Advancing Workforce Excellence Through Going Pro Talent Fund FY24 Award

Fernco, Inc., a leader in the manufacturing of flexible pipe connectors and solutions, has exemplified its commitment to workforce development and operational excellence through its successful implementation of the Going PRO Talent Fund. By investing strategically in both current employees and new hires, Fernco has leveraged this funding to build technical skills, leadership capabilities, and advanced manufacturing knowledge across its organization.

Fernco maximized its impact by hiring and training 25 new employees, who each received structured on-the-job training totaling 143 hours per trainee. This $50,000 investment provided essential hands-on instruction in roles such as Injection Machine Operator, strengthening Fernco’s production workforce and operational agility.

Recognizing the importance of data literacy in modern manufacturing, Fernco enrolled multiple employees in cutting-edge digital training programs: Python Programming, Power BI, and Data Analysis & Reporting. The courses included Get and Transform Data with Power Query and Python Interactive Dashboard Development. In total, over 16 employees were trained in data technologies, with certifications from providers including Koenig and Coda Bears, Inc.

Over 40 employees participated in supervisor development courses, including Supervisor 2.0 and Supervisor 3.0, delivered by the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC). These sessions equipped frontline leaders with the tools to foster team productivity, resolve conflicts, and manage operational performance. Training programs such as Systematic Injection Molding, Standard Work, Human Machine Interaction, and Manufacturing Skills Development were also conducted, reinforcing Fernco’s drive for lean, efficient, and technically competent operations.

Fernco utilized over $111,000 of the award, directly supporting over 140 employees through a blend of online, onsite, and classroom instruction. The company’s training plan demonstrated strategic foresight, with targeted training that aligns with current and future business needs. This award is a highlight of Fernco’s commitment to upskilling its workforce and creating training avenues to lead successful new hires to be more efficient in hiring practices and to cut down on turnover.