UT HPT Program A Top "Innovator"

The University of Tennessee's Human Performance Technology (HPT) program has been awarded Innovator status by the Southern Growth Policies Board -- a public, nonprofit organization devoted to strengthening the Southern economy and creating the highest possible quality of life.

"Achieving this recognition is very exciting to us - especially because our program is so new," says Bill Stetar, program leader. "We are gratified that our efforts to improve Tennessee's workforce have proved so successful."

Southern Growth judged the entries in terms of quality, originality, and sustainability. Thirty-nine programs were awarded Innovator status, including just three university programs.

The HPT program uses scientific-based, systematic approaches to assist employers in their quest to develop competent and productive workforces. The HPT program operates statewide, and its services are available to companies in all 95 Tennessee counties.

Experts in human performance technology can help improve workforce development efforts in all areas explains Stetar. "We are able to take on a diverse number of projects, from skill upgrades to technology transfer to strategic planning," he says. "HPT helps makes it possible for businesses to attain bottom-line results - outcomes that directly produce substantial economic impact for Tennessee communities."

According to both Stetar, HPT scrutinizes training and non-training solutions in a systematic manner. "HPT helps companies realize that one-dimensional solutions fall short of producing the workforce improvements they seek," says Stetar. "And, whatever does get done, gets measured -- training included."

Link to Univ. of TN News Site (www.pr.tennessee.edu)

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View complete list of Innovators (PDF)