At Vertech, we’ve adopted the moniker of “Control Freaks” to describe our passion for automation and control systems. I guess that kind of filters down to our methods of onboarding select engineering new hires. So, we created a meticulously planned curriculum. It’s so big, it’s not just some kind of training session where you learn which VMs to log into and which Teams channels to join – it’s a whole freaking university. We call it Control Freak University, or CFU.
Granted, it’s not an accredited 4-year program, but like camping, it’s intense (in tents). However, CFU is also a fun, rewarding experience. While we embrace a remote work culture, this needs to happen in person. Over several weeks, the class worked and lived in Vertech’s hometown: Phoenix (don’t worry, we provide real housing and not tents). It’s a collaborative environment that works hard and plays hard with team building and networking activities.
Some goals of the program are to accelerate new hire development, standardize foundational technical skills, and boost confidence in troubleshooting and engineering. It’s kind of like bootcamp, without the grueling obstacle course or live fire exercises (HR said no to that one). Graduates of the program will be precision machines, ready to take on client projects.
I got a chance to ask graduating members of the first CFU class about their experience. Here’s one thing I learned: what’s orange and sounds like a parrot? (Answer at the bottom. And yes, corny dad jokes are a Vertech thing.)
In all seriousness, I learned the overall shared experience was highly positive. Connections were made as enrollees worked with Vertech veterans, learned more about their roles and how they work with their future team members. The group shared a van over the weeks and enjoyed trips to the gym, weekend outings, and sight-seeing in their off time.
Isabel Sizemore, an Associate Developer on the Digital Plant team in Austin, was pleasantly surprised by her experience. “I was very surprised about all of the instructors and managers who flew in and made the time to teach us for multiple hours about their areas of expertise.” Sizemore continued, “I learned about how the company prioritizes in having a good culture and environment, and how everyone is very willing to help each other.”
As a relatively new Vertechian myself, I can attest to the good culture and willingness to help each other. There definitely seemed to be a pattern in my interviews with other CFU participants.
Jamil Omer, also an Associate Developer but based out of our Nashville office, shared, “I had a blast and wish my first job had a similar onboarding experience. Feels like I will be up to pace and have an easier time settling in with my future team and projects.” Omer also shared a shoutout to Senior Developer Justin Richard and the Digital Plant folks who took on the instructor role and shared their knowledge.
Network Engineer Tanner Castro, based out of our home Phoenix office, also echoed the shoutout to those who made the CFU program possible and provided a warm welcome. “I already had a great feeling about Vertech upon starting, but participating in CFU validated those feelings. Meeting the team and going through the trainings was a very pleasant experience,” Castro said.
The first CFU class has graduated, and if their reviews are any indication, we got the curriculum right. New Vertechians walked in as new hires and walked out with technical fundamentals, a network of colleagues across offices, and a genuine sense of what it means to be a Control Freak. We learned a lot too, and we'll keep sharpening the program for the Class of 2027. To Isabel, Jamil, Tanner, and the rest of the class: welcome aboard. And to the instructors and managers who flew in, gave up their time, and shared knowledge: thank you! Now, about that riddle…
Riddle answer: a carrot!
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