July 10, 2007 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CAMBRIDGE, ON – A local manufacturer has received a national award from the Canadian Council on Learning recognizing innovative efforts to bring learning opportunities into the workplace.

Over the past year, MW Canada has been working with the Textiles Human Resources Council as part of an industry-wide initiative to develop onsite learning facilities within the textile sector. By developing individual learning plans and providing paid training time each month, MW Canada intends to ensure its employees are ready to take on a changing global market.

"It has become essential that we upgrade the knowledge, skills and ability of our employees," said Bob Berger, President of MW Canada. "Innovative processes and active participation in the workplace are the direct result of making training available onsite."

Canada’s $6 billion primary textile manufacturing industry faces rapidly accelerating technology, an aging workforce, intense international competition, rising energy prices and a high Canadian dollar. Developing a workplace learning culture in support of a skilled and adaptable workforce is vital to addressing these challenges.

With the help of the Textiles Human Resources Council, state-of-the-art Skills and Learning Sites in 32 textile workplaces bring learning opportunities directly to employees. The Sites support mentoring and personal development, and provide opportunities for networks within and among textile companies that support knowledge sharing. Skills and Learning Portals – customized, dedicated websites at each Site – facilitate personalized learning plans and provide access to training resources.

The "Sharing the Flame" Work & Learning award recognizes promising practices in workplace learning, and was presented at an award ceremony in Ottawa in June. MW Canada’s ongoing commitment to this project is considered an important model for Canada’s small and medium-sized businesses.

Mr. Berger noted, "MW Canada has taken the approach that innovation is a direct result of dedicated skills development. Our ability to be innovative will be the deciding factor on whether or not we continue to be viable contributors to the textile industry."

MW Canada manufactures window coverings, cubicle fabrics and niche market specialty items. The company is developing a unique workplace learning culture in support of business objectives.

The Textiles Human Resources Council is a non-profit partnership led by industry CEOs and union leaders committed to developing innovative skills solutions for the textile workforce. With partial funding from the Government of Canada’s Sector Council Program, the Council partners with textile companies to bring a comprehensive training system into the workplace.