Customized workforce training helps businesses get ahead
Colleen Hoffman, manager of North Idaho College Workforce Training’s Customized Training program (left), sits with Brenda Garver, the senior administrative assistant for Customized Training, at an information table during an April event at the NIC Sandpoint Center, which is now operated by NIC Workforce Training. Businesses and organizations in counties throughout North Idaho can take advantage of the NIC Workforce Training’s Customized Training programs. (Courtesy of NIC Workforce Training)
COEUR d’ALENE — For decades, North Idaho College has provided in-demand job training that helps Idahoans advance along their career paths and helps employers find qualified local talent.
NIC also develops customized training to meet the unique needs of area employers and other organizations.
“We can meet the training needs of public agencies and municipalities, nonprofits and small businesses,” said Colleen Hoffmann, NIC Workforce Training Customized Training and Project Manager. “We can work with pretty much anyone.”
Hoffman said NIC customized training is all about collaboration.
NIC staff first meet with the business or organization to understand their specific needs. That could include upskilling or cross training current employees, meeting safety and compliance standards or preparing for new technology, organizational growth, leadership or succession planning for the future.
“We can work with a business or organization on anything,” Hoffman said.
Through one-on-one consultations and site visits, NIC assesses the employer’s goals, challenges and timelines. From there, NIC designs a tailored training program that can be delivered in a format that works best for them, whether that’s on-site, at one of NIC’s regional centers or online.
Hoffman said NIC offers flexible learning options, including in-person, online and hybrid options, evenings and weekends, short-term intensive courses, industry-specific training, one-on-one training, coaching, mentoring, on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs.
NIC has partnered with employers in a range of industries across Idaho and Washington, including mining, wood products construction and heavy equipment, advanced manufacturing and health care.
Beyond the business community, NIC has provided customized training for nonprofits, volunteer organizations and community groups in areas such as CPR/first aid, communication, leadership and board development.
“Our instructors are experts in their industries,” Hoffman said. “Every organization is unique, so we customize our approach.”
Ongoing training and professional development are some of the smartest investments a company can make.
“It’s a win-win for both employers and employees,” Hoffman said.
For employers, it builds a stronger, more adaptable and innovative workforce all while helping to attract and retain talent. For employees, it’s an opportunity to grow their skills and advance along their career path.
Professional development is a continual process of improving one’s skills, knowledge and abilities. It helps individuals adapt to the rapid pace of change across industries and fosters a culture of innovation and growth mindset.
Training is more immediate and task specific, filling current skill gaps and ensuring employees are equipped to succeed in their present roles.
“Companies need both,” Hoffman said.
While training ensures today’s work gets done efficiently and safely, professional development builds tomorrow’s leaders.
When employers create a culture of learning by offering development opportunities, Hoffman said, they benefit from improved productivity, employee advancement, better morale, stronger retention and long-term success.
“Most importantly, it shows employees they are valued and their growth matters,” Hoffman said.
