AOS Employee Development Guide

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Table Of Contents I

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INTRODUCTION 3. Leadership Quote 4. Welcome Message 5. A. O. Smith Statement of Values 6. Purpose & Value of Development 7. The 70-20-10 Development Model

IDENTIFYING SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES 8. What Are Competencies & Skills 9. Competencies vs. Skills 10. Five Steps to Improve Skills 11. Four Steps to Skill Development 12. Reflect and Take Action 13. Skills for Each Role Level

DEVELOPMENT COURSES 15.

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Building Your Personal Development Plan (PDP) A. O. Smith Course Matrix (Core, Supervisor, Manager Levels) Franklin Covey Course Matrix Franklin Covey Leadership Courses Skills Development Courses

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

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Franklin Covey All Access Pass Overview Gemba Academy Overview HRDQ Soft Skills Overview Skillsoft Overview Get Abstract Overview Tooling U Overview Certification Preparation

FAQ’S AND CONTACT INFORMATION 46. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 48. Key Messages 49. Contact Information 50. Let’s Grow Together

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Welcome Message We are excited to introduce the A.O. Smith Employee Development Guide, a testament to our commitment to nurturing and empowering our workforce.

At A. O. Smith, we believe our people are our greatest asset, and this catalog has been designed with your growth and success in mind. Whether you're looking to enhance your leadership abilities, build technical expertise, or explore new career paths, we provide the resources you need to thrive.

Investing in your development is not only beneficial for you, but essential for the continued success of our company. By supporting your growth, we strengthen our collective capabilities as a team. We encourage you to explore the opportunities within this guide and embark on a journey of continuous learning and improvement.

Together, we will shape a brighter future for A. O. Smith

Michele Blake Michele Blake Talent Development Manger A. O. Smith

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A. O. Smith Statement of Values A. O. SMITH WILL ACHIEVE PROFITABLE GROWTH We will drive profitable growth by delivering innovative, high-quality products, fostering job security and career advancement, ensuring stockholder returns, and promoting socially responsible, strategic growth exceeding the U.S. economy.

A. O. SMITH WILL EMPHASIZE INNOVATION We will emphasize innovation by achieving market leadership, enhancing productivity, fostering creativity, empowering employees, and driving profitable growth through a disciplined, forward-thinking approach.

A. O. SMITH WILL PRESERVE ITS GOOD NAME We will preserve our good name by upholding uncompromising integrity, adhering to laws, ensuring fairness, maintaining high-quality standards, and fostering ethical values globally.

A. O. SMITH WILL BE A GOOD PLACE TO WORK We will attract talented individuals, foster teamwork, promote diversity, ensure fairness, support personal growth, uphold ethical values, and provide a safe, respectful workplace.

A. O. SMITH WILL BE A GOOD CITIZEN We will serve the public and our communities by fostering economic growth, supporting civic engagement, ensuring environmental compliance, advancing ESG initiatives, and upholding the free enterprise system.

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Purpose & Value of Development The Importance of Employee Development At A. O. Smith, we recognize that employee development is essential to both personal and organizational success. Development provides employees with opportunities to grow their skills, advance in their careers, and achieve their fullest potential. Through a commitment to continuous learning, A. O. Smith helps employees remain engaged, motivated, and ready for future challenges driving higher job satisfaction and fostering personal growth.

The Impact on Organizational Success Investing in employee development does more than benefit individuals; it strengthens overall performance and cultivates a culture of innovation and adaptability. This focus on development ensures that our workforce is wellequipped to meet evolving business needs and helps us retain top talent.

Empowering Growth for Team Success By empowering our people to grow, we’re building a more resilient, capable team that contributes to our shared vision of success

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The 70-20-10 Model At A.O. Smith, we use the 70-20-10 learning & development model to guide employee development. This approach ensures a balanced focus on experiential, social, and formal learning opportunities: 70%: On-the-Job Experiences Employees develop most effectively by applying their skills in real-world situations, taking on challenges, and gaining hands-on experience.

20%: Interactions with Others Learning through interactions with others—such as mentorship, feedback, and collaboration—fosters personal and professional growth.

10%: Formal Training Structured learning opportunities like training programs, workshops, or certifications provide essential knowledge and skills.

This balanced model ensures that A. O. Smith employees continuously: Develop practical skills.

Learn and grow through peer interactions.

Enhance their expertise with formal education.

On-the-job experiences

Interactions with others

Formal Training

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Competencies & Skills What are Competencies?

Competencies are defined as the integration of knowledge, skills, and behaviors that emphasize how work is executed, ensuring performance meets or exceeds expectations. These include traits like: Drives Results

Communication

Collaboration

Manages Complexity

Technical

Leadership

Problem Solving

Organizational

Data Analysis

Communication

Critical Thinking

Time Managment

Programing

Empathy

Decision Making

Attention to Detail

Equipment

Team Guidance

Creativity

Task Prioritization

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Competencies vs. Skills To excel in any role, it’s essential to understand the difference between competencies and skills. Both play unique roles in driving success, but they contribute in distinct ways.

Let’s break down how competencies and skills work together to enhance your performance and impact."

Competencies

Skills

focus on how we work qualities like teamwork, adaptability, and communication

focus on what we do specific, measurable abilities, such as project management and data analysis.

Why Competencies and Skills Matter Understanding both competencies and skills is essential to personal and career growth. Competencies drive effective collaboration, decision-making, and leadership, while skills allow us to accomplish tasks with precision.

By developing both, you contribute meaningfully to team goals and position yourself for future opportunities within A.O. Smith.

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5 Steps to Improve Your Skills Follow these five steps to make meaningful progress in your skill development journey.

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Identify your strengths and opportunities

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Set SMART goals

Practice regularly

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Use Available Resources

Seek Feedback

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Four Steps to Skill Development 1. Identify Role Level Review the competency framework to identify your role.

2. Consult the Skills Matrix Review the key skills required for your role, focusing on the skills needed to succeed.

3. Explore Relevant Courses Explore the recommended courses aligned with your development needs to close any skill gaps.

4. Create a Development Plan Incorporate the selected courses into your SuccessFactors development plan to track progress.

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Reflect & Take Action "Regular reflection and purposeful action are essential for continuous growth. Taking time to assess your progress helps you recognize strengths, identify areas for improvement, and stay aligned with your goals. With each reflection, set actionable steps to keep moving forward and advancing your development journey."

Reflecting on Progress: Evaluate the skills you’ve developed and areas where you can still improve.

Reflecting on your progress keeps you aligned with your goals and helps you stay motivated.”

Taking Action: Based on what you’ve learned, set new goals to continue your growth journey. Actionoriented reflection ensures you’re always moving forward with purpose.

Remember, growth is a journey that never stops. Each time you look back, it’s a chance to adjust and set new goals that match your dreams.

Take each step with purpose, knowing that even small actions can lead to big changes. Stay committed and curious as you shape your path to success.

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Skills for Each Role Level As you advance, certain skills become increasingly essential for success. Each role level builds upon foundational abilities, adding new competencies that drive effectiveness and impact. Here’s a snapshot of the key skills needed at each stage to support your growth.

Role

Managing Yourself

Managing Projects

Supervisor

Manager

Key Skills

Business Acumen, Accountability, Continuous Improvement, Customer Service Flexibility, Adaptability, Goal Achievement, Interpersonal Skils, Productivity, Teamwork

Description

Focuses on personal responsibility, developing skills, managing time effectively, and achieving individual goals.

Collaboration, Decision Making, Delegation, Drive for Results, Financial Acumen, Meeting Management, Motivating Others, Organizational Insight, Influencing Others Planning, Problem Solving, Sharing Information, Team Building

Oversees specific projects by planning, coordinating resources, setting deadlines, and ensuring successful completion.

Coaching, Conflict Management, Delegation, Developing Others, Drive for Results, Feedback, Interviewing / Selection, Listening, Managing Change, Motivating Others, Recognition, Team Building

Leads a small team by managing daily tasks, resolving conflicts, providing feedback, and promoting teamwork to achieve collective goals.

Creativity/Innovation, Financial Acumen, Fostering Open Dialogue, Influencing Others, Negotiating, Organizational Insight, Presentation Skills, Risk Taking, Strategic Thinking, Writing Effectively

Provides strategic direction to larger teams or departments, aligning team efforts with organizational objectives, fostering development, and supporting long-term growth.

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Your Learning Journey Starts Here A. O. Smith provides a wide range of learning opportunities through our internal courses and partnerships with leading providers such as Franklin Covey, Skillsoft, Excelerated Learning, Myers-Briggs, Tooling U, Get Abstract, and Gemba Academy.

On the next pages, explore how these resources can help you build the skills you need to thrive and grow in your role.

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Building Your Development Plan At A. O. Smith, employees utilize the SuccessFactors Development and Performance module to set and monitor their growth. Each January, you'll enter your SMART developmental and performance goals, outlining what you aim to accomplish in the coming year. This structured process promotes your success by providing ongoing tracking and continuous feedback.

01. Set SMART Goals Define goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, ensuring each aligns with your career growth and team objectives.

02. Track Progress with Milestones Break goals into milestones within the module to monitor progress, staying on target and adjusting as needed.

03. Engage in Mid-Year & End-of-Year Reviews At mid-year, review progress with your manager, discuss adjustments, and get feedback. The year-end review finalizes achievements and sets future goals.

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A. O. Smith Course Matrix Tailored Learning for Everyone A. O. Smith is committed to your growth and success through tailored learning experiences. This matrix highlights our unique internal courses, specifically designed to build the core skills that reflect our company’s values and culture.

How the Matrix Works: The matrix matches courses with the skills they develop: Courses (Y-Axis): Displayed along the left side.

Skills (X-Axis): Shown across the top.

Dots: Indicate the link between each course and the relevant skill.

Why this Matters: These internal courses are designed to align with A. O. Smith’s culture, helping every employee develop critical skills like accountability, communication, and innovation.

Whether you’re looking to grow in your current role or prepare for future opportunities, the matrix provides a clear roadmap for success.

Take the Next Step: Explore the A. O. Smith Skills Course Matrix on the next page to find the courses that align with your goals and core competencies!

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Core Skills to Course Index

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Core Skills to Course Index

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Supervisor Skills to Course Index

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Supervisor Skills to Course Index

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Manager Skills to Course Index

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Manager Skills to Course Index

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Franklin Covey Course Matrix Leadership Programs from a Trusted Partner Franklin Covey is a trusted partner in leadership and professional development. This matrix showcases their proven programs designed to help you build essential skills and achieve personal and organizational success. Explore these courses to enhance your leadership capabilities and align with A. O. Smith’s commitment to excellence

How the Matrix Works: The matrix matches courses with the skills they develop: Courses (Y-Axis): Displayed along the left side.

Skills (X-Axis): Shown across the top.

Dots: Indicate the link between each course and the relevant skill.

Focus Areas: To make navigation easier, the matrix is presented in two views based on focus areas: 1. By Role: Supervisors & Managers Individual Contributors & Team Leads 2. By Culture & Goals: Winning Culture Breakthrough Results These two views make it easy to find what you need. The Role-based view focuses on skills for your current job or career goals. The Culture & Goals view connects your growth to your organization’s bigger picture.

Take the Next Step: Explore the next page to find the courses and skills that align with your goals.

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Leader Skills to Course Index

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Leader Skills to Course Index

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Leader Skills to Course Index

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Leadership Courses Speed of Trust Foundations* Build trust to accelerate results and improve collaboration. This course teaches participants how to enhance personal credibility, foster transparent communication, and address trust gaps effectively. Strengthen relationships, drive performance, and create a high-trust culture.

Target Audience: Individual Contributor, Team Lead

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Credibility, Trust, Transparent Communication, Keep Commitments

Leading at the Speed of Trust* Learn how to lead through trust to improve team performance and organizational results. This course equips leaders with the tools to build trust quickly, restore it when broken, and inspire others to follow with confidence. Enhance credibility, foster collaboration, and drive success through high-trust leadership.

Target Audience: Supervisor, Manager

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Modeling Trust, Trust Assessment, Restoring Trust, High-Trust Culture

7 Habits of Highly Effective People* Learn timeless principles to increase effectiveness in all areas of life. This course helps participants develop habits to prioritize tasks, strengthen relationships, and achieve meaningful goals. Build resilience and align actions with values to maximize success.

Target Audience: Supervisor, Manager

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Proactivity, Goal Setting, Communication, Problem Solving

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Leadership Courses 4 Essential Roles of Leadership* Master the key roles leaders play to inspire trust, align teams, and drive results. This course equips participants with tools to execute strategy, build relationships, coach team members, and achieve sustainable success. Lead with clarity and influence to empower others.

Target Audience: Individual Contributor, Team Lead

Length: 2 days

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Trust, Creating Vision/Strategy Execution, Coaching & Developing

5 Choices of Extraordinary Productivity* Learn to manage attention, not just time, to achieve extraordinary results. This course helps participants prioritize tasks, eliminate distractions, and make high-impact decisions. Develop habits that enhance focus, energy, and productivity in both work and life.

Target Audience: Supervisor, Manager

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies : Decision Making, Attention Managment, Energy Managment, Time Managment

6 Critical Practices for Leading A Team* Equip yourself with essential skills to lead teams effectively in today’s dynamic workplace. This course focuses on practical tools to build trust, hold impactful conversations, manage priorities, and inspire team performance. Lead with confidence and drive results.

Target Audience: Supervisor, Manager

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Delegation, Feedback, Building Team Culture, Managing Performance

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Leadership Courses 7 Habits for Managers* Empower managers with the habits to lead themselves and their teams effectively. This course provides practical tools to improve decision-making, prioritize tasks, build trust, and achieve results through collaborative leadership. Align team goals with organizational success.

Target Audience: Supervisors, Managers, Leaders

Length: 2 days

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Personal & Team Accountability, Delegation, Prioritization, Communication, Relationship Building, Problem Solving, Decision Making

Navigating Difficult Conversations* Learn to approach challenging conversations with confidence and clarity. This course provides tools to address sensitive issues, manage emotions, and achieve productive outcomes. Build trust and strengthen relationships through effective communication strategies.

Target Audience: Individual Contributor, Team Lead

Length: 2 hours

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Emotional Intelligence, Active Listening, Conflict Resolution, Assertive Communication

Inclusive Hiring and Advancement* Develop strategies to create a diverse and inclusive workforce. This course equips participants with tools to eliminate bias, improve hiring decisions, and support equitable advancement. Foster a culture where all employees thrive and contribute to organizational success.

Target Audience: HR professionals, managers, and supervisors responsible for hiring, developing talent, and fostering an inclusive workplace culture.

Length: 2 hours

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning

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Competencies: Bias Awareness, Equitable Decision-Making, Diversity Recruitment, Culture Building

Leadership Courses Project Managment for the Unofficial Project Manager* Gain practical tools to manage projects effectively, even without a formal title. This course equips participants with essential skills to plan, prioritize, and execute projects while fostering collaboration and accountability. Deliver results with confidence and clarity.

Target Audience: Individual contributors, team leads, and managers managing projects without formal project management roles.

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Task Prioritization, Stakeholder Engagement, Risk Managment, Execution Excellence

Unconscious Bias: Understanding Bias to Unleash Potential* Learn to recognize and address unconscious bias to create a more inclusive workplace. This course provides practical strategies to mitigate bias, enhance decision-making, and unlock the full potential of individuals and teams. Foster a culture of equity and belonging.

Target Audience: Individual Contributor, Team Lead

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Bias Awareness, Perspective Taking, Inclusive Behavior, Cultural Sensitivity

Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Ignite Everyone’s Intelligence* Discover how to amplify team performance by becoming a multiplier leader. This course teaches participants to inspire others to contribute their best thinking, foster innovation, and unlock the collective intelligence of their teams. Lead in a way that drives engagement and growth.

Target Audience: Individual Contributor, Team Lead

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Talent Amplification, Collaborative Leadership, Empowerment Strategies, Growth Mindset

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Leadership Courses Change: How to Turn Uncertainty Into Opportunity (for Leaders)* Learn to navigate change with confidence and turn uncertainty into growth opportunities. This course equips leaders with tools to inspire resilience, guide teams through transitions, and harness change as a catalyst for success. Lead with clarity and adaptability in dynamic environments.

Target Audience: Supervisor, Manager, Senior Leader

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Change Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, Resilience Building, Strategic Agility

Presentation Advantage* Master the art of creating and delivering impactful presentations. This course equips participants with tools to craft compelling messages, engage audiences, and inspire action.

Learn to build confidence and deliver presentations that drive results and leave a lasting impression.

Target Audience: Individual Contributor, Team Lead

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Message Development, Visual Design, Audience Connection, Delivery Excellence

Meeting Advantage* Transform meetings into productive and engaging experiences that drive results. This course provides tools to plan, execute, and lead meetings with purpose and clarity. Learn to eliminate wasted time, foster collaboration, and achieve actionable outcomes.

Target Audience: Individual Contributor, Team Lead

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Meeting Planning, Facilitation, Engagement Strategies

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Skills Development Courses A. O. Smith Key Anchors This course focuses on fostering respect, collaboration, and trust, equipping participants with practical strategies to enhance personal and professional interactions. Equally impactful as a stand-alone course or a leadership training refresher, this class strengthens foundational relationship skills essential for success.

Target Audience: Supervisor, Manager

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) Competencies: Communication, Collaboration, Trust Building, Emotional Intelligence

Career Conversations for Individual Contributors & Team Leads Learn how to engage in meaningful career conversations that maximize your potential and support your growth. This course helps you identify your strengths, set career aspirations, and collaborate with your supervisor/manager to achieve your goals.

Target Audience: Individual Contributors, Team Leads

Length: 1 hour

Delivery Methods: Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Self Awareness, Goal Setting, Collaboration, Personal Accountability

Career Conversations for Supervisors & Managers Developing talent is a key responsibility for leaders. This course equips supervisors and managers with tools to guide meaningful career conversations, helping employees identify strengths, set aspirations, and achieve their goals while building new skills for long-term growth.

Target Audience: Supervisor, Manager Length: 1 hour Delivery Methods: Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT), e-Learning Competencies: Developing Talent, Career Coaching, Active Listening, Goal Alignment

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Skills Development Courses Change Management Simulation: Right Turns Experience change management through an engaging board game simulation. This course uses the "Right Turns" approach to help participants navigate transitions, solve challenges, and drive positive outcomes in a dynamic environment. Build resilience and lead change effectively.

Target Audience: All

Length: 3 hours

Delivery Methods: In Person Instructor Led Training (ILT) Competencies: Adaptability, Problem-Solving, Resilience, Collaboration

New Leader Assimilation This is a must-have for new leaders onboarding with A.O. Smith or transitioning into a leadership role. Designed for the first 60-90 days, this workshop equips leaders with tools to build strong relationships, understand organizational culture, and set clear expectations. Leaders collaborate with their teams to establish trust, align on priorities, and create a foundation for long-term success.

Target Audience: Manager, Director, Senior Leader

Length: 4 hours

Delivery Methods: In Person Instructor Led Training (ILT) Competencies: Building Trust, Relationship Building, Cultural Awareness, Goal Alignment

Now Discover Your Strengths Unlock your potential by identifying and leveraging your unique talents. This course helps participants understand their strengths, align them with professional goals, and apply them to achieve greater success and fulfillment in their roles.

Target Audience: All

Length: 2 hours

Delivery Methods: In Person Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) Competencies: Self Awareness, Strengths Alignment, Strengths Application, Goal Alignment

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Skills Development Courses Performance Management: Goal Setting & Development Planning Master the art of setting SMART goals and creating actionable development plans. This course provides strategies to align goals with business objectives while fostering employee growth and accountability.

Target Audience: All

Length: 1.5 hours

Delivery Methods: Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) Competencies: Goal Setting, Development Planning, Coaching/Feedback, Employee Engagement

Performance Management: Preparing and Conducting A Performance Review Learn to conduct impactful performance reviews that inspire trust and drive improvement.

This course covers preparation, fostering openness, assigning fair ratings, and avoiding pitfalls for meaningful discussions.

Target Audience: Supervisors, Managers

Length: 1 hour

Delivery Methods: Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) Competencies: Feedback, Fair/Objective Evaluation, Communication, Employee Engagement

Performance Management: Conducting a Mid-Year Review This course helps supervisors and managers understand the importance of mid-year reviews by assessing goals, providing feedback, addressing barriers, and leveraging the 70/20/10 model to drive development success.

Target Audience: Supervisors, Managers

Length: 1 hour

Delivery Methods: Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) Competencies: Goal Assessment, Feedback, Development Planning, Employee Engagement

Performance Management: End of Year Review This course guides conducting meaningful year-end performance reviews by confirming focus areas, delivering feedback, summarizing achievements, evaluating performance, and leading formal discussions on ratings, accomplishments, and growth opportunities.

Target Audience: All

Length: 2 hours

Delivery Methods: Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) Competencies: Feedback, Performance Rating, Formal Discussions, Employee Engagement

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Skills Development Courses Project Management Fundamentals Learn the basics of project management using the PMI process and A.O. Smith’s traditional predictive methodology. This course covers the five phases of project management, factors impacting success, and tools to apply concepts effectively. Participants receive a guide for ongoing reference.

Target Audience: All

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: In Person Instructor Led Training (ILT) Competencies: Leadership, Communication, Planning, Flexibility, Stakeholder Engagement

Staying Out of Legal Hot Water Equip supervisors and managers with the knowledge of key laws and legal issues critical to daily employee interactions. This course helps participants understand their responsibilities, reduce risks, and ensure compliance while fostering a fair and respectful workplace.

Target Audience: Supervisors, Managers

Length: 4 hours

Delivery Methods: In Person Instructor Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) Competencies: Legal Awareness, Compliance Management, Fair Decision Making, Risk Mitigation

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Skills Development Courses What’s My Leadership Style Discover your unique leadership style and learn how it impacts team performance and organizational success. This course helps participants identify their leadership strengths, adapt to diverse situations, and enhance their influence. Develop strategies to lead authentically and inspire others effectively.

Target Audience: All

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: In Person Instructor Led Training (ILT) Competencies: Self Awareness, Situational Adaptability, Influence/Inspiration, Effective Communication

What’s My Communication Style Uncover your communication style and learn how it shapes interactions with others. This course helps participants identify strengths, adapt to different communication needs, and build stronger relationships. Enhance your ability to connect, collaborate, and communicate effectively in any situation.

Target Audience: All

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: In Person Instructor Led Training (ILT) Competencies: Self Awareness, Situational Adaptability, Relationship Building, Effective Messaging

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Skills Development Courses Business Acumen 101 Workshop* Develop and strengthen your business acumen and decision-making skills. This interactive course helps participants understand how A.O. Smith generates revenue, profit, and shareholder value, and how their actions impact key drivers of success.

Target Audience: All

Length: 2 hours

Delivery Methods: Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) Competencies: Financial Literacy, Decision-Making, Risk Awareness, Resource Managment, Collaboration

Apples & Oranges: Business Simulation Workshop* Participate in an engaging workshop and board game simulation to understand A.O. Smith’s financial operations. Teams manage competing companies, complete financial statements, and link daily decisions to profits, balance sheets, and cash flow. Gain insights to improve profitability and drive success.

Target Audience: All

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT) Competencies: Business Acumen, Financial Literacy, Cash Flow Management, Decision Making, Collaboration

Decision Base: Business Simulation Workshop* Compete in a dynamic business simulation where teams lead a company, manage resources, and battle for market leadership. Oversee functions like finance, marketing, and production while making strategic decisions to improve profitability and gain a competitive edge.

Target Audience: All

Length: 3 days

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT) Competencies: Financial Acumen, Decision-Making, Strategic Planning, Operational Execution, Cross Functional Collaboration

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Skills Development Courses

Myers-Brigg Enhancing Emotional Intelligence (EQ) Deliver impactful emotional intelligence training using this ready-to-deploy workshop.

Designed for individuals familiar with the MBTI®, it helps participants understand emotional intelligence, its impact on performance, and strategies to enhance their own intrapersonal and interpersonal skills.

Target Audience: All

Length: 3.5 hours

Delivery Methods: Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) Competencies: Self Awareness, Interpersonal Skills, Emotional Intelligence, Adaptability, Empathy

MBTI Essentials* Discover the essentials of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® to understand personality preferences and improve communication. This course helps participants enhance selfawareness, build stronger relationships, and work more effectively with others.

Target Audience: All

Length: 2 hours

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT) Competencies: Self-Awareness, Interpersonal Communcation, Relationship Building, Collaboration

Inclusive Leadership* Develop inclusive leadership skills by leveraging diversity of thought. This course helps leaders recognize bias, foster collaboration, and create a culture where diverse perspectives drive better decisions and team success.

Target Audience: Supervisor, Manager

Length: 1 day

Delivery Methods: Instructor Led Training (ILT) Competencies: Humility, Empathy, Leveraging Differences, Self-Awareness, Curiosity

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Franklin Covey All Access Pass Continuous Learning At A. O. Smith, we partner with the Franklin Covey self-paced, e-learning All Access Pass learning platform to provide employees with world-class leadership development programs and tools to support personal and professional effectiveness.

Overview Franklin Covey Impact All Access Pass is Franklin Covey’s learning platform. It offers a comprehensive suite of leadership content, workshops, and resources designed to help you build essential leadership and effectiveness skills.

Key Highlights Signature Leadership Content: Access programs such as 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Leading at the Speed of Trust, and 4 Essential Roles of Leadership.

Personalized Learning Paths: Tailored development journeys to enhance leadership capabilities and personal effectiveness.

Self-Paced Learning: Flexible, self-paced programs to fit busy schedules.

Interactive Tools and Assessments: Apply learning with practical tools and benchmark progress.

Mobile Access: Learn anytime, anywhere, on any device.

Get Started Click the more info icon to access Franklin Covey Impact Platform and start learning today! Please use your A.O. Smith email address. For questions, contact the Talent Development team.

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Gemba Academy: Continuous Improvement At A. O. Smith, we partner with Gemba Academy to provide employees with highquality Lean and Six Sigma training designed to support continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Overview Gemba Academy offers online video courses and resources tailored to help employees learn and apply Lean and Six Sigma principles to improve processes and drive organizational success.

Key Highlights Extensive Course Library: Practical courses covering Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Real-World Examples: Case studies and practical applications to reinforce learning.

Microlearning Modules: Quick, focused lessons for on-the-go learning and immediate impact.

Certification Preparation: Support for earning Lean and Six Sigma certifications.

Mobile Access: Learn anytime, anywhere, on any device.

Get Started Click the more info icon to access Gemba Academy and start learning today! For questions, contact John Whitfield at: john.whitfield@aosmith.com

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HRDQ: Building Essential Soft Skills At A. O. Smith, we partner with HRDQ to provide employees with experiential learning resources designed to enhance critical soft skills that drive personal and professional success.

Overview Soft skills are essential for navigating today’s dynamic work environment. HRDQ focuses on developing the interpersonal and emotional intelligence skills that employees need to communicate effectively, lead confidently, and work collaboratively.

Why Soft Skills Matter In today’s fast-paced, digital world, technical skills are not enough. Research shows that soft skills—such as emotional intelligence, adaptability, and empathy—are among the top predictors of success in the workplace. HRDQ's programs are designed to: Enhance Communication: Help employees improve how they express ideas, listen actively, and provide feedback.

Strengthen Leadership: Equip managers with the skills needed to inspire, motivate, and build trust within their teams.

Improve Collaboration: Foster better teamwork by teaching conflict resolution, active listening, and empathy.

Boost Emotional Intelligence: Develop self-awareness, selfregulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills to build stronger relationships.

Get Started Contact Michele Blake at mlblake@aosmith.com for more information!

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Skillsoft: Empowering Growth At A. O. Smith, we partner with Skillsoft to provide employees with access to a comprehensive library of learning resources designed to support professional growth and career advancement.

Overview Skillsoft offers online courses, videos, books, and tools tailored to help employees build critical skills, stay current with industry trends, and excel in their roles.

Key Highlights Extensive Course Library: Leadership, communication, project management, technology, and compliance.

Personalized Learning Paths: AI-powered recommendations for tailored development.

Microlearning Modules: Quick, focused lessons for on-the-go learning.

Business Certification Preparation: Prepare for certifications such as PMP®, Six Sigma, AWS, CISSP, and more.

Skills Benchmark Assessments: Identify current skill levels and close gaps effectively.

Mobile Access: Learn anytime, anywhere, on any device.

Get Started Click the more info icon to access Skillsoft and start learning today! For questions, contact the Talent Development team.

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Get Abstract: Insights in Action At A. O. Smith, we partner with Get Abstract to provide employees with access to a comprehensive library of book summaries and insights designed to support professional growth and career advancement.

Overview Get Abstract offers concise summaries of books and articles tailored to help you stay informed, improve critical skills, and gain valuable insights quickly and effectively.

Key Highlights Extensive Book Summary Library: Access to thousands of summaries covering leadership, innovation, productivity, and more.

Personalized Recommendations: AI-powered suggestions based on individual learning preferences and career goals.

Actionable Insights: Key takeaways and actionable advice from leading experts in various fields.

Downloadable Access: Download book summaries to read or listen anytime, anywhere.

Mobile Access: Learn anytime, anywhere, on any device.

Get Started Click the more info icon to access Get Abstract and start learning today! For questions, contact the Talent Development team.

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Tooling U: Empowering The Workforce Tooling U is a trusted leader in workforce training and development, specializing in building the skills of employees in manufacturing and technical industries.

Overview Tooling U offers flexible, industry-driven training solutions to help organizations and individuals stay competitive in today’s dynamic marketplace.

Key Highlights

Key Highlights Online Learning Library: Access multiple courses covering topics such as manufacturing, quality, safety and technical skills development. interactive and Engaging Content: Multimedia rich courses with videos, quizzes and assessments to ensure effective learning.

Mobile and On-Demand Access: Learn anytime, anywhere with the mobile-friendly learning platforms and 24/7 access to content.

Business Certification Preparation: Prepare for certifications such as PMP®, Six Sigma, AWS, CISSP, and more.

Certification & Credentials: Prepare for certifications like Lean Six Sigma, CNC Programming, Mobile Access: Learn anytime, anywhere, on any device.

Get Started Visit the Tooling U catalog to learn more.

Contact John Whitfield, Technical Training Lead, at john.whitfield@aosmith.com for questions or support.

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Certification Preparation: Empowering Your Growth Our learning vendors offer certification preparation programs to help A. O. Smith employees earn industry-recognized credentials. These certifications enhance skills, boost career prospects, and keep you competitive in today’s evolving workplace.

Key Highlights

🔑 Comprehensive Learning Paths: Access in-depth courses tailored to prepare you for top industry certifications across various disciplines.

🔑 Project Management Certifications: Prepare for globally recognized

certifications like PMP®, CAPM®, and more from the Project Management Institute (PMI).

🔑 IT and Security Certifications: Courses to prepare for certifications in AWS, CISSP, Cisco, Red Hat, CompTIA (A+, Network+, Security+).

🔑 Process Improvement Certifications: Prepare for Six Sigma Yellow,

Green, and Black Belt certifications to enhance process improvement skills.

🔑 Business and Digital Certifications: Access preparation courses for Digital Marketing Institute, IIBA® (International Institute of Business Analysis), and Microsoft Office Specialist certifications.

🔑 Flexible Learning Options: Mobile and on-demand access to learning

platforms ensures you can prepare for certifications anytime, anywhere.

Get Started Explore certification preparation courses by visiting: Tooling U: Tooling U Skillsoft Percipio : Skillsoft Percipio

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FAQs HOW DO I SELECT THE RIGHT COURSES FOR MY CAREER GOALS? Review the Skills Matrix and Course Categories to identify courses that align with your role and development needs.

ARE COURSES AVAILABLE FOR ALL LEVELS OF EMPLOYEES? Yes, we offer courses for various roles, from individual contributors to senior leaders.

CAN I TAKE COURSES OUTSIDE MY CURRENT ROLE’S CATEGORY? Absolutely! You're encouraged to explore courses that interest you and support your long-term career goals.

IS THERE A DEADLINE TO COMPLETE COURSES? While many courses are flexible, some may have specific timelines. Check the course details for any deadlines.

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FAQs In case you had concerns, here are some frequently asked questions and answers to clear things up.

WILL I RECEIVE A CERTIFICATE UPON COMPLETING A COURSE? Certain courses offer certificates or recognition, which will be noted in the course descriptions.

WHO CAN I CONTACT IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS? Reach out to the Talent Development team talentdevelopment@aosmith.com for additional support with course selection or enrollment.

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Key Messages Growth is Essential A. O. Smith prioritizes employee development to help you thrive in your role and advance your career.

Clear Role Paths Understanding your role level helps you map a clear path forward.

Skills vs. Competencies Skills are what you do; competencies are how you do it. Both are key to success.

Skills Matrix Use this tool to identify skills and competencies needed for your role.

Development Resources Explore courses to support your growth.

Your Development Plan Create a Personal Development Plan to guide your progress and achieve your goals.

Continuous Support Growth is a journey. Together, let’s build a culture of learning and success.

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Contact Information Talent Development Team

Mary Sue Handel Global Talent Managment Director Email: mhandel@aosmith.com

Michele Blake Talent Development Manager Email: mlblake@aosmith.com

Rudy Ziegler Talent Development Specialist Email: rudy.ziegler@aosmith.com

John Whitfield Technical Training Lead Email: jwhitfield@aosmith.com

Paula O’Brien Instructional Designer Email: paula.obrien@aosmith.com

Jenny Schnell Talent Development Specialist Email: jenny.schnell@aosmith.com

Kayla Pochert Talent Management Specialist Email: kayla.pochert@aosmith.com

Colin Davis HR Generalist Email: colin.davis@aosmith.com

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Growing Our People

Innovating for Tomorrow 50