Manufacturers’ Association to Honor 126 Graduates

Press Releases/Letters to the Editor

ERIE – With all the talk of a skills gap and the need for a community college, some Erie businesses are going the extra mile to educate their work force. The Manufacturers’ Association is pleased to acknowledge those employers and their 126 employees who have graduated from the Association’s training certificate programs, during a special Recognition Ceremony, starting at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 1, at the Association’s Conference Center, 2171 West 38th Street. All media are invited to attend.

The evening’s honorees, who represent 54 area companies, have completed one of the Association’s certificate programs including Supervisory Skills Series, Leadership for Team Leaders Series, Strategic Management Series, HR Essential Certification Series or Computer Software Specialist Series. Graduates work in manufacturing, health care and service fields throughout the Association’s 17-county membership and include small companies as well as some of the area’s largest employers.

“Today’s employers demand a highly skilled workforce and the Manufacturers’ Association training programs provide the expertise to meet those needs,” said Association Director of Training Dan Monaghan. “Our tailored instruction enables employees to return to work with knowledge and skills that they can apply at their respective companies. The return on investment is immediate.”

The Association continues to be a leader in northwest Pennsylvania for employer-based training. From professional development to computer training, the Association offers an interactive, engaging style of learning. And with more than 20,000 participants trained, the Association has a proven track record of success. Participants either attend courses in Erie at the Association Conference Center or at one of 10 regional sites that include Bradford, Butler, Clarion, Corry, Grove City, Kittanning, Meadville, New Castle, St. Marys and Warren.

Supervisory Skills Series
The Certified Supervisory Skills Series is a nationally recognized five-course certification program designed exclusively for supervisors who want to enhance their knowledge and skills to become a more effective leader in today’s complex work environment. Topics covered include performance evaluation, motivation, communication, problem-solving and conflict resolution.

Leadership for Team Leaders Series
The Leadership for Team Leaders Series is a five-course certification program designed exclusively for employees who are being asked to lead for the first times in their career. Topics covered include a leader’s role, communication, motivation, problem-solving and diversity.

Strategic Management Series
Designed for mid- to senior-level managers, the Strategic Management Certification Series is an advanced program led by experienced, real-world practitioners. By focusing on the principles of superior leadership, participants will build upon existing abilities, master new strengths and advance their communication, coaching, financial management, legal and information technology skills.

HR Essential Certification Series
Department managers along with new and experience human resource professionals gain a clear understanding of today's complex labor laws in this five-part series. Topics include Job Descriptions, Interviewing and Hiring, Compensation programs, Recordkeeping and Terminations.

Computer Software Specialist Series
This certificate program gives participants a solid knowledge of computer techniques and information systems. Students learn the fastest, most effective way to utilize Windows, Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint.