FAQ
- When was the Construction and Maintenance (CAM) department created?
- What do CAM workers build and maintain?
- How many people work with CAM?
- Where does CAM provide support services?
- Does CAM partner with other organizations?
- How do CAM workers equip local people to partner in translation support work?
- What is a "general maintenance technician"?
- What is the CAM training program?
- What help does the CAM department need most?
- Can I volunteer for short-term projects with CAM?
- Can I volunteer part-time with CAM?
- When was the Construction and Maintenance (CAM) department created?
The CAM department was created in 1972. However, in the early 1950s there were already career missionaries with Wycliffe Bible Translators devoted specifically to construction and maintenance tasks.
- What do CAM workers build and maintain?
Our workers build housing and language facilities for translation teams throughout the world. We also provide a wide range of maintenance services—from general groundskeeping to major repairs on village homes. In addition, CAM personnel handle projects such as:
- Installing systems for clean-water collection.
- Constructing simple furniture.
- Maintaining generators.
- Repairing vehicles.
We are also working with JAARS Global Information Technology Services to branch into the use of solar energy.
- How many people work with CAM?
Currently, about 75 career missionaries with Wycliffe Bible Translators serve in CAM-related positions throughout the world. In addition, more than 25 regular and seasonal volunteers serve at the JAARS Center in Waxhaw, N.C.
- Where does CAM provide support services?
We provide support services to translation teams throughout the world. Many of our personnel currently serve in:
- Cameroon
- Bangui, Central African Republic
- Philippines
- Ukarumpa, Papua New Guinea
- Does CAM partner with other organizations?
Yes. We often partner with Wycliffe Associates to organize short-term volunteer projects. Our personnel also work alongside many other organizations as they build and maintain facilities worldwide.
- How do CAM workers equip local people to partner in translation support work?
One of our primary goals is to equip local people to partner in our work. CAM personnel often work hand-in-hand with local people during building projects, teaching them practical construction and maintenance skills.
- What is a "general maintenance technician"?
A general maintenance technician is someone who maintains the facilities at a particular translation center. He or she keeps the facilities in working order, which allows translators to spend more time on their language work.
- What is the CAM training program?
The CAM training program is a 14-week course taught at the JAARS Center in Waxhaw, N.C. It is designed for career missionaries with Wycliffe Bible Translators who will be serving in CAM-related positions overseas. The course is usually held in the spring and fall, and covers trade skills such as:
- Masonry
- Auto mechanics
- Appliance repair
- Carpentry
- Welding
- Electrical installation
- What help does the CAM department need most?
Currently, our greatest need is for general maintenance technicians. We are also in need of auto mechanics for gas and diesel engines. To learn more about these positions, as well as other service opportunities with CAM, please submit our online contact form.
- Can I volunteer for short-term projects with CAM?
Yes. We have many short-term volunteer opportunities, both overseas and in the United States. If you are interested in volunteering for a short-term project, please submit our online contact form.
- Can I volunteer part-time with CAM?
Yes. We have many regular volunteers at the JAARS Center in Waxhaw, N.C., and we would welcome your service. If you are interested in volunteering with CAM, please submit our online contact form.