Cushman & Wakefield Careers: Learn from Alden's Apprentice Story

In today’s dynamic work environment, hands-on experience is invaluable. Alden Garcia, a maintenance technician apprentice at Cushman & Wakefield, shares his journey and the lessons he has learned throughout his apprenticeship. Through an in-depth conversation, Alden revealed the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and leadership in his role. 

Alden’s apprenticeship began with Required Technical Training (RTI) at Dallas College in Texas. His experience there was more than just conceptual learning—it was about practical exposure to new equipment and technologies. "It was an incredible opportunity to immerse myself in the new equipment and culture," Alden recalls. The combination of state-of-the-art facilities and being part of a tight-knit cohort helped make the transition smoother for him, especially when adjusting to a new environment as a California native. 

During his time at Dallas College, his training included intensive classes in electrical theory, pneumatics, PLCs (programmable logic controllers), and mechanical systems. What set Alden apart was his prior experience at Chaffey College, which gave him an edge in understanding the material. Not only did this make his own learning process smoother, but it also allowed him to support his peers. 

Collaboration was a key theme throughout Alden’s journey. While at RTI the cohort bonded quickly through shared experiences. Alden, along with two other peers, was elected as a leader of their group. They had previously taken classes together at Chaffey College, which created a natural synergy in their new roles. Alden’s ability to lead and work as part of a cohesive team played a major role in his success. He attributes much of his growth to this collaborative environment, which pushed everyone to perform at their best and overcome challenges together. 

Returning to his regular worksite in California, Alden found that collaboration continued to be an essential part of his daily routine. His team was receptive and supportive, helping him adjust to his role quickly. Whether troubleshooting a problem or learning a new skill, Alden emphasized the importance of open communication and leveraging team knowledge to tackle any obstacles he faced. 

Alden’s journey as an apprentice is a testament to the power of hands-on education, collaboration, and perseverance. From overcoming challenges to stepping into leadership roles, his story highlights the value of learning from others and contributing to a larger team. With his continued drive and passion for growth, there’s no doubt that Alden will continue to thrive in his career, bringing his unique perspective and skills to everything he does.