Basseterre, St. Kitts – Mr. Leslie Warner, the Senior Sales Associate at the TDC Home and Building Depot Paint and Colour Centre on St. Kitts, has successfully completed the Architectural Coatings Technologist professional accreditation from the Masters Painters Institute (MPI).
Mr. Warner was one of twenty (20) candidates from across the Caribbean selected by Harris Paints, through its local affiliate, and is first in the Federation to achieve this lifetime professional certification from the Canadian based Association.
The extensive and internationally recognized program tested coatings, technical knowledge across paint categories encompassing different types of paint and technologies, manufacturing processes, colour, application methods, specifications, using industry standards and included a focus on safety and environmental issues.
In highlighting the achievement, Mr. Luke Ticknor, Harris Paints Senior Sales, and Marketing Vice President stated, “This initiative has been very rewarding; to see the knowledge and skill level of our representatives across the region grow and for them to receive an internationally recognized accreditation that will put them in good stead for their career development.”
He added, “Earlier this year, Harris Paints successfully received the MPI quality certification for several of its key paint products. This puts the Harris brand on an equal footing with any of the top north American and international paint brands. The product certifications combined with the training, validates Harris’s commitment to providing quality products and outstanding customer service.”
Mr. Iston Williams, the TDC Home and Building Senior Manager, also commended Mr. Warner and spoke of the value of his newly acquired certification.
“We are very proud of Mr. Warner and congratulate him on his recent success in becoming our very own Architectural Coatings Technologist. We applauded the initiative and agreed to support Mr. Warner. When you have the solid foundational knowledge behind paints, the different technologies and how they work, it makes our Paint Team better equipped to answer queries, offer practical and useful advice, and enhance the customer experience at our stores in St. Kitts and Nevis.”
In speaking of his accomplishment, Mr. Warner stated, “I am extremely pleased. The program was demanding and well-rounded. I had the opportunity to broaden my knowledge even in areas that were not called for daily. It will certainly complement my many years of experience in the paint sector, and be of great benefit to my team, and our many customers.”
Mr. Warner was presented with his official certificate by Mr. Gerardo Quesada, Harris Paints Regional Exports Manager, at a brief ceremony on Friday 3rd May 2024, at the TDC Home and Building Depot (the authorized agents and distributors for Harris Paints) on the Frigate Bay Road in Basseterre.
Picture – Mr. Leslie Warner receiving his MPI Certificate in Architectural Coatings Technology from Mr. Gerado Quesada, Harris Paints Regional Exports Manager at the TDC Home and Building Depot on St. Kitts
The TDC Financial Services Company Limited (formerly the St. Kitts Nevis Finance Company Limited – FINCO) will celebrate thirty (30) years of providing financial solutions in the Federation, on Wednesday 25th April 2024.
To commemorate this significant milestone, the company will be hosting a week-long celebration of activities that will begin on Monday 22nd April. These will include School Presentations, Community Outreach Day, Customer Appreciation Day, Radio Promotional Interviews (TDC Financial Services Then and Now) and a Staff Retreat at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort to honour its dedicated staff members.
Reflecting on the journey, Mr. Steve Farier, the General Manager, expressed profound gratitude, stating, “TDC Financial Services Company Limited is honoured to be celebrating three decades of service to the people of St. Kitts and Nevis. Throughout the years, we have remained committed to listening to our customers, expanding our product offerings, and providing financial guidance. Our success would not have been possible without the trust and loyalty of our valued customers, for which we a very grateful.”
He added, “We remain steadfast in our mission to empower individuals and businesses with comprehensive financial solutions, guided by principles of excellence, integrity, and customer satisfaction. As we look to the future, our focus will continue to be on innovation and customer-centricity. We are committed to introducing new initiatives that add value to our customers to meet their evolving needs.”
The TDC Financial Services Company Limited started its operations in St. Kitts on 25th April 1994, on Central Street in Basseterre. One year later, it expanded its footprint, opening a branch in Charlestown, Nevis, on June 26th, 1995, further extending its reach and impact across the Federation.
Picture – Mr. Steve Farier, General Manager, TDC Financial Services Company Limited advising a customer at the TDC Financial Services Company Limited office on Central Street in Basseterre
Over seventy-five women across the St. Kitts and Nevis are now equipped with the knowledge and empowered to use their newly acquired skills in basic Car Care and Welding, thanks to a partnership between the TDC Group of Companies and the Departments of Gender Affairs.
The collaboration between the TDC Automotive Divisions, TDC Home and Building Depots, and the Ministries of Social Development and Gender Affairs, started in the month of March, International Women’s Month, and wrapped up on Saturday 13th April 2024.
The theory and practical sessions were facilitated by a team of trained and certified professionals from within and outside the company, who used their combined years of experience and expertise to conduct the highly interactive sessions. Each participant garnered the basic skills of vehicle diagnostics, along with various welding techniques, and safety protocols.
According to Mr. Kashka Thompson, the TDC Client Relations and Marketing Manager, TDC is thrilled to partner with the Departments of Gender Affairs to offer women the chance to explore and learn. By equipping women with the skill sets and knowledge, we are not only promoting gender equality, but we are also helping to break barriers and promote gender inclusivity by inspiring them.”
He also noted, “This partnership also addresses the gender gap prevalent in technical professions and give women the opportunity to acquire practical skills, gain hands-on experience, and even pursue fulfilling careers in these fields contribute to the growth and development of the economy.”
With the success of the two training sessions, calls are already being made for similar training in electricity, tiling, and woodwork.
Picture – Mr. Anthony Nisbett, Manager TDC Automotive Division facilitating the session on Basic Car Care at the TDC Automotive Division at Pinney’s Industrial Estate on Nevis
