Through these avenues we desire to pursue the professional development of ourselves and our colleagues, the success of our teams, and the sustainability and prosperity of our industries and communities.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT: This program is supported by a grant from the Minnesota Renewable Energy Marketplace– Alliance for Talent Development (www.mnrem.org.) The series is delivered in a Two-Dimension Learning Model™ in which workshop material mirrors the Individual Leadership Plan developed during one-on-one coaching sessions.

OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE: Learn and implement best practices for improving manufacturing processes. Proven methods in Lean Manufacturing principles can reduce the various types of waste resulting in meaningful business outcomes. SMAFE can assist in how to best meet the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) certification for food manufacturers and processors. Ethanol organizations can learn about and get assistance in ISO certification options.

EMPLOYEE SKILL ENHANCEMENT: At the direction of our members, we routinely offer training and development opportunities that provide technical and soft skill enhancement for our employees. The collaboration of the group allows us to access a wide variety of world-class learning opportunities at a considerably lower cost.

Member benefits
Membership is free and includes many benefits.

COST SAVINGS: Our facilitators cut training costs by negotiating reduced vendor fees, ensuring maximum attendance, sharing training-related expenses, and applying for grant opportunities.

APPLICABLE TRAINING: Training is customized and industry-specific and is developed based on the the input from SMAFE members.

CONVENIENCE: SMAFE members govern the training content, schedule, locations, attendance,
and cost.