[OOPS! My former post had an error in the title, so I am re-posting with apologies for confusing how the two universities are affiliated with Crown Equipment.]

For the second time since 2006, Crown Equipment has contributed a significant improvement to systematic "training" within our field [see "LIFTOR head praises Crown technician training" Thursday, 13 Jul 2006 ( #268 )].

This time, they are doing it again through the University of Northwestern Ohio. It speaks well of both institutions to be sure. So, what makes this so significant? In the world of forklift training (including operators, technicians, and their management) it is rare to witness a systematic training process that is engineered with the rigor demonstrated by Crown's International Award Winning Contribution to our field. Crown's Technician Training has proven itself from the outset to celebrate applied Human Performance Improvement Principles for which it was awarded one of the International Society for Performance Improvement's (ISPI's) highest honors in 2006. With the advent of this kind of scientifically rigorous program being brought to a University setting, both the University of Northwestern Ohio and Crown are setting one good example for what is possible in the realm training within our industry. I think they deserve a big thank you, and Congratulations....And, NO. I am NOT affiliated with Crown Equipment or the University of Northwestern Ohio in any way. Let's give credit where clearly it is due.

Best wishes,

Joe Monaco
National LIFTOR