Jobs and Trained Workforce:  A Pacific Rim Priority

We are continually aware of the economic activity going on within the Pacific Rim – trade, investment, merger and acquisitions, strategic alliances, joint ventures, etc.  With the increasing interdependence of the Pacific Rim and with capital, goods, manufacturing and technology seamlessly blending across national boundaries, there is a demand for training programs that acquaint Asians and Americans with their respective cultures, management styles, and job opportunities. During my four years as Dean of the School of Business and Management at Woodbury University and as a trustee, I’d like to share my experience with the role that many Southern California colleges and universities are taking in responding to training programs and educating the workforce.

Educational and training programs in the Pacific Rim vary from informal programs for numerous business and government leaders to extensive educational and training formats resulting in a non-academic certificate of completion.  Furthermore, there are opportunities to participate in programs at Asian and American institutions which open job opportunities for young people.

Let me address some programs in more detail:
For example, this year we had approximately 10 delegations from China visiting Woodbury for education and training in western management as well as field trips to California companies to get a first hand look at how California companies implement management techniques.  These delegations were comprised of top government and business leaders from various provinces and cities in China.  In preparing for these programs, we inquire from the Chinese as to what their interests and priorities are.  While there are some unique and different interests, it is noteworthy that their priorities fall into a pattern.  Most of these groups want to be better informed on marketing, human resources, production & general management, legal systems and quality control.  There is emphasis on specific requests from specialized delegations such as taxation, intellectual properties, entrepreneurship, venture capital and information technology.  Utilizing faculty from Woodbury and other institutions, classes are provided coupled with company visitations. 

A variation of this format is offering certificate courses in management for Asian government and business leaders.  These courses are custom tailored and usually include 8-12 weeks of lectures, classes, and company visitations.  At the completion of these courses, the participants receive a certificate acknowledging their successful completion of the program.

In many Pacific Rim training and educational programs there is the opportunity for faculty and student exchange.  The experience for students to study overseas is invaluable and it also enhances the global image of the university. 

The current trend in the Pacific Rim, training and job creation, is going to continue to expand in the years ahead.  Much of the momentum will come from China whose business in government leaders want to learn more about western management.  Institutions of higher learning and business entities in the San Gabriel Valley, will play a significant role in providing viable programs for Asian and American business leaders. 
This will result in strengthening ties between our countries as well as establishing meaningful business relationships, investment opportunities and flow of capital between the Pacific Rim and San Gabriel Valley firms.

Richard King is Chairman Emeritus of Woodbury University; Director, Pacific Rim Programs at Woodbury University; Chairman/Founder King International Group. 626 792 4729