For those that are unaware, I work for Verizon, in the directory assistance field. I’m a supervisor, which means that from time to time I have the opportunity to teach the initial training class for new hires.

I had my first class today. It was mildly nerve-wracking, but also a bit exciting. Training is something that I’ve wanted to do for a couple of years now, and it’s nice to finally have that opportunity.

I only have a couple of complaints, and really they’re kind of minor. First off, I have to spend a lot more time on my feet than I’m used to. As you can imagine, my job usually involves sitting at a computer terminal for several hours, and I’m a little bit out of shape. During the class I have to walk around and check to see that the students are learning the procedures carefully, and keying information in properly.

The other aspect that’s not so great is the training room is kind of small, stuffy, and at this time of year, hot. I went through my bottle of water much faster than I normally do — in fact, I had to refill it during our final break and I still ended up draining it.

Even with these (relatively minor) discomforts, I’ve got a good group of trainees, and I expect all three of them to make it through the 2-week program.

PS — Over at the right there you’ll see a countdown timer to Snakes on a Plane, a film coming out in August that has already attained cult status. I apologize for the occasional hissing sound that comes out of it (intrusive audio banners are annoying, I agree) — but it’s the only banner avaialble right now that fits my site design.

If you aren’t familiar with the story arond this film, do a quick search on Google and read the relevant articles. I’m not going to belabor the point here, but in brief, It’s a movie starring Samuel L. Jackson about snakes on a mother-f$&@ing plane! Do I really need to say anything else?