Career Training & Development
Career training and professional development at the CFAES Wooster Campus supports working professionals, supervisors, educators and organizations seeking practical skill development. Programs focus on leadership, supervision, technical skills and workplace effectiveness through applied training aligned with evolving workforce and organizational needs.
On This Page
- Management and Supervision
- Teams and Workgroups
- Technical and Industrial
- General Leadership
- Computer Courses
Management and supervision
Management and supervision training supports frontline supervisors, team leads, and managers responsible for employee performance, workplace communication, and operational effectiveness. Programs focus on practical supervisory skills, accountability, leadership development, and day-to-day management responsibilities across a range of workplace environments.
The Supervisor’s Toolbox Certificate Program is designed for frontline supervisors, lead employees, and individuals new to supervision who need practical tools to manage people, communication, and workplace responsibilities effectively. The program focuses on applied supervisory skills that support employee performance, workplace communication, and leadership development in real-world organizational settings.
Register for The Supervisor’s Toolbox Certificate Program
Program Schedule and Format
| Term | Format | Day | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | Face-to-Face | Wednesdays | 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | March 25 – May 20, 2026 (No class May 6) |
| Autumn | Face-to-Face | Varies by offering | Morning sessions | Offered three times per year |
| Winter | Live via Zoom | Varies by offering | Morning sessions | Virtual delivery |
Location: Shisler Conference Center, 1680 Madison Avenue, Wooster, OH 44691
Registration Deadline (Spring 2026): March 19, 2026
Investment: $1,525 (includes all sessions, participant materials, assessments, and personalized reports)
Session Information
- Transitioning to Supervision: Roles & Responsibilities of a Supervisor
- Managing Time & Priorities
- Understanding & Adapting Your Style to Get Results (DiSC®)
- Motivating & Retaining Employees
- Polished & Professional Communication
- Setting Expectations, Giving & Receiving Feedback
- Coaching Employees for Peak Performance
- Dealing with Difficult People & Conflict Resolution
Transitioning to Supervision: Roles & Responsibilities of a Supervisor
This introductory session helps participants understand the challenges and opportunities associated with moving from peer to supervisor. Topics include managing the transition from “buddy” to “boss,” understanding expectations from leadership and direct reports, and applying strengths-based leadership. Participants also begin action planning to support effective supervisory practice in the workplace.
Managing Time & Priorities
This participant-oriented workshop includes group interaction, discussion, and action-planning feedback based on the Time Mastery Profile®. Participants assess available time, prioritize goals, and develop practical strategies for managing time, delegation, and daily responsibilities more effectively.
Understanding & Adapting Your Style to Get Results (DiSC®)
This session introduces the DiSC® model of human behavior to help participants understand communication styles and workplace interactions. Using a personalized DiSC® assessment, participants gain awareness of self, others, and situations while learning how to adapt their approach to work more effectively with individuals and teams.
Motivating & Retaining Employees
Supervisors play a key role in employee engagement and retention. This session focuses on building trust, enhancing communication, recruiting effectively, and delivering constructive feedback. Participants explore key drivers of retention and develop action plans to support employee motivation and long-term success.
Polished & Professional Communication
This session strengthens professional communication skills to support clearer decision-making and workplace collaboration. Participants learn to build rapport, remove communication barriers, understand body language, communicate across shifts, and choose appropriate communication methods for different workplace situations.
Setting Expectations, Giving & Receiving Feedback
Participants learn the SIMPLE Method for accountability: Set expectations, Invite commitment, Measure progress, Provide feedback, Link to consequences, and Evaluate effectiveness. The session includes structured feedback models, performance scenario practice, and techniques for addressing attendance, performance, and conduct issues.
Coaching Employees for Peak Performance
This session explores the differences between coaching, mentoring, and directing, with emphasis on listening skills, accountability, and performance development. Participants learn the G.R.O.W. coaching model, practice coaching approaches, and develop workplace action plans to support employee growth.
Dealing with Difficult People & Conflict Resolution
This interactive workshop reframes workplace conflict as a natural and potentially constructive process. Participants learn to address difficult behaviors, reduce workplace stress, and apply structured approaches to conflict resolution that support productivity, resilience, and professional relationships.
This training introduces the DiSC® behavioral model to help participants understand communication styles, workplace behaviors, and interpersonal dynamics. By developing awareness of self, others, and workplace situations, participants learn how to adapt their approach to improve collaboration and team effectiveness.
Each participant completes a DiSC® assessment and uses a personalized report during the training. Instruction focuses on identifying personal style and intensity, relating to different behavioral styles, and applying communication strategies that increase effectiveness with individuals and teams.
Contact Business Training & Educational Services for DiSC training information
Managing Time and Priorities is an interactive workshop that includes group discussion, small-group activities, and action planning supported by the Time Mastery Profile®. The training helps participants evaluate how time is currently used, prioritize responsibilities, and develop practical strategies for improving time management and delegation.
The workshop addresses common workplace challenges related to workload balance, goal prioritization, and productivity while providing participants with individualized action plans for applying time management strategies on the job.
Contact Business Training & Educational Services for time management training
This interactive workshop examines conflict as a natural part of workplace environments and provides structured approaches for addressing difficult behaviors constructively. Participants learn how reframing conflict can support creativity, resilience, and organizational growth rather than disruption.
Training focuses on reducing workplace stress, improving communication, and developing practical procedures for addressing conflict in professional settings. Participants gain tools for navigating interpersonal challenges while maintaining productivity and positive working relationships.
Contact Business Training & Educational Services to customize conflict resolution training
Teams and workgroups
Teams and workgroups today include multiple generations, varied professional backgrounds, and different communication styles. Training in this area focuses on collaboration, communication, team effectiveness, and interpersonal skills that support productive and adaptable workplace environments.
The Team Agility Workshop uses the Everything DiSC® Agile EQ™ framework to help teams respond more effectively to changing workplace situations, interpersonal dynamics, and collaborative challenges. The program is designed to strengthen emotional intelligence, adaptability, and team communication in both in-person and virtual work environments.
Participants complete a research-validated Everything DiSC® Agile EQ™ assessment and receive a comprehensive personalized report. The training is delivered as a live workshop led by a certified facilitator and can be offered online or face-to-face based on organizational needs.
Participant outcomes include recognizing instinctive mindsets, adapting responses to social and emotional situations, and developing more agile and collaborative approaches to teamwork.
Location: Live Online (Zoom) or Face-to-Face at your facility
Contact Business Training & Educational Services to customize Team Agility training
The MRW Work Ethic Certification is based on Mike Rowe’s S.W.E.A.T. Pledge and is designed for both workforce and educational audiences seeking to strengthen foundational workplace behaviors and professional expectations.
The certification emphasizes four core pillars: work ethic, personal responsibility, delayed gratification, and positive attitude. Participants who successfully complete the program receive an industry-recognized MRW Work Ethic certificate.
The Ohio State University ATI is among the first colleges in the nation to offer this certification and the first in Ohio. Future offerings and scheduling information are announced as programs become available.
Additional program background is available through the Mike Rowe Works press information page:
Contact Business Training & Educational Services to customize Work Ethic Certification training
This training introduces the DiSC® behavioral model to help participants understand communication styles, workplace behaviors, and interpersonal dynamics. By developing awareness of self, others, and workplace situations, participants learn how to adapt their approach to improve collaboration and team effectiveness.
Each participant completes a DiSC® assessment and uses a personalized report during the training. Instruction focuses on identifying personal style and intensity, relating to different behavioral styles, and applying communication strategies that increase effectiveness with individuals and teams.
Contact Business Training & Educational Services for DiSC training information
Managing Time and Priorities is an interactive workshop that includes group discussion, small-group activities, and action planning supported by the Time Mastery Profile®. The training helps participants evaluate how time is currently used, prioritize responsibilities, and develop practical strategies for improving time management and delegation.
The workshop addresses common workplace challenges related to workload balance, goal prioritization, and productivity while providing participants with individualized action plans for applying time management strategies on the job.
Contact Business Training & Educational Services for time management training
This interactive workshop examines conflict as a natural part of workplace environments and provides structured approaches for addressing difficult behaviors constructively. Participants learn how reframing conflict can support creativity, resilience, and organizational growth rather than disruption.
Training focuses on reducing workplace stress, improving communication, and developing practical procedures for addressing conflict in professional settings. Participants gain tools for navigating interpersonal challenges while maintaining productivity and positive working relationships.
Contact Business Training & Educational Services to customize conflict resolution training
Technical and industrial
Technical and industrial training programs support workforce skill development in manufacturing, maintenance, safety, and applied technical fields. Offerings are designed for employees, employers, and individuals seeking practical, industry-informed training that emphasizes hands-on application, problem solving, and job-relevant technical competencies.
Industrial Technician Certificate programs at Ohio State ATI provide structured training pathways for industrial and manufacturing technicians. Programs are developed with industry input and focus on applied skills, technical knowledge, and workplace problem solving in industrial environments. Participants may complete full certificates or select individual courses based on workforce needs and career goals.
Additional program information and request details are available through the Industrial Technician training information form.
Available Certificate Pathways
Industrial Maintenance Technician Certificate
Requires successful completion of a minimum of nine courses, including Blueprint Reading, Communicating on the Job, hydraulic and pneumatic coursework, and selected electrical and controls courses.
Electrical and Controls Technician Certificate
Focuses on electrical systems and controls training, including Blueprint Reading and a series of electrical, electronics, motor control, and PLC courses.
Mechanical Technician Certificate
Emphasizes mechanical systems training, including hydraulics, pneumatics, basic electricity, and communication in technical environments.
Program Requirements
Successful completion of each course is based on instructor criteria outlined in the course syllabus. Evaluation may include attendance, participation, examinations, and laboratory exercises. Basic applied mathematics knowledge is recommended for success in technical coursework.
Request additional information about Industrial Technician Certificates
Contact Business Training & Educational Services to customize industrial training
Online training for manufacturers is delivered in partnership with Tooling U-SME and provides a progressive, self-paced training pathway that supports employee development and career pathway planning within manufacturing organizations. Courses are industry-validated and designed for accessibility across desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices.
More than 500 online classes are available, typically taking approximately 60 minutes to complete, and covering a broad range of manufacturing and technical topics. Training can be customized to align with organizational workforce development goals.
Training Topic Areas
- Assembly
- Composites
- Engineering
- Fabricating
- Industrial Safety
- Machining
- Mechatronics
- Manufacturing Awareness
- Plastics
- Quality
- Smart Manufacturing
- Welding
Contact Business Training & Educational Services to customize online manufacturing training
Online technical certificate programs are self-paced training pathways developed by Ohio State ATI in partnership with Tooling U-SME. These programs support individuals seeking entry into manufacturing careers, workforce upskilling, or technical skill development in industrial environments. Courses are delivered online and typically completed over a three-month period.
Lean Basics Certificate
The Lean Basics Certificate introduces core Lean principles focused on reducing waste, improving efficiency, and standardizing workplace processes. The program includes 17 one-hour online courses covering Lean terminology, systems, and workplace applications. Participants who complete all courses with a score of 80% or higher receive an electronic certificate of completion.
Cost: $199
Course Completion Window: TBA
Manufacturing Associate Certificate
The Manufacturing Associate Certificate prepares individuals for entry-level manufacturing roles through 25 one-hour, self-paced online courses covering foundational manufacturing concepts identified by industry experts. Participants may also pursue the optional Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) credential through SME following program completion.
Cost: $199
Course Completion Window: TBA
Manufacturing Inspection Certificate
The Manufacturing Inspection Certificate focuses on measurement, quality control, and inspection processes used in manufacturing environments. The program includes 18 one-hour online courses covering inspection tools such as calipers, micrometers, CMM systems, and calibration fundamentals.
Cost: $199
Course Completion Window: TBA
Manufacturing Safety Fundamentals Certificate
The Manufacturing Safety Fundamentals Certificate provides foundational safety training relevant across manufacturing and industrial workplaces. The program includes 23 one-hour online courses addressing OSHA-related topics, workplace hazards, and core safety practices applicable across industries.
Cost: $199
Course Completion Window: TBA
Contact Business Training & Educational Services for online technical certificate program details
Contact Business Training & Educational Services to customize technical and industrial training
The Supervisor’s Toolbox Certificate Program is designed for frontline supervisors, lead employees, and individuals new to supervision who need practical tools to manage people, communication, and workplace responsibilities effectively. The program focuses on applied supervisory skills that support employee performance, workplace communication, and leadership development in real-world organizational settings.
Register for The Supervisor’s Toolbox Certificate Program
Program Schedule and Format
| Term | Format | Day | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | Face-to-Face | Wednesdays | 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | March 25 – May 20, 2026 (No class May 6) |
| Autumn | Face-to-Face | Varies by offering | Morning sessions | Offered three times per year |
| Winter | Live via Zoom | Varies by offering | Morning sessions | Virtual delivery |
Location: Shisler Conference Center, 1680 Madison Avenue, Wooster, OH 44691
Registration Deadline (Spring 2026): March 19, 2026
Investment: $1,525 (includes all sessions, participant materials, assessments, and personalized reports)
Session Information
- Transitioning to Supervision: Roles & Responsibilities of a Supervisor
- Managing Time & Priorities
- Understanding & Adapting Your Style to Get Results (DiSC®)
- Motivating & Retaining Employees
- Polished & Professional Communication
- Setting Expectations, Giving & Receiving Feedback
- Coaching Employees for Peak Performance
- Dealing with Difficult People & Conflict Resolution
Transitioning to Supervision: Roles & Responsibilities of a Supervisor
This introductory session helps participants understand the challenges and opportunities associated with moving from peer to supervisor. Topics include managing the transition from “buddy” to “boss,” understanding expectations from leadership and direct reports, and applying strengths-based leadership. Participants also begin action planning to support effective supervisory practice in the workplace.
Managing Time & Priorities
This participant-oriented workshop includes group interaction, discussion, and action-planning feedback based on the Time Mastery Profile®. Participants assess available time, prioritize goals, and develop practical strategies for managing time, delegation, and daily responsibilities more effectively.
Understanding & Adapting Your Style to Get Results (DiSC®)
This session introduces the DiSC® model of human behavior to help participants understand communication styles and workplace interactions. Using a personalized DiSC® assessment, participants gain awareness of self, others, and situations while learning how to adapt their approach to work more effectively with individuals and teams.
Motivating & Retaining Employees
Supervisors play a key role in employee engagement and retention. This session focuses on building trust, enhancing communication, recruiting effectively, and delivering constructive feedback. Participants explore key drivers of retention and develop action plans to support employee motivation and long-term success.
Polished & Professional Communication
This session strengthens professional communication skills to support clearer decision-making and workplace collaboration. Participants learn to build rapport, remove communication barriers, understand body language, communicate across shifts, and choose appropriate communication methods for different workplace situations.
Setting Expectations, Giving & Receiving Feedback
Participants learn the SIMPLE Method for accountability: Set expectations, Invite commitment, Measure progress, Provide feedback, Link to consequences, and Evaluate effectiveness. The session includes structured feedback models, performance scenario practice, and techniques for addressing attendance, performance, and conduct issues.
Coaching Employees for Peak Performance
This session explores the differences between coaching, mentoring, and directing, with emphasis on listening skills, accountability, and performance development. Participants learn the G.R.O.W. coaching model, practice coaching approaches, and develop workplace action plans to support employee growth.
Dealing with Difficult People & Conflict Resolution
This interactive workshop reframes workplace conflict as a natural and potentially constructive process. Participants learn to address difficult behaviors, reduce workplace stress, and apply structured approaches to conflict resolution that support productivity, resilience, and professional relationships.
Microsoft Office courses are offered as live online sessions and focus on practical skills used in professional settings. Course offerings may vary by term.
Autumn 2025 sessions are scheduled as live online training via Zoom. Registration deadlines apply for each course. A future searchable course database is planned to replace PDF course outlines and improve access to current session details.
Autumn 2025 Course Schedule
| Course | Date | Time | Registration deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Excel | Wednesday, September 17, 2025 | 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | Register by 9/9/25 |
| Intermediate Excel | Wednesday, September 24, 2025 | 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | Register by 9/19/25 |
| Advanced Excel | Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | Register by 9/30/25 |
| Excel Pivot Tables | Wednesday, October 8, 2025 | 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | Register by 10/3/25 |
| Excel Functions and Formulas | Wednesday, October 15, 2025 | 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | Register by 10/10/25 |
| Advanced Word | Wednesday, November 5, 2025 | 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | Register by 10/31/25 |
To register, use the Microsoft Office course registration page:
[INSERT REGISTRATION URL] (replace with the official link)
Course topic outlines are currently provided through PDF files that are being reviewed for accessibility and updates. When the searchable course database is available, course descriptions and outlines will be maintained there.
Request information about computer courses:
[INSERT REQUEST INFO LINK] (replace with webform or updated contact method)
Contact Business Training & Educational Services to customize Microsoft Office training