Increase Your Knowledge for Maximum Efficiency
Mark Koetke, Chair, Education & Training Committee

One of an organizations core functions is to equip members with skills that allow them to be as efficient as possible in the performance of their duties. While efficiency can be defined in many ways, at its core it simply means deriving maximum output with minimal loss. Losses can take many forms in the working environment; time, money, direction, focus and occasionally, ones mind! Enhancement of knowledge and development of new skills are key elements for increased efficiency and the reduction of operational losses. The training and education committee works cooperatively with other entities to plan, coordinate and ensure delivery of identified training for this purpose.

A major event supporting this goal is the MCA/MACPO Joint Winter Conference. Held in February, this two day conference offers training sessions in various topic areas. In 2007, the conference was held in conjunction with Capital Day, allowing attendees the chance to set up meetings with their elected officials as well as listen to a presentation about MCA & MACPO legislative initiatives. Planning for the 2008 conference, to be held at the Holiday Inn Select, Bloomington Airport on January 31st-February 1st, has been underway since April.

In order to assist the committee in the identification of relevant topics, regional reps have been added as team members. These reps are asked to identify possible subjects and speakers and coordinate training events in their area by arranging for venues, advertising the event, and other activities essential to ensuring success. To date, Wade Erickson (Detroit Lakes District DOC), Rebecca Lothert (Marshall District DOC), and Alex Bunger (Olmsted County) have volunteered to fill this role. There is still a need for one rep from the northeast region and one rep from a correctional institution.

Thus far in 2007, two regional events have taken place and two more are in the planning stages. Training topics covered at these events included: “The Impact of Attitude,” “Dealing With Change & Negativity,” and “Self Protection and Personal Safety.” More events are being planned in the coming months.

On the quest for efficiency we need to maximize all of our resources, so feel free to contact a member of the training and education committee with ideas for training topics and events.

The Training & Education Committee is: Karla Henrichs, Sarah Eischens, Jill Hady, Robyn Schauer, Neal Huemoeller, Nancy Johnson, Mark Koetke, Jon Rowe, and the regional reps listed above.