Access to HACC's Entrepreneur in Residence enhances the education entrepreneurs acquire through the regular counseling and coursework offered by the Institute.
"Many of the students are looking to improve their skills in marketing, financial management and business planning in their own business or a business they are managing," explained Imler, who will serve in the position for one year. "As a working member of the private sector, I can share my own experiences, practical suggestions and networking opportunities with them so they are better prepared to meet their business objectives."
Imler, owner of Imler Technical Services, has contributed to several successful business ventures, including a maintenance service for a shopping center and a research and development consultant in the quartz industry. He also spent 38 years in education as an instructor of mathematics, physics and chemistry at both the secondary and collegiate levels; master instructor for the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary; supervisor of adult programs at a vocational-technical school; and dean of a junior college. Imler served on the board of directors for the Harrisburg Home Builders Association and served as chairman of the Pennsylvania Home Builders Show for eight years.
Considerable research on best practices in entrepreneurship indicates that a collaboration of the academic and the business communities, as well as the availability of mentors and entrepreneurial models, results in the most prepared and capable entrepreneurs. The availability of a "real world" model and the familiarity with the region's go-to network before the business opens gives the entrepreneur confidence in and a relationship with the business community in which he or she will operate.
The HACC Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies includes both credit and non-credit programs intended to educate people of all ages who are interested in starting and growing a business. Call the Institute at 717-221-1311 for more information.