Stay Competitive With Your Business

The Economic Development and Corporate Training (EDCT) Division, the not-for-credit arm of the San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD), has received a $950,000 contract from the California Employment Training Panel (ETP) designed to focus on small business success – specifically businesses in the region experiencing out of state competition. John Longville, president of the SBCCD Board of Trustees, explained, “These businesses may participate in a series of EDCT- delivered customized training intended to strengthen their competitive edge, increase productivity and increase employee retention. The trainings will help produce high-performance workplaces and keep California companies competitive in the global market.” Chancellor Bruce Baron said, “This ETP contract allows us to provide incredible training opportunities for businesses throughout the Inland Empire. These are vital skills that can immensely improve a company’s competitive edge in the global marketplace.” Dr. Matthew Isaac, Associate Vice Chancellor, EDCT, added, “The menu of training options is so broad – classes available range from generally necessary workplace skills like communication and leadership skills, conflict management and negotiation training to very specific company business skills like logistics, project management, and a range of technology trainings.” Trainings under the contract are available to small businesses with fewer than 100 California employees and 250 or less employees worldwide, and participation is free to those who can document out-of-state competition with their market. Businesses who participate must pay employee wages during the training as the employer’s contribution. Employees must take a minimum of eight hours of training(s) but can enroll up to a maximum of 200 hours, with employer approval. Dr. Isaac added, “While the immediate focus is on small business, larger companies will also be able to receive training through this specialized contract.”