Winona State University Adult & Continuing Education (ACE) invited regional business professionals to participate in the Navigating the Workplace Landscape Cruise event aboard the WSU Cal Fremling floating classroom. Attendees gained valuable insights on workforce learning trends and benefited from networking with other employers.
Business professionals shared their experiences about workplace training programs they have participated in within their organization and what did or didn’t work well for their team. The group continued with an open exchange of ideas on how employees’ soft skills play a critical role in the success of their teams. Interpersonal skills including effective communication, active listening, collaboration and teamwork were agreed to be vital skills which can be taught and modeled. The term “power skills” is preferred over “soft skills”, as these are essential skills which impact productivity and the bottom line. Lastly, the group discussed what types of proof of learning are important from certificates for skill-based learning, to digital badges which improve motivation and allow sharing of accomplishments.
Attendees represented a diverse mix of business sectors from manufacturing, government, healthcare, retail, economic development and education. Geographically, the group represented communities in the region including Rochester, Winona, Spring Grove, Lewiston, and Arcadia, Wisconsin. In response to the attendees’ feedback, WSU ACE will be adapting and growing our continuing education offerings to assure our training is responsive and meets employers’ needs. ACE is committed to help employers align their organization’s strategic goals with their workforce training goals to increase employee satisfaction, productivity, and quality outcomes.
To learn more about how WSU ACE can address the specific needs of your team, contact Julie Kiehne, Business Outreach Coordinator, 507.457.5088
jk*****@wi****.edu
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