River's Edge Resources
Books, guides, and tools developed from decades on the floor and in the classroom — for workforce professionals, training directors, and manufacturers who are tired of theory.
Books & Digital Guides
Every resource here comes from real programs that ran in real facilities with real apprentices. No filler, no fluff.
A complete competency-based framework for developing or auditing an electrical apprenticeship program — built from IBEW-aligned curriculum used inside automotive manufacturing environments.
A plain-language guide to every major Ohio training fund — IWIP, Perkins, WIOA, and more — with application tips, eligibility checklists, and stacking strategies. Updated as programs change.
How to build a training program that actually sticks — from needs analysis to delivery format to competency verification. Written for training directors in manufacturing environments.
A one-page printable checklist covering the 22 decisions you need to make before launching a registered apprenticeship program — from DOL registration to mentor selection.
Three ready-to-customize agreement templates for formalizing relationships between manufacturers and community colleges — MOU, training partnership, and apprenticeship sponsor agreement.
Short-form and long-form survey instruments for colleges and consultants conducting employer needs assessments. Includes analysis guide and reporting template.
IWIP — Incumbent Worker Training Program eligibility, rates, and application walkthrough
Perkins V — How to access CTE funds through your community college partner
WIOA — Local workforce board relationships and how to access adult & dislocated worker funds
HS Credential Incentive — IWIP payments for high school work-based learning programs
Stacking strategies — How to combine multiple programs for maximum training ROI
TechCred — Current status and how to get on the notification list for the next round
Why this guide exists
Most manufacturers know these programs exist. Almost none know how to access them, stack them, or navigate the application process without spending weeks on hold with a state agency.
Recommended Tools
Books, equipment, and resources I've used in workforce training environments. Some links are Amazon affiliate links.
NJATC and ATP-published titles used in accredited apprenticeship programs
SME, ASQ, and PMMI titles for training managers and workforce developers
Lab equipment for electrical, fluid power, and PLC training environments
Competency verification tools, skills gap analysis, and instructional design references
Speaking & Workshops
Available for conferences, workforce board convenings, and college professional development events.
Why manufacturers and community colleges keep missing each other — and the three structural changes that close the divide. For college leadership and workforce boards.
A plain-language session on IWIP, Perkins, WIOA, and registered apprenticeship incentives. Practical, current, built for HR and training directors.
From DOL registration to competency design to mentor selection — what makes apprenticeship programs succeed long-term in manufacturing environments.
Speaker fees vary by event type, travel, and duration. Workshop formats available for half-day and full-day sessions. Ohio-based events preferred.
Inquire About Speaking