Customer College now offers classes in German

Customer College officials hope their students will be asking, “Was wünschen Sie bitte?” after attending the first Customer College class taught auf Deutsch for local nationals April 19 to 22.

“There’s been a need for this class since the beginning,” said Bob Furse, Customer College director. “For example, we have folks working at the civil engineer squadron who repair furniture, electric and plumbing. They need the minimal amount of English to do their job, but as customer service providers, they would benefit from the class.”

The class already received a nod from some of the local national community; the first class was full shortly after it was announced, and the college has received requests for future classes.

The 20-seat class is now offered quarterly, and requests for the class will determine how many classes will be scheduled.

“We’ll offer it weekly if needed,” said Georgina Green, Customer College training specialist. “If someone wants the training, we’d love to have them.”
The course curriculum follows the English-speaking class closely, but has a few modifications.

“We’re addressing and discussing problems specific to local nationals,” said Kerstin Castaneda, 435th Civil Engineer Squadron translator.
Overall, the German students seemed eager to learn, said Ms. Castaneda, who taught the class.

“It’s important to attend Customer College for serving the customers in any matter,” said Jürgen Klein, 38th Construction and Training Squadron production controller. “Learning in our native language is a lot easier. This course will help me to be more professional in customer service.”
For more information on Customer College classes, call 489-8004.