About:
At IMEC, my focus revolves around cultivating workforce development and driving employee engagement/retention. I specialize in coaching and nurturing leaders and sales teams, orchestrating initiatives aimed at enhancing employee engagement/retention.
Incorporating over 30 years of experience in higher education overseeing workforce development including customized contract training, professional development workshops, and continuing education for individuals looking to upskill, retain, and/or just being a lifelong learner will be instrumental in my role at IMEC. In addition, I have extensive experience in writing and administering grants on the federal, state, and local levels. I have developed strategic employer partnerships that has resulted in the development of career training programs to provide a highly skilled workforce.
Together, I want to encompass a multifaceted approach to workforce development and organizational transformation. Through coaching and development initiatives, I have guided leaders and sales teams toward success while fostering a culture of engagement. Drawing from my extensive experience and commitment to driving results, I am dedicated to empowering organizations to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.
Expertise
- Certified Program Planner from Learning Resource Network (LERN)
- Certified eMarketing Professional from Learning Resource Network (LERN)
- Certified Defensive Driving Instructor through the National Safety Council
- Bachelors of Science in Management – focus on Human Resources from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston
- Masters of Science in Education – focus on Workforce Education from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale
Specialized Skills
- Workforce Development
- Leadership Coaching and Development
- Grant Writing
- Computer Software Training / Microsoft
- Team Building
- Customer Service
- Career Preparation / Development Workshops
- Employee Engagement / Retention
Results
- Created and designed a MFG Day initiative in 2022 at Western Wyoming Community College. Over 800 high school students attended the event annually with approximately 25 manufacturers in attendance. In addition, the event provided opportunities for students to apply and receive scholarships to enter a career in manufacturing.
- Oversight and accountability for a cost-recovery operation, and for the last ten years as the leader of the team, generated over $3.1 million in profits.
- Responsible for the design and development of the apprenticeship program at Joliet Junior College. Within the first year, submitted 21 occupations and received approval from DOL for apprenticeships, and in addition, partnered with 18 employers through DOL agreements.
- Developed a variety of training programs in partnership with industry. Example of programs consist of Substation Technology, Powerline Technician, and Operations Engineering and Technician certificate and degree programs.
