Most of us are well aware of the word "apprentice" thanks to Donald Trump and the popular TV series. Interestingly, the concept of "apprenticeship work" came from the Middle Ages where less experienced workers, called apprentices, were coached by mentors through daily work. The same practice can be applied today to enhance one's supervisory skills by combining classroom learning with on-the-job practical experience.

The program design allows for the training material to be immediately applied on the job. Employees actively participate in a half-day module, immediately apply the training material from the module to the job, and repeat the process for a total of six modules. The benefit of the design allows the employees to learn, practice, and master the training material, much like an apprenticeship program.

The six program modules are:

1. Stepping Up Without Stepping On: The three guiding principles, the program's foundation, are introduced during the module. The principles are: 1) Focus on the Positive in every situation; 2) Model Respect for individuals , teams, and the organization; 3) Stay Centered when challenged.
2. Controlling Chaos - The module focuses on time and stress management as well as delegation techniques.
3. Communication Protocol - Guidelines are presented including oral and written communication skills.
4. Being Right is Not Always the Right Thing: Employees learn and practice providing feedback to employees.
5. Legal 101: Federal and state laws are facilitated and related to supervisory responsibilities.
6. Marking it Work in Real Time: Independent decision making and critical thinking skills are addressed in this module.

"It enables you to supervise a diverse group while modeling respect and staying centered." Greg Rodgers, Sanitation Supervisor, Public Works Department

"I am new to the supervisor role and this class has certainly helped me to start out on the right foot. It has helped me with being better prepared, communicating on simple levels, and making proper responses. I am making sure that I outwardly recognize the "good things" the employee does. I try to make suggestions, instead of dictating orders. I involve the employee in decisions that need to be made and ask for feedback often. I am trying my best to be positive in negative situations. I'm sure I have avoided several supervisor mistakes by taking this class." Pamela Kimberlin, Administrative Assistant, Human Resources Department

"... with this course, skills learned are used to ensure that we are getting the very best knowledge to deal with any complex problem." Alfred Chappell, Sanitation Supervisor, Public Works Department.

Please contact Mike Russell, Senior Human Resources Analyst, by calling 561-494-1009 or emailing mrussell@wpb.org