Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus and the Professional Development Institute of Arkansas Tech have partnered to provide customized training to several area industries. Those industries impacted through this training include members of the Johnson County Workforce Training Consortium, members of the Russellville Industry Council, Baldor in Ozark, AR, and Green Bay Packaging in Morrilton, AR.
The training was made possible through the Arkansas Incumbent Worker Training Program (IWTP). IWTP under the federal Workforce Investment Act provides funding for innovative training projects that will benefit business and industry by assisting the skill development of incumbent workers, thereby increasing employee opportunities and company growth and productivity. Training in portable skills results in a more highly skilled and versatile workforce that contributes to Arkansas’ ability to attract new business and creates an environment conducive to expansion.
Funding for projects in which Arkansas Tech will participate exceeds $200,000. Over 40 training events will be held in 2010 and 2011 in the Arkansas River Valley. Training topics include leadership skills, computer skills, electrical skills, safety, National Electric Code, Lean manufacturing, and many other industry specific areas.
“One of our primary training goals is to enhance leadership skills, which are a key to success in any business. The curriculum we are using is Achieve Global’s “Achieving Results Through Genuine Leadership” is a system of training and consulting anchored by the premise that individuals achieve genuine leadership by demonstrating five qualities of leadership: collaborative, inventive, skilled, visionary and mindful,” said Jeff Aulgur.
“The Arkansas Incumbent Worker Training program is an excellent example of a private-public partnership for the betterment of the workforce and the community,” stated Ken Warden. “Any private for-profit or private non-profit business that has been in operation in the State of Arkansas and is current on all state tax obligations are eligible”.
The Business and Industry Program and Professional Institute specialize in “just-in-time” customized training to prepare individuals, industries and organizations to compete in the new economy. For additional information on customized industry training through the IWTP program or additional professional development opportunities and grants available in the region contact Jeff Aulgur at (479) 964-0541 or jaulgur@atu.edu; Ken Warden at (479) 209-3719 or kwarden@atu.edu or visit the Professional Development Institute at http://lakepoint.atu.edu.
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