Team Building Gives Steuben County Manufacturers a Workforce Advantage

A production line’s performance depends on the people behind it. When employees understand their roles, communicate clearly, and collaborate to solve problems, manufacturers respond more effectively to daily challenges. Conversely, poor communication or lack of accountability can negatively impact safety, quality, productivity, and retention.

For Steuben County manufacturers, building effective teams is key to workforce development and retention. To support this, the Steuben County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC), in partnership with Purdue MEP, will offer Team Building in Manufacturing on October 29, 2026.

This four-hour training provides manufacturing leaders and employees with practical tools to improve team performance. Participants will analyze team dynamics, identify performance gaps, and develop actionable strategies for their organizations.

Build More Effective Teams

Team building involves more than assembling employees. Teams require clear expectations, effective communication, accountability, and a shared understanding of how individual roles support operational goals.

Participants will engage in hands-on activities and real-world manufacturing scenarios to better understand team function and identify areas for improvement.

Participants will learn how to:

• Identify team dynamics and performance gaps.
• Improve communication among team members.
• Build greater accountability within teams.
• Address challenges that affect team effectiveness.
• Apply practical strategies to improve collaboration.
• Support cross-training and employee development.

These skills benefit manufacturers of all sizes, from small operations to large facilities with multiple teams and supervisors.

Apply Skills Across Your Operation

The benefits of this training extend beyond the production floor. Effective teamwork leads to safer workplaces, consistent processes, stronger employee engagement, and improved problem-solving.

• Managers and supervisors can apply this training to enhance daily team interactions.
• Employees can use these skills across departments, when training new coworkers, or addressing production challenges.
• Business leaders can leverage improved team practices for succession planning and to prepare employees for greater responsibility.

Investing in these skills aligns with SCEDC's broader workforce development and business retention goals. Supporting local employers in building strong teams helps retain employees, develop internal talent, and address workforce challenges.

For Steuben County manufacturers, workforce development is ongoing. Training that builds practical skills helps businesses develop current employees and prepare them for future roles.

Register for Team Building in Manufacturing

Team Building in Manufacturing will be held on October 29, 2026, at the SCEDC offices in Angola. Participants may choose from two sessions:

• Morning: 8 a.m. to noon ET
• Afternoon: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. ET

The cost is $125 per attendee. Registration closes October 22.

Manufacturers interested in improving team effectiveness, developing employees, or supporting long-term workforce development can contact the Steuben County Economic Development Corporation to learn more about this training and other leadership courses.

Contact SCEDC to Strengthen Your Workforce

Contact SCEDC to learn more about Team Building in Manufacturing, upcoming leadership training, and workforce development resources for Steuben County businesses.