For the first time in recent history, there are four generations of employees represented in the U.S. workforce. It is the largest demographic shift since women and members of minority groups began entering the workforce in significant numbers several decades ago. Not surprisingly, the implications are as profound now as they were then. Against the backdrop of gender, race and ethnicity, generational differences bring a new level of complexity-and new opportunity-to the notion of what it is to manage a diverse workforce.

Effectively leading the workforce of the future will require that individuals and organizations be willing to explore differences, encourage respect and take responsibility to find their common ground. Over the next several months we'll be examining this topic of diversity and providing insights that will help you better understand and plan your workforce development needs to fully leverage the diversity of your workforce.

Source: VisionPoint

The advent of the Internet and new Web technologies have made it possible for any business to expand globally. But how do you move forward with a Web strategy and position your business to sell online? What technologies are available to assist your organization with communication and information access? Learn answers to these questions and more by attending a training session on Internet trade intelligence.

Mercury Marine's need for dealer training resulted in a partnership with Moraine Park Technical College. The manufacturer is now celebrating the tenth anniversary of Mercury University.

"The College is conveniently located and provides easy access for our dealers from the Midwest region," said Brad Weber, Mercury Marine director of field service development and operations, who oversees Mercury University. "Mercury University's goal is to educate dealers and consumers about technical and nontechnical aspects of Mercury engines. We train and teach with the idea that if the dealer is well- informed, the customer will also be well-informed."

"Mercury University is an all-encompassing program that has received rave reviews from our dealers, and Mercury works closely with our dealers to ensure we continue to meet and exceed their training expectations," said Weber, adding that dealer participation in the training programs increases year after year.

Pete Rettler serves as Campus and Community Partner for Moraine Park's West Bend campus and Online initiatives. He joined the college in 1997 after working in a variety of business and industry leadership roles.

One of Pete's responsibilites is to work with local businesses and organizations in Washington County. "I am very excited to have the opportunity to serve the communities in Washington County," said Rettler. "Working directly with the business community is important because it helps the College stay current with industry trends. At the same time, we're able to support any pressing workforce development needs to stimulate economic growth and increased productivity of our area employers."

Pete holds a bachelor's degree in business administration with an emphasis in finance from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and will soon obtain his master's degree in management and organizational behavior from Silver Lake College.