At CEDC, we recognize that employee turnover can be just as significant a challenge as finding new workers. To stay competitive, the Chippewa Valley needs access to high-quality workforce training—and who better to deliver that than our partners at the UW-Stout Manufacturing Outreach Center (MOC)?
Last week, we were proud to host MOC’s Training Within Industry (TWI) Job Relations course, where local professionals learned how to strengthen communication, build trust, and lead more effective teams. The program empowers leaders to get results through people—by treating individuals fairly, addressing issues promptly, and fostering a respectful workplace culture.
The TWI program is a time-tested cornerstone of manufacturing leadership. Developed in the United States during World War II to rapidly train and upskill a workforce hit hard by the war , these proven methods found new life when Japanese industry adopted them in the years that followed. Toyota was among the companies that integrated TWI into what would become the Toyota Production System. TWI’s Job Instruction, Job Relations, and Job Methods programs remain deeply embedded in Toyota’s supervisor and team leader training today. These methods help improve employee relations, reduce conflict, and foster a lasting culture of respect and accountability. Those same skills don’t just lift organizational performance, they build a stronger, more resilient regional workforce, essential for long-term economic growth.
Our collaboration with UW-Stout MOC underscores CEDC’s shared commitment to building local talent pipelines and supporting the success of Chippewa Valley manufacturers. By bringing industry-proven training directly to our region, we’re helping to ensure that businesses of all sizes have access to the knowledge, resources, and leadership development needed to stay competitive in an evolving economy.
We extend our congratulations to all participants who completed the course and earned their TWI Job Relations certificates. Their dedication to continuous improvement reflects the strength, innovation, and collaboration that defines the Chippewa Valley’s manufacturing community.
CEDC looks forward to continuing our partnership with UW-Stout MOC as we work together to empower workers, strengthen local industries, and advance economic development throughout the Chippewa Valley.
Don’t miss your chance to level up your team and supercharge your workplace! Explore upcoming TWI courses, Lean workshops, and hands-on leadership development sessions at the UW-Stout MOC Learning Center.