Strategic Development Program Trainee

Job Description

As a Strategic Development Program (SDP) Trainee, you won’t just learn the business — you’ll be preparing to lead it. This immersive, multi-phase program is designed to give you a 360° view of EMCO’s Fire Protection division and the tools to step into a future leadership role.

From the ground up, you’ll rotate through key areas of our business, gaining hands-on experience and mentorship in logistics, operations, sales, and account management. By the end of the program, you’ll be ready to take ownership of your career path — whether that means managing a Profit Centre, leading a sales team, or driving operations strategy.

What You’ll Experience

Phase 1 – Warehouse & Logistics

• Master our products, supply chain, and customer fulfillment process

• Build an understanding of sales support and the importance of operational excellence

Phase 2 – Operations & Business Fundamentals

• Engage in customer service, order management, counter sales, and inventory control

• Learn pricing strategies, credit management, and financial reporting essentials

Phase 3 – Inside Sales & Project Management

• Support customers with product and service needs

• Take ownership of projects, from quoting through to delivery, ensuring timelines and budgets are met

Phase 4 – Outside Sales & Account Management

• Identify new business opportunities and grow customer relationships

• Learn to sell strategically, negotiate effectively, and build strong partnerships with vendors and contractors

Phase 5 – Career Path Acceleration

• Combine your training, skills, and experience to determine your ideal role within EMCO

• Launch into a career track with opportunities in leadership, operations, or sales management

This program is more than a training opportunity — it’s the foundation for a long-term career in an industry that protects lives and shapes skylines.

Qualifications

What You Bring

• Post-secondary education (College or University degree) or equivalent combination of education and experience

• A growth mindset — eager to learn, adapt, and continuously improve

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build meaningful relationships with customers, vendors, and teammates

• Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, with a drive to find solutions and deliver results

• Entrepreneurial spirit — proactive, accountable, and motivated to take ownership of challenges and opportunities

• Collaborative mindset, but equally comfortable working independently and taking initiative

• Organizational and time management skills to balance competing priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Digital fluency — comfortable using Microsoft Office and quick to adopt new technology, tools, and systems

• A high standard of integrity and professionalism with a strong work ethic

Additional Information

Compensation: Competitive entry-level base salary, comprehensive benefits, and participation in our profit-sharing program.

Salary Range: $45,000-$65,000