And training is the key. In fact, the National Association of Manufacturers , the country's largest industrial trade association, has approved a resolution to make worker training one of its top priorities to help companies regain their competitive edge. Competition for contracts exists there, as well, and those companies must be able to set themselves apart. Hiring and retaining qualified engineers who can make the difference on projects is one crucial way of doing so. Maintaining a company's competitive advantage in today's business world may depend upon the ability to train employees quickly and effectively on topics ranging from management skills to computer applications to regulatory compliance.
Companies realize that highly skilled employees are key to innovation and productivity gains.
Providing training to your employees, therefore, is critical. In addition, most professional engineering associations have continuing education or training requirements to retain certifications and licensing. The State Board overseeing licensing in North Carolina, for example, requires professional engineers to receive 15 professional development hours per year to maintain their license. For the last six months, he has been trying to schedule a training course for his staff, but there never seems to be enough time or money, or a course on the right topic in the right location. And letting my engineers go all at one time would be a nightmare even if the seminar is the only one out there on that topic, and presented by the expert in the field.