Shining a Light on Learning: How Current Employees Help Teammates Reach New Heights

Suelynn Shiller December 21, 2023

Shining a Light on Learning: How Current Employees Helped Teammates Reach New Heights

The lighting industry is not only known for illuminating homes and businesses but also for fostering bright futures within its own communities. One shining example is Current’s Education Program, where the company’s Training and Organizational Development team at their Tijuana facility goes above and beyond to empower employees by facilitating their pursuit of educational certificates.

In collaboration with the National Institute of Adult Education, the Current Education Program has been a beacon of support for employees for 20 years. However, 2023 marked a monumental milestone with the first cohort instructed by Training and Organizational Development team members. This dedicated group of students, the largest in the program’s history, comprised 34 participants who diligently engaged in two-hour daily study sessions and take-home assignments. Guided by the National Institute’s materials and the unwavering support of their trainers, these determined individuals persevered through the challenges of balancing work and education.

Current recognizes the profound impact of this program on its workplace culture. The experience fosters meaningful connections and mutual respect between participants and trainers, as Diana Martinez, Current Training Assistant, and Adult Education Program Teacher, aptly shares: “The education program was an amazing learning experience for both our students and for us, the teachers… Our first group taught us so much, not just about the process and logistics of the exam, but also about the community that we created.”

The school was established with a clear mission: to invest in and empower individuals who, due to various circumstances, might not have the opportunity to obtain educational certificates on their own. These talented employees, often brimming with potential, could be held back from professional advancement without this crucial support. The Current Education Program bridges this gap, providing employees with the tools they need to reach new heights while offering the Training and Organizational Development staff a meaningful and impactful way to serve their colleagues.

The success of 2023’s cohort was truly a cause for celebration. All 34 participants proudly crossed the finish line, receiving their hard-earned certificates at a special ceremony complete with caps and gowns. High achievers were further recognized for their exceptional test scores. The program’s impact was so resounding that a second cohort was formed and is eagerly awaiting graduation in January 2024.

Martinez goes on to express the more profound significance of the program: “The greatest part about leading the education program was getting to know our students better. They have remarkable personal and professional traits that I believe I wouldn’t have gotten to see outside of the program, and I’m glad to say that they’re all wonderful people.” She further elaborates on the transformative power of the program: “But what I enjoyed the most about being part of the program and being so close to them was getting to see how their self-perception changed from ‘Am I too old to start?’ to ‘I believe I can because I already made it.'”

Current recognizes that the benefits of the Current Education Program extend far beyond the certificates themselves. The program is a powerful testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to employee development and its belief in investing in a brighter future for its team members and their families. As Courtney Abraham, Current’s CHRO, aptly states: “We believe in empowering our employees to participate in the future of work, and at Current, we create pathways that allow for the attainment and celebration of educational milestones. By partnering with our employees to support their learning, we aspire to positively support our team members – with their personal lives and goals and helping to prepare them for productive, engaged careers.”

The Current Education Program shines a bright light on the power of community, dedication, and unwavering support within the lighting industry. It is a program that illuminates individual potential and the path toward a brighter future for employees, the company, and the community.

As the final chapter in our Fall Philanthropy Series closes, we invite you to explore the full spectrum of illuminated generosity – rediscover inspiring stories of service and dedication from across the lighting industry here. We hope that these stories inspire your path to making a difference.