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For more information, contact:
Jane Shubayi Pearson
Senior Marketing Manager
APICS Marketing and Brand Management Division
(800) 444-2742 or (703) 354-8851, ext. 2271

For Immediate Release

APICS Introduces Innovative Approach to Distance Learning

Alexandria, VA (May 31, 2006) APICS The Association for Operations Management today unveiled a distance learning program with partner Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC) in Appleton, Wisconsin, to provide operations management training for supply chain professionals. Called Distance Learning Cohort Groups, this innovative approach combines the depth and structure of classroom education with the flexibility of Web-based delivery channels.

Hailed by industry experts as the wave of the future for training, education, and certification, the APICS Distance Learning Cohort Groups approach accelerates the global education process and strengthens end-to-end supply chain management by simultaneously delivering the APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Control (CPIM) curriculum to operations management professionals across company divisions around the world. As global supply planner for DuPont, Mauricio Tovar said, “With this online course the distances are not an issue anymore, so the key people in my supply chain outside of the United States can benefit from this course."

“As the world shrinks, our commitment to innovation grows“, said Karen Wynn Freeman, APICS Deputy Executive Director. “Working with our partners at Fox Valley Technical College, we’ve developed an incredibly valuable asynchronous delivery system that builds teams, enhances skills, and helps our customers fortify every link in their global supply chain,” Freeman continued.

Each Distance Learning Cohort Group includes approximately 20 students who learn and progress as a single team through the CPIM modules. Working with the Cohort Group in an online environment, instructors use videos, discussion boards, games, and other interactive tools to help students learn and network with their colleagues throughout the world. Upon completion of each CPIM module, students earn credits from FVTC, an accredited educational institution.

To learn more about how your company can participate, please contact APICS Global Sales and Alliances Division at 1-800-444-2742 ext. 2290 or e-mail solutions@apicshq.org. International customers, please call 703-444-2742 ext. 2290.

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About APICS The Association for Operations Management
APICS The Association for Operations Management is the global leader and premier source of the body of knowledge in operations management, including production, inventory, supply chain, materials management, purchasing, and logistics. Since 1957, individuals and companies have relied on APICS for its superior training, internationally recognized certifications, comprehensive resources, and worldwide network of accomplished industry professionals.

About Fox Valley Technical College
Fox Valley Technical College is committed to helping people reach their potential through education and training for employment. The college offers more than 80 associate degrees and technical diploma programs, nearly 120 short-term certificates, and instruction related to 20 apprenticeship trades, in addition to providing services to business and industry. Each year, the college serves nearly 50,000 people throughout its five-county district in northeastern Wisconsin. The FVTC Web site can be found at www.fvtc.edu.