QBTC/Two Rivers Lunch and Learn series starts Thursday

The Quincy Business and Technology Center and Two Rivers Regional Council of Public Officials are offering a three-part Lunch and Learn series beginning at 11:45 a.m. Thursday at the QBTC, 301 Oak, with local business consultant Roger Leenerts.

The first session will focus on basic problem-solving methods.

“Unfortunately, there are always problems at work,” Leenerts said in a press release. “It is important for employees at all levels in an organization learn how to define a problem, evaluate possible solutions, select the best strategy and implement the plan. When we use these skills, productivity and quality are increased. Learning to solve problems correctly is more than a ‘work-related’ skill. It is a skill we can use in all facets of life.”

The second session on Oct. 14 will focus on SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis for new businesses, products and services.

“SWOT is a tool used to assess your current position,” Leenerts said. “It can help you determine whether you should start a new business. It can help point you in the correct direction of expanding your current business with a new service or product.”

The third session on Oct. 28 will focus on harvesting your business.

“Burned out? You’ve probably spent years growing your business, maybe even your lifetime. Now what?” Leenerts said. “There are many options on how to harvest or ‘reap the fruits of your labor.’ Let’s review the options for an exit strategy.”

All events are in person and will last approximately an hour. The deadline to pre-register and receive a free lunch is three days before each session. Participants will receive a confirmation email upon acceptance of your registration.

Leenerts is a business consultant with a background in a wide range of manufacturing processes such as machining, assembly, metal fabrication and plastic injection molding. He has worked for three large corporations, where he learned a multitude of techniques associated with getting new products successfully introduced into the manufacturing process and solving problems that occur in an industrial setting.

He also owned a tool and die shop for 16 years. After the sale of that business, Leenerts has enjoyed teaching and coaching individuals in business leadership, entrepreneurship, supply chain education and specific technical training (problem solving, metal stamping, plant layout, quality control methods, tooling design options, factory automation, etc.)

Leenerts has a mechanical engineering degree from Bradley University and an MBA from Keller Graduate School of Management in Chicago. He enjoys volunteering with Junior Achievement, Rotary and the Quincy Park District.

Contact QBTC Director Charles Bell at 217-228-5500 or director@qbtc.org.