Employers recognize that a well-trained workforce is key to customer satisfaction, organizational success and building effective teams. ArtCenter is committed to developing and implementing training and development programs for its employees.

When Vice President of Human Resources Lisa M. Sanchez took over the chief HR role in 2015, one of her first priorities was to provide professional development training for employees. “A change in our Employee Assistance Program provider created a wonderful benefit and opportunity to implement training at ArtCenter. And under the direction of our new Assistant Vice President of Human Resources Tracy Kerr, she was able to effectively roll out a training series for staff and management,” said Sanchez.

From August 2016 to January 2017, HR offered topic-specific programs for staff and management on subjects such as financial management, customer service, leadership, interpersonal communication and managing conflict. ArtCenter-specific workshops on completing performance reviews and job description questionnaires were also offered. Still to come is a very important management training program on the basics of managing people. This program will include responsibilities of a manager, supervising staff time and attendance, overtime, performance management, protected leaves, diversity and Title IX issues and strategic thinking.

“HR is pleased to have partnered with the campus community to bring these training programs to our staff and that they have been well received. We look forward to working with the campus on future programs and are currently seeking feedback from the community on what they would like to see offered. We invite everyone to complete a brief survey regarding future training topics,” remarked Kerr.

The training sessions were well attended by both staff and managers. Many employees were pleased not only with the opportunity to learn from the workshops but also for the opportunity to talk with others across the campus.

Here is what people are saying about attending the trainings:

• “[I liked] being able to interact and share experiences with peers and the facilitator in a safe, guided environment.”—Staff Participant
•  “I’ve worked as a supervisor at ArtCenter for five years now and have always wanted more formal and frequent training on best practices in supervising/management. I’m happy to see HR increasing its role as a trainer.” —Supervisor Participant

Questions or suggestions? Please complete the survey and feel free to contact Kerr at tracy.kerr@artcenter.edu.