Master StoveBuilder Training Program
Through the construction and careful study of almost 1000 new Justa model cookstoves, the exploration of new regions, and the establishment of relationships across Central America, we believe we have now developed a powerful training program that will enable our project in Guatemala to grow dramatically during 2022. This new program, called Maestros Comaleros (Master StoveBuilders), will enable StoveTeam to train and empower local people to build cookstoves in their own communities, through an entrepreneurial model that provides autonomy and flexibility. At the same time, this system will allow StoveTeam to sustainably scale the project outward through a system that relies on the strengths of the individual, rather than the support of the organization.
Description & History: Maestros Comaleros
The Maestros Comaleros method is based on a program that has made cookstoves possible for hundreds of thousands of people in Honduras over the past 20 years, under the guidance of StoveTeam’s partner organizations, AHDESA and Trees, Water & People. We worked with both organizations during 2021 to adapt the system for our project in Guatemala, and in 2022 our efforts are dedicated to proving this concept for the Guatemalan market.
Maestros Comaleros Academy Program
We are delighted to unveil our Maestros Comaleros Academy Program, a remarkable initiative that goes beyond simply building fuel-efficient cookstoves. It's a program that's centered on creating positive change, fostering opportunities, and transforming lives within the communities and regions we serve.
Our Program Mission: Fueling Positive Change At StoveTeam International, our core mission is to improve the lives of people living in Central America through the placement of fuel-efficient cookstoves. We recognize that achieving this mission requires more than just distributing stoves—it calls for empowering individuals within these communities.
Training, Mentorship, and Fair Wage Employment: The Maestros Comaleros Academy Program is designed to provide comprehensive support to individuals in these communities. It encompasses training, mentorship, and equitable, fair-wage employment opportunities. Here's how it works:
Training at Maestros Comaleros Academy: Trainees undergo an intensive three-day training program at StoveTeam's Maestros Comaleros Academy. Those who display exceptional skill and comprehension are selected to participate in the program.
Three-Month Contract: Successful trainees are offered a three-month contract as Stovebuilders. They work alongside four other Stovebuilders and are assigned to a specific region. Their mission is to build bases and stoves in selected homes.
Work and Rest: Stovebuilders are on-site for twenty-one days, constructing stoves. After this period, they enjoy a week's break to rest and spend time at home, recovering from the demanding work of stove building.
The Impact of a Stovebuilder: In just one month (two active weeks of construction), one Stovebuilder can construct ten stoves. When a team of five Stovebuilders works together, they build a remarkable 50 stoves in one month. Over the course of a three-month contract, one Stovebuilder constructs a total of thirty stoves.
Purpose: Building a Sustainable Future StoveTeam International places a high priority on retaining Stovebuilders. We understand that the best way to retain them is by providing continuous work. The key challenge in sustaining this effort is securing consistent funding for stove construction.
Cost Breakdown for One Stove Builder:
$500 - Maestros Comaleros training for one Stovebuilder
$2,000 - One month of steady work, resulting in 10 stoves
$6,000 - Three-month contract, leading to 30 stoves
$12,000 - Six-month contract, yielding 60 stoves
$24,500 - Steady work for one Maestros Comaleros builder for one year, contributing to the construction of 120 stoves
