hill 39:04
Those rooms are.
Heather Murphy 39:05
I'm so out of that loop. I need to.
Rich Bennett 39:08
The drones.
Heather Murphy 39:08
Yes, I've been hearing about it. I know nothing.
Rich Bennett 39:10
Ireland. I think he was saying a. Every.
Austin Hill 39:13
Yeah, a little too low.
Heather Murphy 39:14
It is.
Rich Bennett 39:15
Amazon testing it all.
Heather Murphy 39:17
Honestly. Very well could be.
Rich Bennett 39:18
Could be. Or dominoes.
Austin Hill 39:21
You don't delivery.
Rich Bennett 39:22
This is, you know, I had to get a piece of
Austin Hill 39:24
There you go. There you go. There you go.
Rich Bennett 39:27
Well, all.
Austin Hill 39:28
However.
Rich Bennett 39:29
Heather is great. She.
Heather Murphy 39:30
Wonderful to see you.
Austin Hill 39:31
Oh, no. But I know she's, uh. She truly is. The,
Rich Bennett 39:33
I was
Austin Hill 39:33
uh,
Rich Bennett 39:34
a real.
Austin Hill 39:34
the Christmas from. Yeah. Good.
Rich Bennett 39:37
Because you when you said that unlike other.
Well, you didn't know who I was all about. No, I had no idea who you were talking about.
Austin Hill 39:45
She's a she's always the surprise. I guess everybody is. Oh, my gosh. Like, you've got to be so happy. I was like, Yeah, I am. I tell her every single day. I'll just say, like, I really am happy that she has elected to allow us to work together because I truly think her being there truly is a blessing and a great addition
Heather Murphy 40:03
Well, I'll make sure to cut my checks to both of you after this. Segue checks. LW Isn't that what the kids are doing nowadays? I felt so old, but I said to.
Rich Bennett 40:13
Zell.
Heather Murphy 40:15
Yeah. Paper.
Austin Hill 40:16
Zeller.
Rich Bennett 40:17
Now. What the hell does.
Heather Murphy 40:18
Cash app. What do you got? Venmo. Oh, okay.
Austin Hill 40:22
Oh, baby.
Heather Murphy 40:22
I was
Austin Hill 40:22
Okay.
Heather Murphy 40:22
going to say.
Austin Hill 40:23
Good.
Rich Bennett 40:24
Zell's another. How many? Cash apps are there.
Heather Murphy 40:27
There's a.
Austin Hill 40:27
There's a lot of different mediums for repeating. Yeah, but that's another show for another day.
Heather Murphy 40:32
Yeah, right.
Rich Bennett 40:33
So, Austin. You guys get back to the office today.
Austin Hill 40:36
I
Rich Bennett 40:36
What
Austin Hill 40:36
would
Rich Bennett 40:36
are you going to do?
Austin Hill 40:37
send you the link so you can add to the show.
Rich Bennett 40:38
Oh, no, that's not the first thing you got to do.
Austin Hill 40:41
Oh, we're going to find students.
Rich Bennett 40:42
No.
Austin Hill 40:43
Oh, look outside.
Rich Bennett 40:44
Open the blinds.
Austin Hill 40:46
Look. Listen.
Heather Murphy 40:47
This is why I'm here, because I was going to say, I was just waiting
Austin Hill 40:50
Do
Heather Murphy 40:50
to
Austin Hill 40:50
you
Heather Murphy 40:50
see
Austin Hill 40:50
have
Heather Murphy 40:50
how
Austin Hill 40:50
a note
Heather Murphy 40:50
long it.
Austin Hill 40:50
before I get to the desk? Like, step one, do this.
Heather Murphy 40:53
I've already sent you an email now.
Austin Hill 40:54
Oh. It's already done.
Heather Murphy 40:57
God.
Rich Bennett 40:58
Thanks, guy.
Austin Hill 40:59
Thank you. Thank you.
Rich Benett 41:02
Thank you for listening to the conversations with Rich Bennett. I hope you enjoy today's episode and learn something from it as I did. If you'd like to hear more conversations like this, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode. And if you have a moment, I'd love if you could leave a review. It helps us reach more listeners and share more incredible stories. Don't forget to connect with us on social media or visit our website at conversations with Rich Bennett dot com for updates, giveaways and more. Until next time, take care, be kind and keep the conversations going.