Following the Yellow Brick Road?

For those on the career path and who lack knowledge, like the Scarecrow, or who are afraid to take action, like the Cowardly Lion, MHMS can help.

-- Modern Materials Handling, 1/1/2001

We all know the story of Dorothy's adventures in the Land of Oz. It occurred to me that her quest for the Wizard is a perfect metaphor for many materials handling professionals who appear to be wandering aimlessly down a career path.

Like the Scarecrow, they lack the knowledge that is required to keep them competitive. Some are like the Cowardly Lion. They are afraid to take the step toward continuing their professional development. Or worse still, some are like the Tin Man. They have lost heart as they have seen others pass them and receive promotions they feel they deserved.

In this high tech world, one must maintain his or her competitive edge. Many are finding that a breadth of experience is just as much in demand as the concentration of knowledge. One way to demonstrate broad knowledge is to earn a CAMH or a PCMH designation. Either certification provides a definitive measurement for recognizing the professional who has mastered a significant body of knowledge and experience.

MHMS offers a two-tier certification program to its members. Certification is available as a Certified Professional in Materials Handling (CAMH) and as a Professional Certified in Materials Handling (PCMH).

MHMS and the Material Handling Institute provide educational opportunities and resources for the materials handling professional to prepare for certification.

The ProMat 2001 Educational Conference, February 12-15, 2001 in Chicago, offers four distinct classroom opportunities: 1) a new single-track Executive Symposium; 2) hands-on workshops; 3) in-depth tutorials, and 4) focused seminars. Attendees can receive Continuing Education Units (CEUs) by attending ProMat 2001 educational sessions, while increasing their materials handling logistics knowledge and, more importantly, improving their ability to do their jobs.

And, exploring the ProMat Productivity City's 290,000 sq ft plus of exhibits will give you firsthand experience with materials handling and logistics equipment systems and services. To register for ProMat, visit www.mhia.org and click on ProMat.

Stop looking for the wizard. A hard fact of business life is that there is no wizard who can build you a better career. You must do it yourself. You can sharpen your skills and advance your career by building a better you.

For more information on MHMS and its educational opportunities, local chapters, networking, and social events, please visit our web site at www.mhia.org/mhms , call our headquarters at 704-676-1183.