Clark State, McGregor Metal work together on class that puts people to work, improves their skills

What’s happening:  A search for a way to meet the need to improve the skill level of McGregor Metal’s growing technical workforce has developed into an innovative partnership with Clark State College Workforce and Business Solutions. The collaboration grew out of McGregor’s struggle to provide on-the-job training for the company’s associates as it did not have the resources to spare to do so.

Clark State accepted McGregor’s challenge to establish a QuickPath learning model. Within weeks, McGregor and Clark State developed a curriculum and scheduled classes, enrolling McGregor’s first group of associates just two weeks later. With the Learn-to-Earn model, McGregor Metal has successfully established a pathway for employees with the aptitude and desire to grow in their careers. The training takes place twice a week for four weeks at the Clark State main campus in Springfield. McGregor plans to continue enrolling associates as long as the need exists. Currently, there are still associates on the waitlist.

Why it’s important: Since McGregor Metal’s first custom Weld Tech class in April of last year, the company has had 23 associates either complete or are currently enrolled in the 32-hour course. Of those 23 associates, 87 percent of them are still employed with McGregor. Class content is based on McGregor’s specific training and equipment needs and associates are allowed to participate both in the classroom and through hands-on experiences. 

What they’re saying: “I think this success is a testament to our ongoing commitment to identify gaps and developing partnerships with those who are willing to think outside the box to help fill them, like Clark State’s Workforce Development team,” says Erin Neely, training coordinator at McGregor Metal. “Clark State’s Workforce Development team seamlessly continues to help us up-skill our workforce and provides additional opportunities like Leadership and Blueprint Reading classes. McGregor Metal looks forward to our ongoing partnership and finding more ways to engage our associates,” says Neely.

Who it helps: Dalton Daniel, a McGregor employee and recent participant in the custom weld course, said he enjoyed participating in the program. “I could immediately use the skills I learned, like moving the robot the right way and making simple adjustments,” he said. “The instructor was easy to follow, and I liked being in the classroom.” 

The power of collaboration: “Clark State workforce development works to meet the training needs of our industry partners,” said Tracy Yates, director of Clark State Workforce and Business Solutions. “The success of the training partnership between McGregor and Clark State is a testament to the power of collaboration.”

Clark State College details: Founded in 1962, Clark State College has campuses in Springfield, Beavercreek, Xenia, and Bellefontaine, Ohio. Clark State offers the latest associate and bachelor degrees, certificates, and transfer options in more than 130 professional fields. The economic impact of Clark State on Champaign, Clark, Greene, and Logan counties is more than $161 million annually. Enrollment is open year-round, and financial aid and Foundation scholarships are available for those who qualify. Registration for the next academic term is open here. 

Source: Clark State College