COMET Training Program – Industrial Sales and Distribution

Job Description

Sales and Management Trainee – COMET | Applied Industrial Technologies

The Tone:
This is a full-time training role at Applied Industrial Technologies, an award-winning program located across its various service center locations. Founded in 1923, Applied Industrial Technologies is a leading value-added distributor and technical solutions provider of industrial motion, fluid power, flow control, automation technologies, and related maintenance supplies, serving MRO and OEM end users across virtually all industrial markets. This COMET program is designed for individuals seeking a challenging role in the sales and distribution of industrial components, offering a fast-track path to learn the business from the ground up. The program has a proven track record of producing sales professionals and leaders, including local, national, and regional managers, and even vice presidents within the company.

The TL;DR
• Role: Early Career
• Type: Full-time
• Location: In-person, various service center locations

• Mission: To develop foundational knowledge and practical skills in industrial component sales and distribution, preparing individuals for leadership roles within the company.

What You’ll Actually Do
• Engage in Training: Participate in a 10-month personalized training and coaching program designed to immerse you in the sales and distribution of industrial components, learning the business from the ground up.
• Develop Core Skills: Receive comprehensive product training and soft skills instruction in sales, communications, and customer service, delivered through one-on-one sessions, small group activities, web-based modules, and practical on-the-job experiences.
• Understand Operations & Culture: Become familiar with the company’s established sales and operations processes, advanced technology, and a robust company culture that emphasizes customer satisfaction, personal mastery, and significant individual and team contributions.
• Pursue Leadership: Prepare for and advance into future leadership positions within Applied, with potential career paths including sales professional, local manager, national account manager, regional manager, or vice president. The program runs from September to May, but flexible start dates are available.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Bachelor’s degree required for this Entry-Level career opportunity.
• Experience: Must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain a clean driving record.
• Skills: Demonstrated strong desire to build a career in sales, a mechanical interest, a results-oriented mindset, strong attention to detail, and good time management skills.
• Bonus: Preferred qualifications include an internship or related work experience in a customer-facing role, proven leadership skills, or a Bachelor’s degree specifically in Business, Engineering Technology, or Communications.