Written by Denise Beaver
Most business owners realize that their company is only as strong as their employees. Team members are often the face of the business interacting with customers daily whether in person, on the phone, or through email. In a manufacturing setting, team members play a critical role in performing precision tasks to meet strict quality control measures and production goals. So, it is vitally important to invest in training your team members to meet your performance expectations and deliver positive customer interactions.
Fortunately for Carroll firms, Carroll County Workforce Development (CCWD) has several virtual and in-person employee training options. Assessment, recruitment, and training services are provided at no charge and an initial employee skill assessment is a good place to start.
CCWD offers SHL Assessments for businesses to evaluate employee assignments and training needs. There are literally thousands of science-backed assessments to evaluate cognitive ability, personality, behavior, skills, and more. Customized assessment packages can be developed to meet your needs with test results delivered directly to your inbox.
Once you have an idea of the employees’ skill levels there are free online training options through 180 Skills my.skillslearning.net. Originally developed for manufacturing training, 180 Skills offers learning paths which are a string of courses that develop skills in communication, team building, customer service, Microsoft products, manufacturing, diversity in the workplace, etc. The platform offers a study guide, course options, and results. Employees may revisit the site to review the concepts as needed. Business owners easily track employee progress and assign new learning paths.
Individual or group customized employee training may also qualify for Incumbent Worker training cost sharing. Ideally, this training leads to a recognized industry credential for identified in-demand industries. This training requires advanced planning and approval prior to the training taking place to earmark the funding. Training providers may be approved company vendors or local training providers like Carroll Community College.
On-The-Job Training (OJT) is employer-based workforce development. The purpose is to help employers reduce training costs in occupations where skilled, qualified workers are not available. Businesses are provided a direct reimbursement of the trainee’s hourly starting wage during on-the-job training contract; trainees must work 20 or more hours per week. Trainees must be eligible according to the CCWD funding guidelines and regulations. Training funds, training duration, and other provisions are outlined in a fixed-price contract. Reimbursement is done monthly and based on 50% of the trainee’s wage. Contracts must be signed and approved prior to the start of the OJT training. Training time is based upon the specific vocational preparation time established by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Registered apprenticeships are another solid way to build your future workforce. Work-based learning along with classroom instruction ensures new employees are learning and applying specific job skills. CCWD will help you to establish an apprentice program for adults or youth.
See Apprenticeships in Maryland (carrollworks.com).
CCWD Business Consultant Scott Singleton is your first call at 410-386-2521 or email ssingleton@carrollcountymd.gov to discuss and begin any of these business training services. Strengthen your team through assessment and training today!
