Avery Engineering & Land Surveying Associates P.C. had purchased upgraded software AutoCADD 2007 and the Civil 3D package, which is a design and drafting tool. But the 22-year-old firm was not gaining the benefits of the latest technology because it needed help learning how to use it.

"Basically, the upgraded software is very good in and of itself, but without the training... we might as well have kept the old version," says Kip Finley, Professional Engineer. "A tool is only as good as the skills of the user."

Finley had worked successfully with RochesterWorks! in the past and was familiar with its programs, says Claudia Gately, Business Services Manager at RochesterWorks!

In November Avery Engineering benefitted from RochesterWorks! re-opening of the Customized Training Grant program. The firm qualified and was able to get funds to train employees on its new tools, Gately says.

Finley completed the application the first day it was possible and Avery Engineering was approved for funding in less than 24 hours, Gately says. Civil Engineers Justin Myers and Robert Fitzgerald took part in a three-day training session that covered every aspect of the tools with which they were working.

Within a month of the training, Avery Engineering was more efficient, and the small firm of eleven staffers started realizing "a real increase in productivity," Finley says. For example, Myers says, what now takes him about a week to complete used to take an intern all summer to do.

Avery Engineering is an example of how Customized Training Grants benefit a company. These grants provide funds to train employees in specific skills needed by the business or industry which leads to potential career growth, retention and increased wages, Gately says.

"The intention is to address employer demands for skilled workers and upgrade the skills of their employees earning between $8.00 and $25.00 per hour. Organizations may request up to $10,000 for training that can be completed in six months or less," she says.

RochesterWorks! has had a tremendous increase in applications for such grants. And even though Avery Engineering's application was turned around in less than 2 days, it generally takes five to seven business days, Gately says.

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