PODS Launches New Pilot Training Program for Drivers

Rich Schwartz, SVP – Corp Ops, recently announced the launch of an innovative pilot training program for onboarding new drivers! This 2-week intensive program aims to achieve three key goals:

• Boost driver retention: We want our talented drivers to stay with us. This program equips them with the skills and confidence to excel, fostering long-term commitment.
• Standardize training: Consistency is key! This program ensures all new drivers receive the same high-quality training, regardless of location.
• Empower market managers: By building well-trained driver teams, we free up market managers to focus on strategic business growth.

The program will be rolled out in four key hubs (Santa Ana, CA; Carrollton, TX; Bristol, CT; and Orlando, FL) and surrounding markets, representing 30% of our locations. If successful, we plan to expand the program across the entire enterprise.

To lead this exciting initiative, we've promoted four outstanding drivers to the newly created role of Driver Trainer:

• Francisco Marrero (Orlando FL)
• Dylan Martin (Carrollton TX)
• Maria Sanchez Irizarry (Bristol, CT)
• Javier Morfin (Santa Ana, CA)

These driver trainers were carefully selected based on stringent safety and performance standards, along with strong recommendations from their territory managers. They embody the best qualities we seek in our drivers and are passionate about sharing their knowledge and experience. This week, the driver trainers will complete a comprehensive train-the-trainer program to prepare them for this important new role.

Josh Bonanno, Corp Ops Training Manager, and Kara Delemeester, Regional Training Coordinator, each have direct responsibility for ensuring the success of this new program. As the owner of the program, Josh has oversight of all training deliverables, program reporting and performance of our Driver Trainers. He works directly with Corp Ops and Safety leadership to verify that new drivers are getting the training they need to safely operate in the field while providing excellent service to our customers. In Kara’s role, she is the direct point of contact for our Driver Trainers and Wingman Program drivers as they execute the program at the four training hubs. She provides the materials, logistics planning and delivery system to the field so they can implement the program effectively.