18.01.2014 Views

Title of Effective Practice: - California Postsecondary Education ...

Title of Effective Practice: - California Postsecondary Education ...

Title of Effective Practice: - California Postsecondary Education ...

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.

Direct Connection to Policy Area 1 <strong>of</strong> The Illinois Commitment<br />

Innovative Solutions in Workforce Development<br />

Kishwaukee College<br />

What issue or need is addressed by the effective practice?<br />

Nestle USA occupies an 850,000 sq. ft. distribution center in DeKalb, one <strong>of</strong> five that Nestle uses in the United<br />

States to receive and distribute its products. A major challenge <strong>of</strong> the company was finding adequate numbers<br />

<strong>of</strong> applicants able to pass basic math and career skill requirements<br />

Description <strong>of</strong> the effective practice:<br />

Through the initial contact between John Moulton, Nestle’s General Manager in DeKalb and Roger Hopkins,<br />

the Executive Director <strong>of</strong> the DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation, the Illinois and Employment<br />

Center (IETC) in DeKalb was identified as an avenue to resolve the workforce needs <strong>of</strong> Nestle. The IETC<br />

partnership includes Kishwaukee College, the Illinois Department <strong>of</strong> Employment Security, Kane County<br />

Department <strong>of</strong> Employment and <strong>Education</strong>, and First Institute. In addition, a sub-contract with Waubonsee<br />

Community College contributed to the comprehensive programming that resulted. The “Innovative Solution”<br />

required a team approach in order to be timely, efficient, and effective. The team identified several processes to<br />

address the specific needs <strong>of</strong> Nestle: distribution <strong>of</strong> applications; assessment <strong>of</strong> skill sets in order to be<br />

employable by Nestle and other employers; certification process for those who meet the math, basic computer<br />

and s<strong>of</strong>t skills requirements; and referral to Nestle. But an extra step was added. A training program was<br />

developed for those who did not meet the skill requirements. Kishwaukee College developed a math program<br />

and coordinated a s<strong>of</strong>t skills training component that will enhance the skills necessary for entry into the job<br />

market. The processes developed as a result <strong>of</strong> the Nestle experience has proven successful and can assist other<br />

employers in their workforce needs.<br />

How does this practice achieve sustainability?<br />

The team approach and the identification <strong>of</strong> processes from application to assessment and follow-up training<br />

have been integrated into the functions <strong>of</strong> the IETC, particularly when assisting employers in identifying<br />

potential applicants. Kishwaukee College will continue to <strong>of</strong>fer Math for Employment classes, basic computer<br />

skills training, and s<strong>of</strong>t skills training at the IETC.<br />

What are the results/measurable outcomes?<br />

The response to Nestle’s needs demonstrated the IETC’s ability to assist employers in finding solutions to their<br />

workforce needs. Over 250 job seekers were assisted in the application, assessment, and referral process with<br />

follow-up for those who needed additional math, computer, and s<strong>of</strong>t skills instruction. This process has been<br />

used with other local employers with similar needs.<br />

Contact Information<br />

Name: Evelina Cichy<br />

Email: ejcichy@kishwaukeecollege.edu<br />

Phone: (815) 825-2086<br />

21

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!