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Metthier Academy Empowers Skilled Professionals for the AI Era
Amid growing concerns that AI will replace human jobs—especially among blue-collar workers—“Metthier Academy,” the training institute of Metthier Co., Ltd., a provider of integrated smart property and facility management services, is taking a different approach. Instead of replacing people, the company is “upgrading” its workforce of over 12,000 employees into highly skilled professionals equipped with intelligent technologies.
This initiative reinforces the idea that advanced technology reaches its full potential only when driven by continuously developed human capabilities.
Kayon Tantichatiwat, Chief Executive Officer of Metthier Co., Ltd., explained that the foundation of Metthier Academy began when the company introduced technology to enhance service operations alongside frontline staff such as security guards and cleaning personnel. The challenge quickly became clear: while Thai workers have strong potential, service-related knowledge remains fragmented. As Metthier expanded across industries, it became evident that each sector requires highly specific service standards.
“Metthier Academy was not created merely as a training center. Our goal is to reshape the perception of Thai labor. For example, a security guard should not simply stand at an entrance, but should be a professional capable of using AI for surveillance, risk detection, and incident response in accordance with international protocols,” Kayon said.
He added that personnel can further upskill into “Premium Guards,” capable of protecting VIPs and managing large-scale events such as international sports competitions and global conferences. This aligns with Thailand’s ambition to become a leading MICE destination, while also strengthening investor confidence by ensuring the country has a highly capable workforce and security infrastructure to support large-scale industries.
Tailored Training Programs for Eight Key Industries
These competencies require structured and intensive training. Metthier Academy has therefore developed specialized programs tailored to the needs of eight industries: residential, healthcare, education, retail, office buildings, government agencies, large-scale industrial estates, and public transportation.
The academy trains a wide range of roles, including security personnel (from general officers to airport security), technical specialists in safety systems, cleaning staff, electricians, building technicians, catering staff, and landscape maintenance personnel.
In addition to a 40-hour foundational training program, all employees must complete role-specific courses. Current training modules include airport security operations, waste segregation, energy-saving operations, hospital sanitation (including ICU and inpatient/outpatient areas), and biohazard handling.
Metthier Academy is also authorized to issue certifications in First Aid and CPR & AED training, a key differentiator from typical facility management and security service providers.
“Thailand is now an aging society, and physical limitations are becoming more evident in the workforce. Tasks that can be handled by technology should be. However, service roles still require people. Our goal is to train personnel to work alongside technology as effectively as possible,” Kayon explained.
He highlighted that Metthier was among the first to introduce cleaning robots. Today, local workers who previously had limited opportunities are being upskilled to operate these robots in major locations such as mass transit stations.
Expanding Opportunities Nationwide and Supporting Talent from the Ground Up
The facility management industry is currently facing a labor shortage. Metthier Academy addresses this challenge from the root by partnering with nine educational institutions to provide scholarships and implement work-integrated learning programs.
These initiatives enable underprivileged students to earn income while studying and secure stable career paths upon graduation.
In addition to its Bangkok headquarters, Metthier Academy has expanded to key regions, including Chonburi, a major industrial hub; Chiang Mai, serving northern Thailand and critical infrastructure such as the Mae Moh power plant; and most recently Phuket, to support the rapid growth of the wellness and hospitality sectors, which are expected to be major contributors to Thailand’s GDP.
Each location is equipped with command centers and workforce support units to ensure consistent service standards nationwide.
Building a Sustainable Future Through Workforce Data Integration
The long-term vision of Metthier Academy is to develop a comprehensive “Blue-collar Workforce Database.” The company aims to expand its workforce from 12,000 to 20,000 employees within the next 3–5 years.
This database will function as a centralized job-matching platform, aligning workers’ skills with suitable employment opportunities across industries. Employees will undergo structured assessments to support career progression—from building supervisors to facility managers—while enabling geographic mobility, allowing individuals to work closer to their hometowns without sacrificing career growth.
“Entry-level operational staff may begin at minimum wage, but we are committed to showing that every role offers growth potential. With the right skills, employees can advance in their careers and increase their income. Our mission is to empower Thai workers to grow, succeed, and achieve better opportunities,” Kayon concluded.