UNL UO Custodial Services: A Focus on Training & Professional Development Programming

APPA Leadership Academy group picture. Cheryl and Chris from UNL are represented in the front row. The rest are other learners from around the country.
APPA Leadership Academy group picture. Cheryl and Chris from UNL are represented in the front row. The rest are other learners from around the country.

At UNL UO Custodial Services, we believe that our greatest strength is our people. With a dedicated team of over 200 staff members, we're committed to continuous growth—not just as a department, but as individuals and professionals. Each year, we assess our training needs and build a robust annual plan to ensure everyone has the tools and knowledge they need to succeed.

Training for All Staff
Training and professional development are at the heart of what we do. Throughout the year, every employee participates in a mix of online and in-person sessions covering key topics such as communication, technology, emergency preparedness, and goal setting. We also focus on job-specific skills, including cleaning best practices and expert tips from seasoned custodians.

In addition to our annual asbestos training and biennial fire extinguisher sessions, we’re proud to offer optional certifications in CPR, AED, and first aid. These voluntary programs are just one of the many ways we support a well-rounded and safety-focused workforce.

Developing Leaders
For our leadership team, professional development goes even further. Each leader completes a minimum of 10 hours of continuing education annually. With a wide range of opportunities—ranging from UNL courses and Bridge trainings to webinars and the UNL All Staff Conference—our supervisors and managers are empowered to grow their skills and stay ahead of industry trends.

We also encourage attendance at national conferences and trade shows hosted by respected organizations such as APPA (Association of Physical Plant Administrators), ISSA (International Sanitary Supply Association), and TMA Systems. These events provide valuable insights and networking opportunities that help bring innovative ideas back to our department.

At every level, we are committed to learning, growth, and excellence. Thank you to all our team members for their dedication and drive to make UNL shine—literally and figuratively.