Hilliard, Ohio-based Advanced Drainage Systems Inc. is partnering with educators and a staffing agency to train people from overlooked employee pools for customer service roles through an online remote program.
The manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic wastewater pipes, tanks and chambers joined forces with the Coalition for the Common Good, which was cofounded by two Ohio colleges — Antioch University and Otterbein University — and InnoSource, a Columbus, Ohio-based firm that helps companies address staffing needs.
ADS employees had input into developing the curriculum to ensure it met the specific needs of the business, according to Patrick Coyle, ADS senior vice president of supply chain.
"This hands-on involvement helped tailor the program to equip participants with the most relevant skills for their roles at ADS," Coyle said in an email.
Founded in 1966, ADS generates annual sales of about $2.2 billion making it the fourth largest pipe, profile and tubing producer in North America, according to Plastics News' latest ranking. The company operates 70 manufacturing plants and 40 distribution centers.
To customize the customer service training, the ADS course includes an overview of the business and its terminology and also covers Microsoft Excel, best practices for remote work, time management and cybersecurity among other topics.
InnoSource's program, called InnoSkilling, is designed to be delivered remotely to let participants to complete it from any location.
"Sessions are led by live instructors, ensuring an interactive and engaging learning experience without the need for on-campus attendance," InnoSource CEO Chad Delligatti said in an email.
Participants leave the program fully prepared to excel in their new roles, he added, because education communities were willing to work with businesses for a common goal: training people to successfully fill open positions.
Seven graduates to date have joined ADS and are working remotely. The new hires come at a time when labor shortages are disrupting business and making it challenging for U.S. companies to achieve their goals.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that there were 8.1 million job openings at the end of May while 6.8 million people remain unemployed.
"To address workforce shortages, we need to think creatively, and partnering with new and interesting organizations is creativity in action," Otterbein President John Comerford said. "This unique pilot program is an opportunity to leverage those partnerships for a greater good: getting qualified people into good jobs."