Updated: January 23, 2023
Ask ACE: Train your employees using cost-effective workforce development resources
By Priscilla Hansen Mahoney, Blazing Trails Coaching LLC
Q: What’s the best way to get my employees the training they desperately need, without blowing our budget, and by using our time and resources effectively?
ACE Advises: Many companies do not understand that time and resources spent on training have a significant return. A study by the Association for Talent Development found that organizations that invest in workforce training experienced a 24% higher profit margin than those that did not.
Employers still said the primary reason they do not train is insufficient time and money. Luckily, there are training programs that are cost-effective — even free — and provide a great return on investment on your time.
Create a list of what your employees need to be safe, successful, and skilled. Check state laws regarding what training is mandatory for your industry, and for continuing education requirements necessary to uphold licensing and certifications.
Here is a short list of providers you can contact to arrange for free or low-cost training.
Your workers compensation insurer: Many insurance companies provide free or low-cost safety training because it’s a win-win.You get low-cost or free training (and often lower premiums), and they reduce future claims.
Equipment dealers often provide free training on safe use, operation and maintenance.
OSHA: The Occupational Safety and Health Adminstration’s mission is to ensure safe working conditions for workers. It sets and enforces standards and provides training and education.
Training grants: There is a Maine training grant available for frontline workers. The grant provides of up to $1,200 in matching funds per frontline worker from 2023-25. Information is available on the Maine Community College Workforce Development Compact website, at mccs.me.edu/workforce-training/maine-workforce-development-compact.
While training your workforce is vital to employee engagement and satisfaction, it is imperative to get your managers and leaders on board. Investing resources into creating systems, processes and leadership development will help you get the most for your training dollars.
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