In the fall of 2003, Conestoga College , in conjunction with the Industrial Committee of the Guelph Chamber of Commerce, began offering a new program targeted directly to supervisors in the manufacturing sector. Entitled the Manufacturing Leadership Certificate Program (MLCP), it provides relevant knowledge and skills in subject areas such as teamwork, coaching techniques, health and safety, and tools for continuous improvement as well as relevant computer applications skills. Don Salterelli who has facilitated the Chamber-sponsored classes in Guelph , remarks “From an instructor's point of view, it's very gratifying to see the progressive development of knowledge and skills among new and experienced supervisors alike. This program is a positive influence that will help them become more competent and skilled in their jobs.”
The program content is spread across six 30-hour courses. Each course is a stand alone segment that gives participants the option of enrolling in just one course or all six. The MLCP, developed by a group of five community colleges (Conestoga, Georgian, Mohawk, Niagara, and Sheridan ) as well as manufacturing experts and the Alliance of Manufacturers and Exporters Canada (AMEC), has had over 12,000 participants province-wide.
Geoff Pantling, President of Arrow Hose & Tubing Inc. described his company's experience as follows: “The participants from our organization have been very enthusiastic about the training received in the Manufacturing Leadership Certificate Program. For most, this is their first exposure to this type of training. They have gained valuable insight into the different aspects of being a supervisor. They now have a better understanding of business practices, workplace legislation, communication and handling day-to-day issues.” Participants from other companies include Blount Canada , Teutech, Eastwood Printing, Fastforms, Prominent Fluids, Owens Corning, Trelleborg and several other organizations. The classes are held at the Guelph Campus of Conestoga College, on Mondays from 4-7 pm.
Ian Smith, President & CAO of the Guelph Chamber of Commerce, states “The Chamber and its industrial employer members have been very pleased with the training provided by Conestoga in its Manufacturing Leadership Certificate Program (MLCP). The classes are practical and provide hands-on instruction for the needs of first line leaders in today's competitive environment”.
For more information about the program visit
www.manufacturingleadership.com or for a registration form please contact chicks@conestogac.on.ca or telephone 519-748-5220, ext. 3764.