Training teaches skills, offers sense of optimism

July 23, 2024

Back in the spring, an email from the Food Bank of Delaware piqued Demetrius Harris’ attention. At the time, he was self-employed as a home-improvement contractor toying with the idea of changing careers. The email about free workforce training –specifically focused on warehousing and logistics – caught his attention. Now that his daughter turned 10, he and his wife had discussed improving the quality of their family time. So, he looked into the free training opportunity, then enrolled in our Milford class that started in May.

L.O.G.I.C. (Logistics, Operations, General Warehousing and Inventory Control) is a 14-week training program, certified as a trade school by the Delaware Department of Education, that prepares students for careers in the warehousing/logistics industry. Under the guidance of an Operations Instructor, students train in the warehouses of the Food Bank of Delaware in Newark and Milford. Students receive 444 hours of training and work experience over the course of 14 weeks; they also have the opportunity to earn certifications in the field.

Demetrius, a Magnolia resident, had some prior experience in warehousing and receiving. “I used to manage a farm stand that had a warehouse, and years ago, I worked in receiving,” he said. The prior experience, coupled with general life lessons, also allows him to feel more comfortable in the classroom and support other students as well. “I get a lot out of helping others. The class is great, and Paula [the instructor] is great too,” he said.

As to the future? “I would like to find a job in a warehouse, then move up to warehouse administration, just not sitting in a desk all day,” Demetrius added. Preparing for the Sept. 4 graduation, he’s already been combing posted employment opportunities. “There are a few that have piqued my interest,” he said.

Click here to learn more about this program, including dates for in-person and virtual open houses. Classes start in September.