Author: Linda Duffy

Myers Group Celebrates 12th RMCP Graduate, Chris Kyser

Posted on by Linda Duffy

Chris Kyser, Store Director of the Camano Plaza ACE Hardware, was presented with his Retail Management Certificate on Friday, August 12, 2022 by Tyler Myers, President of Myers Group which operates a variety of retail entities in the state of Washington.

Kyser, who had long wanted to go back to school, took advantage of the opportunity to complete the eight-course RMC Program through Clover Park Technical College.  “The courses helped me learn necessary skills to increase my store’s bottom line and to better understand what it takes to be a successful manager and team leader,” said Kyser.

Kyser encouraged those thinking about enrolling in the Retail Management Certificate Program, to do so.  He shared, “I was able to  make it work with my busy schedule. The courses will help you elevate your career and grow as a person. I highly recommend it!”

Tyler Myers expressed his support and added, “We are super proud of Chris for completing this program and improving himself through advanced education. Way to go Chris! You are a star and stand for everything we try to be at the Myers Group.”

Industry Leaders Discuss the RMCP’s Vital Role with Kevin Coupe/MNB

Posted on by Linda Duffy

Cherie Phipps of the Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC), Mike Hendry of Northgate Markets, and both Patrick Posey and Joe Reichard of Bristol Farms/Good Food Holdings joined Kevin Coupe, Content Editor for the Morning News Beat to discuss the importance of the Retail Management Certificate Program in creating equal opportunity and fostering social justice for all associates looking to find a pathway to a rewarding career in the grocery industry.  Click for Oct. 26, 2020 interview.

 

The Retail Management Certificate Holds a Key Link to Retention and Promotion

Posted on by Linda Duffy

In an article published May 18, 2020 by Brandman University, Matt Venegas, the university’s Assistant Vice Chancellor of Community and Corporate Relations,  along with Bryan Kaltenbach, President of Krogers’ Food 4 Less/Foods Co Divisions, and Cherie Phipps, Education Director for the WAFC, shares insights for retaining rising company talent.

Key to retention is providing access for professional development and relevant certificates like the Retail Management Certificate.  Read the full article by clicking on this link.

Retail Management Program Hits Milestone of 3,000 Graduates

Posted on by Linda Duffy

The Western Association of Food Chains’ (WAFC) most widely-available education program; the community college Retail Management Certificate, reached a milestone number of 3,000 graduates mid-October 2019!  This record number was attained just 18 months after the program hit 2,000 graduates in 2018.

According to Sarah Wehling, WAFC President Chairwoman and Vice President, Fresh Foods at Costco
Wholesale, “Achieving this significant milestone of 3,000 graduates is a celebration of WAFC’s
execution on our pure mission of ‘Advancing the Food Industry through Education and Leadership.”

The 8-course community college level curriculum was developed in partnership with our nation’s
community colleges, specifically to build the hard and soft skills required for careers in our industry. It
incorporates the foundational and critical knowledge, technology, communications and leadership
abilities required for career success in every facet of the increasingly sophisticated grocery
industry. The program is available 100% online nationwide, and at approved campuses as well.

For more information about the program, peruse the “About the Program” section of the www.retailmanagementcertificate.com website.

First PepsiCo Graduate Awarded Retail Management Certificate

Posted on by Linda Duffy

PepsiCo Sales District Leader, Alex Branch (pictured on left), was awarded the Retail Management Certificate October 25th at a special ceremony in Everett, Washington.  Branch, who completed his coursework at Clover Park Technical College, is the first PepsiCo associate to earn the certificate.  He is pictured with Ryan Reygers, the Retail Management Program Director at Clover Park.

Gelson’s “Class of 2019” is Honored at Cerritos College

Posted on by Linda Duffy

Gelson’s Markets is pleased to announce 19 Retail Management Certificate Program graduates completed their coursework in Spring 2019.  Seven of these students along with AA candidate, Fernando Gomez, participated in graduation exercises at Cerritos College on Friday, May 24th.   Gelson’s students have a tradition of academic excellence as demonstrated by Gomez, who graduated with honors, and Molly Martinez, who earned highest honors.

According to Beatrice Rojas, Assistant Store Director in Santa Monica, “The classes were a great learning experience!  I acquired knowledge that I now use everyday at work.  I’ve gained confidence which helps me to better manage my employees.   I believe that in learning the parts of the retail industry, I have a greater understanding of the whole.”

“Going back to school after 40 years was a dream come true through the WAFC Retail Management Program!” added Training Coordinator, Molly Martinez.   “I now feel more knowledgeable about the different areas of the retail business.  This program is tailored so well, and is a wonderful opportunity for anyone to learn and grow in the retail field.”

Pictured Left to Right: Molly Martinez, Encino Office, Training Coordinator; Janneli Narez, Accounts Payable Clerk; Monica Argueta, Executive Assistant; Melissa Merchant, Buying Assistant; Marilyn Cabrera, Buying Assistant; Fernando Gomez; Charles Hill, Assistant Manager, Century City; Beatrice Rojas, Assistant Store Director, Santa Monica.

 

Chase Havlic Wins WAFC’s “Selfie Contest!”

Posted on by Linda Duffy

Chase Havlic, a Retail Management Program graduate from Ralphs supermarket, submitted the winning entry in the Western Association of Food Chain’s (WAFC) Fall 2018 “Selfie Contest!”

All Retail Management Program graduates were invited to submit a short video to share their experience with the program and it’s impact on their lives.  The submitted entries were inspiring, but Chase’s unique story of professional and personal success was particularly engaging.  Chase was invited to the 2019 WAFC Convention, where a professionally produced version of his video was premiered before member companies and guests.   After the video ended, it was announced from the WAFC main stage that Chase was being promoted to Assistant Manager; effective immediately!

You can view Chare Havlic’s story at this link: https://retailmanagementcertificate.com/

If you are a Retail Management Program graduate, we would love to hear your story!  Submit your own “selfie video” at this link: https://retailmanagementcertificate.com/for-graduates/share-your-story/  

WAFC’s Retail Management Certificate Program Hits 2,700 Graduates in Spring 2019!

Posted on by Linda Duffy

(LAKEWOOD, CALIF.) — The Western Association of Food Chains’ most widely-available educational program, the community college Retail Management Certificate, has experienced a “boon year” of graduates!   With 700 students completing coursework between Fall 2018 and Spring 2019, the program now boasts 2,700 certificate recipients!

As the food industry evolves with changes in products, processes, technology and competition, the program provides relevant real-life learning to develop future leaders.  Collectively, food industry workers across the U.S. complete nearly 10,000 courses a year as they aspire to earn the credential.

Introduced in partnership with 150 community colleges, the Retail Management Certificate is an accredited community college program designed to provide our workforce with the critical skills and knowledge needed to attain management roles in the grocery industry.  The first graduates completed the program in 2002.  Today, the eight-course curriculum is available at community colleges throughout the nation and 100% online.

For more information on the Retail Management Certificate and how to participate, go to www.RetailManagementCertificate.com. To learn more about the WAFC, go to www.wafc.com

Ralphs Honors 48 Retail Management Graduates at February 1st Event

Posted on by Linda Duffy

Departing from tradition, Ralphs Grocery Stores honored their “Class of 2016” Retail Management Graduates on Wednesday, February 1, 2017 with the company’s first WAFC Graduate Luncheon.  In the past, Ralphs had thrown elaborate awards dinners, but based on student interest, the company’s Talent Management Team hosted an event which combined a luncheon with networking and higher education break-out sessions.  The 48 graduates were given the opportunity to network with district staff and company vice presidents who would have a direct effect on their next promotion.  Additionally, they were able to discuss and plan their next educational goals.