Getting started

Over the past year or so, we've been trying to draw your attention to-the problem. That is, the shortage of skilled workers now and into the future.

By Richard L. Dunn, Editor August 1, 2000

Over the past year or so, we’ve been trying to draw your attention to-the problem. That is, the shortage of skilled workers now and into the future. We’ve provided some data on the subject and discussed the need to get involved in training and educational activities.

Being a magazine that has prided itself on providing potential solutions when we talk about problems, we’ve been working on providing some real help.

We’re pleased to announce now that we have three opportunities for you to get started in helping yourself and your workers.

Here’s just a little information about each program and where to find out more:

PlantSkills 2000, September 25-27, Oak Brook, IL. Plant Engineering has teamed with Industrial Maintenance & Plant Operation magazine and the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council to produce a conference on critical skills training and development. For those faced with organizing a training program-or improving an existing one-this conference will help. Cost is $995 before August 15, $1295 after that date. For a brochure, call me at 630-320-7141. To register, call 800-537-2683.

Management Skills for Maintenance Team Leaders, Supervisors, and Managers is a web-based, 12-week class that features an instructor, weekly assignments, and chat rooms with other maintenance professionals. Instruction and study will help you learn ways to better plan your work, improve morale within your department, and improve employees’ performance and efficiency. The course is conducted by Life Cycle Engineering, Inc., in cooperation with Plant Engineering and Butterworth-Heinemann. Class begins September 15. Tuition is $995 (25% discount until September 1). For information, visit www.technical train.com/introclass sched. htm.

Total Plant Performance Management is also a 12-week, web-based program developed by instructor Keith Mobley and Life Cycle Engineering in cooperation with Plant Engineering and Butterworth-Heinemann. The course teaches a method for achieving continuous improvement for the entire plant through equipment reliability, resource utilization, employee skills, and corporate culture. Class begins September 15. Tuition is $995 (25% discount until September 1). For information, visit www. technicaltrain.com/introclass sched.htm.

We think these opportunities will provide a start toward developing solutions to workforce problems.