Author: Candace Boahene

Alber Enterprise Center honors organizations for outstanding leadership

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(from left) Anne Johnson, Program Manager, Kathryn Brod, President & CEO of LeadingAge Ohio (award recipient), Myra Wilson, Program Director of Alber Enterprise Center (AEC) presented Brod with the Outstanding Achievement and Excellence Award for Collaboration in Framing the Future of Long-Term Care Services. Brod accepted the award for her leadership and continued efforts in assisting AEC and the LTSS consortium with an in-depth look in implementing solutions for the long-term care industry.

Four Ohio organizations and a Michigan consultant were recently honored for their outstanding impact in leadership by The Ohio State University’s Alber Enterprise Center.

The honorees were:  LeadingAge Ohio of Columbus, National Church Residences of Columbus, Uni-Grip, Inc, of Upper Sandusky, Cowen Truck Line, Inc. of Perrysville, and Performance Innovation, LLC of Novi, MI.

Each organization has partnered with the Alber Enterprise Center (AEC) to examine organizational challenges in their respective industries, streamline processes to enhance work flow, and/or receive executive training customized to suit their company needs.

LeadingAge Ohio, Columbus, received the Outstanding Achievement and Excellence Award for Collaboration in Framing the Future of Long-Term Care Services.  LeadingAge Ohio’s outstanding leadership over the course of the past year helped AEC make significant in-roads in identifying organizational challenges in long term services and support.  President & CEO of LeadingAge Ohio, Columbus, Kathryn Brod accepted the award.  Kathryn actively participated in AEC’s Long-Term Services & Supports (LTSS) Consortium and subsequently brought the activities of the consortium under the wing of the HR committee of the LeadingAge Ohio Board of Directors.  These continued efforts will assist AEC and the consortium to take an in-depth look in developing solutions that will make an impact for years to come.  In addition, Brod is a champion in maintaining the partnership between both organizations in moving forward and making an impact on front-line supervisors through their Leadership Challenge® workshops.

National Church Residences, Columbus, received Outstanding Achievement and Excellence Award for Collaboration in Framing the Future of Long-Term Care Services.  National Church Residences’ participation in AEC’s LTSS consortium and their efforts in implementing solutions to revitalize the long-term services and supports for elder care will impact this industry over the course of time.  Moreover, some of the staff’s involvement in AEC’s The BRIDGE facilitator training refined their facilitation process.

Uni-Grip, Inc., Upper Sandusky, received the Investment in Quality Management Systems award.  Uni-Grip’s financial investment in their quality systems and action steps to track measurements of key performance indicators led to their growth.  Within eight months of intense focus on change, a few of Uni-Grip’s impacts were:  reduction in weekly scrap, increase in yearly sales, reduction of past due orders and improvements in staff’s knowledge and awareness in all of these areas.

Cowen Truck Line, Inc., Perrysville, received Outstanding Achievement and Excellence Award for Positive Impact on Business from The BRIDGE: Issue Management Process.  Cowen’s successful utilization of AEC’s BRIDGE Process created the foundation that resulted in crafting a plan to take their organization into the next 40 years to serve their customers. A few areas that have been impacted include: hired new drivers, increased sales in 2015, and enhanced communication with drivers.

Performance Innovation, LLC, Novi, MI received the Outstanding Educational Partner Award for Excellence in Service to the Voice of the Customer.  The outstanding leadership and customer service Performance Innovation, LLC displayed over time helped AEC make an impact with their clientele.  President of Performance Innovation, LLC, Norma Simons accepted the award.  As one of AEC’s most valued educational partners, Simons exhibits great comprehension of Lean Six Sigma and skillfully communicates its complexity in a manner that is clearly understood by her class participants. In addition, Simons’ responsiveness to clients’ needs and flexibility in how her services are delivered whether it is online, face-to-face or a blended approach has shown proven results.

AEC’s Client Advisory Council half-day meeting concluded with the Awards Luncheon. The meeting objectives for council members were to provide feedback on AEC’s past services, input on how the Center can support the business priorities of clients, offer suggestions about new services AEC could provide and ideas for strategic direction.

The Alber Enterprise Center applies the resources of The Ohio State University, OSU Extension, along with a team of organization development consultants to enable Ohio businesses to positively impact economic growth.  For more information, call 740-725-6325 or visit alber.osu.edu.

Alber Enterprise Center recognizes outstanding businesses

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from far left: Rev. Kenneth Daniel (United Church Homes), from center: Scot McLemore (Honda of America Manufacturing, Inc.), Dave Rasor (Triumph Thermal Systems, Inc.), Mike Patrick (National Lime & Stone Company), in the back (left): Mike Giangiordano (Triumph Thermal Systems) and (right) Dan Sensel (Triumph Thermal Systems)

Ohio businesses who were recognized for outstanding achievement and excellence are (front row from left): Rev. Kenneth Daniel (President & CEO, United Church Homes), Scot McLemore (Technical Development Manager, Honda of America Manufacturing), Dave Rasor (Operations and Lean Champion, Triumph Thermal Systems), Mike Patrick (Manager of Maintenance, National Lime & Stone Company), Mike Giangiordano (President, Triumph Thermal Systems) and Dan Sensel (Director of Engineering, Triumph Thermal Systems)

Six Ohio organizations were recently recognized for outstanding milestones in business by The Ohio State University’s Alber Enterprise Center.

Those receiving awards included: Ohio Presbyterian Retirement Services, United Church Homes, GrafTech International, LTD, Triumph Thermal Systems, Inc., National Lime & Stone Company, and Honda of America Manufacturing, Inc.

“We are honored to recognize the outstanding achievements each of these organizations has made in visioning the future of their particular industries,” explains Myra Wilson, Program Director, Alber Enterprise Center. “They are on the leading edge of leadership development, continuous improvement and innovative culture — three initiatives that form the focus of our mission.”

Each organization has collaborated with the Alber Enterprise Center to address organizational challenges and/or receive executive training tailored to their company needs.

Ohio Presbyterian Retirement Services, Columbus, received the Outstanding Achievement and Excellence Award for Collaboration in Framing the Future of Long-Term Care Services. Ohio Presbyterian Retirement Services and their various staff members have actively attended meetings and their vast amount of expertise have molded and encouraged the work of the Long Term Support Services & Health Care Consortium (LTSS & HCC). Their input is advantageous in aiding the group to shape the vision and future of long-term care services.

President and CEO for United Church Homes, Marion, Rev. Kenneth Daniel accepted the Outstanding Achievement and Excellence Award for Collaboration in Framing the Future of Long-Term Care Services. Rev. Daniel’s guidance and direction led the Center to embark on the beginning stages of the long term support services path. His insights and industry knowledge was instrumental in developing a survey and gathering information that helped shape and guide the work of the Long Term Support Services & Health Care Consortium (LTSS & HCC). These continued efforts are helping AEC and the consortium take an in depth look at healthcare issues and develop solutions that will be impactful for years to come.

GrafTech International, LTD, Lakewood, received the Outstanding Achievement and Excellence Award for Continual Commitment to Human Capital Investment. Over a 3-year period, GrafTech have trained personnel through Structured On-the-Job Training (SOJT) and developed employee portfolios that capture work experience, education, certifications and training. As of June 30, 2014, AEC has issued 223 certificates to GrafTech employees for either Task and or Job Mastery. They also are projecting 120 more Job/Task Mastery certificates that will be issued by June 30, 2015.

from left: Frank Gibson, Myra Wilson, Mike Giangiordano, from right: Dave Rasor, Dan Sensel, and John Hohn (Hardin County Chamber Business Alliance)

(from left) Frank Gibson, Program Manager, and Myra Wilson, Program Director of Alber Enterprise Center presented one of the outstanding client awards to Hardin County’s Triumph Thermal Systems.  Accepting the certificate were Mike Giangiordano, President; Dave Rasor, Operations and Lean Champion; and Dan Sensel, Director of Engineering.  John Hohn, Director of Economic Development for Hardin County Chamber Business Alliance, congratulated the Triumph team.

President of Triumph Thermal Systems, Inc., Forest, Mike Giangiordano accepted the Outstanding Achievement and Excellence Award for Investment in Lean Six Sigma with Positive Impact on Business. Triumph Thermal Systems took an innovative approach to improving quality, efficiency and effectiveness by implementing Lean Six Sigma (LLS) follow up training to continue the initial training previously provided to their yellow belts, green belts and black belts. This past year they invested in training twelve employees in various levels of Lean Six Sigma process improvement. This training continued to enable teams to identify and implement the process, especially to increase higher product quality in two key production areas.

Manager of Maintenance for National Lime & Stone Company, Findlay, Mike Patrick accepted Outstanding Achievement and Excellence Award for Investment in Learning Resulting in Positive Impact on Business. For over ten years, National trained personnel through classroom, hands-on or eLearning. They covered a plethora of topics including customer service, hydraulics, welding, Microsoft office software, issue analysis, customer service and electrical safety. With approximately 40 locations throughout Ohio, National has experienced significant business growth over the years.

Technical Development Manager for Honda of America Manufacturing, Inc. Marysville, Scot McLemore accepted the Outstanding Achievement and Excellence Award for Positive Impact on Business from The BRIDGE: Issue Management Process. Honda’s successful utilization of AEC’s The BRIDGE: Issue Management Process laid the foundation in crafting a plan for feeding qualified workers into the employment pipeline for HAM (Honda of America Manufacturing, Inc.) and HNA (Honda North America) and helped stimulate positive change for maintainable economic growth.

Client Advisory CouncilThe concluding event for AEC’s Client Advisory Council half-day meeting was the Awards Luncheon. The meeting objective for clients was to provide feedback on AEC’s past services, input on how the Center can support the business priorities of other companies, offer suggestions about new services AEC could provide and ideas for strategic direction.

 The Alber Enterprise Center applies the resources of The Ohio State University, OSU Extension, along with a team of organization development consultants to enable Ohio businesses to positively impact economic growth.   For more information, call 740-725-6325 or visit alber.osu.edu.

Ridgemont students awarded scholarships to prepare for workforce

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Photo Credit: Kenton Times

Photo Credit: Kenton Times

Fifty Ridgemont High School students are on their way to becoming empowered leaders.  Each were awarded the “Rising Stars Initiative” scholarship.

Ridgemont High became the first school in the nation to receive this initiative.  The school district partnered with The Ohio State University’s  Alber Enterprise Center, Hardin County Chamber & Business Alliance and Performance Support Systems (PSS), as a collaborative effort to introduce the Future Farmers of America (FFA) students to this program.  The program will aid students to learn people skills and their personal strengths in high school and beyond graduation.

FFA students will partake in a year-long, online personal development program, called “Strong For Life.”  “Strong for Life” for ProStar Coach is a virtual program that can be accessed 24/7 at the student’s disposal to ingrain pertinent leadership qualities for the workforce.

Various classes such as Listening, Giving Constructive Feedback, Engaging in Dialogue, Resolving Conflict, Composure, Cooperation, Self-confidence, Responsibility, and many more are accessible for students to take.

According to a 2006 joint study, “Are They Really Ready to Work,” employers complained that young adults were “woefully-ill prepared” for the demands of the workplace, had poor communication and critical thinking skills.  PSS launched this initiative to address this “growing awareness” on young adults not being adequately prepared for any challenges they may face in the workforce.

Stephanie Jolliff, Ridgemont FFA  Advisor stated “It gives our kids the opportunity to connect with the real world.”

On January 5, 2015, Ridgemont received this non-monetary scholarship.  Normally, a one year individual subscription is $325 but with PSS working with participating schools and youth programs, it’s now free and accessible for teens.

By obtaining these qualifications earlier on and before embarking on their career paths, students will be better equipped with the necessary tools to succeed in the workforce and in life.  Frank Gibson, Program Manager of Alber Enterprise Center said “This is a rare and unique opportunity for students to develop their leadership skills [through coaching focused] on you, your career, your growth, and your future.  We challenge each student to not only receive coaching but to learn how they can use coaching skills to assist others.”

Each student will have assigned “Accountability Coaches” and “Support Coaches” that will guide them throughout the coaching process.

Bailey Drumm, Ridgemont High senior, expressed “This will better prepare us for jobs in the community.  I am confident in my leadership abilities, but I am also excited to see where this leads me.  I am hoping it makes me even better.”

“This can be a life-learning program.  The effect it has on students could affect other people in their lives,” claimed John Hohn, Director of Economic Development at Hardin County Chamber & Business Alliance.  “The long-term impact could be amazing.”

For more information about Strong For Life, visit:  strongforlifeteens.com or contact Frank Gibson at 740-725-6348.

(Special Note:  Article information and quotes pulled from the Kenton Times article, “Program goal to better prepare R’mont students for work force” by Dan Robinson, Staff Writer and Performance Support Systems’ Press Release)

Alber Enterprise Center’s New Year’s Resolutions

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Goodbye 2014 and hello 2015!  While 2014 rapidly comes to an end, our Center welcomes 2015 with open arms.  Our team is looking forward to all of the wonderful opportunities ahead of us, and we can’t wait to continue the journey of success with you.  Let’s celebrate our accomplishments, overcome our setbacks, and be innovative in all our endeavors.  As we kick off the new year on a quest for impact and innovation, each of our staff members stated what our New Year’s Resolutions were.

Team NY Resolutions Collage

HAPPY NEW YEAR AND RING IN 2015 WITH STYLE!

We would love to hear your New Year’s Resolutions as well.  Please share them with us below.

Season’s Greetings From Alber Enterprise Center

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Holiday Staff Photo 2014 FINAL

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

‘Tis the season to be thankful for all our blessings and milestones!  Upon reflection, 2014 was a fruitful year for our Center.  Thank you for counting on us to be your rescue team in the midst of your challenges and providing you with customized solutions for your organization.  As your trusted source for continuous improvement, leadership development and innovative culture, we were thrilled to assist you in the growth of your business, goals and expectations.  You are the main reason why we love what we do.  At the end of the day, Our Center thrives on maintaining lifelong partnerships with our clientele, customers, educational partners, and vendors.

O-H-I-O Holiday Photo 2014 FINAL

On behalf of our Center, we wish you Peace, Love, and Joy throughout this holiday season and a glorious Happy New Year!

Climbing the Success Ladder with You and Your Organization

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Success LadderThere comes a time in life where taking the stairs is the only option to reach your destined path.  The quickest way or “elevator” in this case is inoperable.  If you were asked:  Do you want success? Instantly, your reply will be…I want success!  However, how willing are you to climb up the success ladder without assistance?  Success may be unattainable without enlisting the help of a team, planning, executing goals, and developing resources to obtain it.

HERE’S WHERE WE CAN HELP.

Unlike some consultants who may not necessarily take the time to customize a thorough plan for you or your organization, we take your hand as you climb your success ladder.

At Alber Enterprise Center, we assess your organization’s strengths and shortcomings then work with you to customize just the right solution to fit your business and budget.  We cater to all organizations and industries (i.e. for profit, non-profit, education, government, health, manufacturing, workforce development, and much more).

Examples of our consulting services:

  • Organization development
  • Strategic Planning
  • Performance improvement
  • Process improvement
  • Quality management
  • Environmental compliance
  • Industrial safety and hygiene

We alleviate individual and organizational barriers that are keeping you from obtaining your return on investment and climbing your success ladder.  Founded in 1996, our Center is located on the beautiful campus of The Ohio State University at Marion.  Our savvy consultants are dedicated in working with you to create customized plans for you and assist you every step of the way.

Now, then, YOU WANT SUCCESS….WE HAVE SOLUTIONS!

For more information about our consulting services, visit alber.osu.edu.