By learning about the cooperative principles, values and the economic impact of electric co-ops, participants will deepen their understanding of the cooperative business model and be able to communicate it effectively. This workshop will provide insight on the historical context and ideas that gave rise to the cooperative movement; the evolution of cooperative enterprise; comparative models and practice; and the relevance of the cooperative business model. This highly-interactive course allows participants to see how individual electric co-ops are part of a state, national and international network that seeks to make the world a better place, one community at a time.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

This program is designed for any employee, new or long-tenured, who has not had the opportunity to learn the special nature of the cooperative way of doing business. The interactive workshop format uses videos and exercises to reinforce the co-op principles and applications of the co-op business model in our everyday work.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

At the end of the course, participants will:

Understand and communicate the cooperative difference;
Connect co-op principles and values to their daily work;
Understand their vital place as an employee in a cross-sector national network; and
Be empowered to help sustain the vitality of the co-op culture.

COURSE OUTLINE

Welcome

A Michigan Perspective:

State perspective focusing on how Michigan's co-ops work together to achieve our common goals

NRECA “Power of Cooperatives” (101.5):

Broad, national outlook, including historical context, the co-op business model, and cross-sector cooperative applications

WORKSHOP FEE

Co-op will be invoiced $75 after training is completed.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

Adam Schwartz is the founder and principal of The Cooperative Way, a consulting firm dedicated to assisting cooperative businesses succeed. He has served as vice president for public affairs and member services for the National Cooperative Business Association (NCBA), Vice President of External Affairs for the National Rural Telecommunications Cooperative (NRTC), and legislative representative for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) and National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation (NRUCFC). He currently serves as a cooperative culture instructor at the NRECA Management Internship Program (MIP) and an Adjunct Instructor at the University of Mary Washington. With over 25 years of cooperative experience, Adam has extensive knowledge of the key ingredients that lead to high performing sustainable success for cooperatives from all sectors. He is a frequent speaker and author on cooperative business, and has appeared on MSNBC and CNN to promote cooperatives as the better business model for economic and social change.

QUESTIONS?

Contact Laurie Millen at lmillen@meca.coop or 231-779-3393

Electric Co-op Foundations (Cadillac)