AWES Service Profiles
Expertise - Consulting and Advice
AWES takes a pragmatic approach to advising clients, with an eye on
implementation. We work closely with leadership teams and individuals to clearly define and achieve their learning and development goals. We put ourselves in your world, but remain objective independent observers who can provide sound planning advice, innovative ideas or even unconventional strategies to close those Essential Skills gaps. Our project managers focus on effectiveness and efficiency in a world where neither employers nor employees have much time to spare for learning. AWES has a track record of successful implementation of Essentials Skills initiatives. We provide advisory services by doing accurate needs assessments and then making recommendations for action. At times the implementation might be performed by AWES, and at other times we step back and bring other service providers into the solution. Through our network, AWES recognizes the strength of collaboration. We have “been around the block” enough times to know that sometimes the best advice means drawing upon other expertise to compliment our own. We can confidently say the Essential Skills solution is the focus in all our advisory services. |
Needs Assessment for Alberta Food Producers AssociationLike many sectors, the food processing industry in Alberta is set for a future characterized by continued growth and relentless change. Managing these
changes requires a flexible workforce with the skills and confidence to continually adapt to new processes, new technology, new markets, new skills and new ways of thinking. In the early 2000s, research indicated 45% of workers in food processing plants were likely below a recommended minimum for coping with workplace change. AWES partnered with the National Literacy Secretariat, Alberta Learning, and the Alberta Food Processors Association to evaluate how future trends will affect essential skills requirements. The project aimed to identify Essential Skills needs and make recommendations for workforce development. Representatives from 83 companies in 22 Alberta communities participated in interviews and focus groups. AWES put forward a set of recommendations, including industry-specific courses for supervisors, numeracy courses and language training. AWES implemented a number of these and our recommendations were soon translated into broader sustainable solutions such as the “Molson Learning Centre” that focused on Essential Skills courses in math, upgrading, business writing, reading, computer skills and general education development. |
(c) AWES 2012