NORWICH – A group of 16 graduates of a local manufacturing skills course discussed employment opportunities with representatives from three of the area’s largest businesses Thursday.

The opportunity followed the group’s final class at the Chenango County Workforce Investment Board, 1 O’Hara Dr., Norwich. Executives from Unison Industries, Norwich Aero and Raymond Corporation gave presentations and answered potential employees’ questions.

The 52-hour long course, created by Broome Community College, was designed to upgrade the following skills: computer use, report writing, assembly drawing, shop floor math, using measuring devices and hand tools, attention to quality, and communications. Teaching and program support was conducted by professional trainers from SUNY Delhi and Morrisville State College

“The program was designed to teach those skills that many local manufacturers have said that potential employees needed,” said Gary Waffle, director of the Chenango County Office of Employment and Training.

In her presentation, Raymond Organizational Developer Sue Rice said the forklift manufacturer had hired individuals following previous Workforce Investment Board classes. Though she said there were few job openings currently, she encouraged the graduates to make application through the company’s web site. “We always have people applying,” she said.

“Raymond has longevity. It is a stable company and invests in its facilities, its equipment and its employees,” she said. “Raymond is just unbelievable with what they do for their employees.”

Rice said she herself had been with the company for 30 years and received 100 percent of the tuition which paid for both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

Tim Doyle, an engineering and quality assurance manager at Norwich Aero, said while the aerospace company had no openings currently, a recent order for parts from a large customer could mean new operator positions becoming available. “If everything goes well,” he said.

The company’s eight product lines of sensors utilized in most aircraft are sold to hundreds of customer’s worldwide. “It’s a great place to work,” Doyle said.

Unison Industries’ Molly Harp said there were two, full-time entry level positions open currently as well as several temporary positions. “Starting out temporary is a good way to get in,” she said. “We hope you consider Unison in your job search because we are excited to find out more about what you bring to the table.”