TRC Corporate College: the key to employee success

	For more information or applications, go to trctraining.com. Applications are due to Michelle Albaugh at the Staff Training Center by February 15th.

Author and musician B.B. King once wrote, “The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.”

In an effort to give employees an opportunity for a learning adventure of a lifetime that no one can take away, The Resource Center has partnered with Jamestown Community College to help those who’ve never been able to participate in the college experience.

“We wanted to develop a program to help employees further their education, invest in the workforce and build their skills,” said Michele Albaugh, Assistant Director of Staff Training Center.

To help accomplish all three objectives, applications are being accepted for the 2011 TRC Corporate College.  Under the two-year program, an employee must maintain a “C” average and will earn 18 credits, plus participate in 36 hours of non-credit classes. Credit classes include English Composition I and II, Public Speaking, Introduction to Business, Principles of Management, and Management and Organizational Behavior. Also important to note is that TRC will pay for the classes and the books that go along with them.

“We felt since a lot of these classes are introductory courses for a degree at JCC, we wanted to give our employees a head start toward their own degree,” said Michelle.  “We feel public speaking will benefit the employee and enhance their skills within the organization.  And from the management side, it’s important they learn the business aspect of the organization as well.  It’ll make them feel more valued and confident.”

JCC instructors and professors will be teaching the classes, though they will be held in TRC buildings.  So while the classes won’t take place at JCC, students will still have access to all areas of the college, including the library, learning center and physical education complex.

“Both TRC and JCC have a vested interest in the community and work together to build the community,” said Michele.  “TRC views education as very important, so working with JCC is a good fit.  Plus, the college customizes classes with us, and we’ve worked with them for a long time.”

This program started in 2010.  Currently, 14 employees make up the class of 2012 and are working toward the completion of the program next year.  Students come from a broad range of the TRC employee base and include Clinicians, Direct Support Professionals, Residence Managers, and Staff Development Specialists.  And because the employees cannot let the classes interfere with their regular work time, they have to iron out a schedule with their supervisors to flex their hours.

Shelly Pratt, Receptionist at the Administrative Offices on Dunham Avenue, is one of the employees currently enrolled in TRC’s Corporate College.

Corporate College student Stephanie Runge, Direct Support Professional in the B-4 home at the Intermediate Care Facility on Foote Avenue, is one of those employees thankful for the opportunity.

“I think it’s a great program, and it really revolves around people like me who also work full time,” said Stephani.   “They really work around my schedule and make it really easy.  I hadn’t been to school since I finished high school.  I would really encourage people to take part because for me, it’s the first step in advancing my education and opportunities within the company.”

Others like Diane Cornell, a single parent who works full-time as an Activity Leader in the “Alternatives” Day Habilitation Program at the Michael J Raymond Center full time and subs part time in the homes, is thankful she didn’t have to worry about the financial part and is hopeful about what the opportunity brings.

“It is quite organized, and it’s good in the fact that it really boosts my confidence.  My first grade so far was an A-minus, and I was ecstatic,” said Diane.  “It helps me in my current job.  It helps in my documentation on a daily basis.  I’m more focused on my grammar now and where the period goes and where the comma goes.  Hopefully, it’ll also give me an opportunity to grow with the agency.”

Heather Becker is an Occupational Therapist in the Diagnostic & Treatment Center.  She characterizes TRC Corporate College as a convenient and amazing opportunity that offers a real college experience that’s great for anyone.

“Whether they have only a high school diploma or master’s degree, it can benefit anyone,” said Heather.  “The class we’ve taken so far has taught me so much and opened my eyes to other possibilities.  I would encourage everyone to apply.  TRC has given us the opportunity to take classes that will allow us to be challenged and succeed with our careers.  I am so thankful to have had this opportunity.”

“I think it’s great that TRC takes an active role in helping staff develop and perhaps climb up the corporate ladder, as well as supervisors allowing their employees to take part,” said TRC Corporate College student John DePane, Staff Development Specialist.  “I would strongly encourage employees to take part, because the agency pays for it and is 110 percent behind it.  Some people have years of experience but don’t have the means to go to college on their own.  Corporate College may give them the added experience they need to advance and develop a career path.”

Michele added, “ I think it’s great.  I get e-mails from the employees, saying the class was great and `thank you’.  They would have never been able to go to college without this help.  They’ve bonded as a class, and they’re proud of what they’ve accomplished.”

At the end of the two-year program, the employee will have their 18 credits and a certificate of completion that may make them eligible for advancement to other positions within the company.

“It’s a great opportunity for people to begin their college career to work toward an associate degree, finish a degree, to know they’re employer is supporting them and to build a career,” noted Michele.

If you or someone you know who works for TRC is interested in becoming a part of the Class of 2013, applications can be found on the TRC Training website, www.trctraining.com, and are due to Michele Albaugh at the Staff Training Center by February 15.