Critical Thinking Skills for Everyday Job Challenges (Propel 1)

About this event

Propel 1 Leadership Series: This seminar is included in the full Propel 1 program. View the full program .

This seminar strengthens critical and strategic thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills so participants can navigate complex challenges with greater clarity and confidence. Participants will learn to differentiate and apply critical thinking, strategic thinking, and structured decision-making in real business situations.

Through activities and tools such as Root Cause Analysis, brainstorming, risk analysis, the Socratic method, Six Thinking Hats, and the 5 Whys, participants will practice approaching issues from multiple perspectives. The seminar also explores how biases, assumptions, anecdotal evidence, and decision fatigue can influence decisions.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this seminar, participants will be able to:

• Think more critically and strategically in complex business situations.

• Distinguish among critical thinking, strategic thinking, and decision-making and apply each appropriately.

• Use structured tools including Root Cause Analysis, brainstorming, risk analysis, the Socratic method, Six Thinking Hats, and the 5 Whys to analyze and solve problems.

• Recognize and reduce the impact of biases, assumptions, anecdotal evidence, and decision fatigue.

• Build habits and an action plan that support creativity, psychological safety, and stronger team problem-solving.

Who Should Attend

Emerging leaders and individuals interested in professional and personal development.

Tuition

No charge for employees of MCAKC Member Contractors signatory to Local 8 & 533.

$100 for non-members signatory to Local 8 & 533.

$150 for Associate Members.

CEUs: 0.4

Instructor

Eric Herdman has trained employees in a broad range of corporate environments for more than 20 years. From multi-billion-dollar pharmaceutical companies to major financial institutions and the world’s largest franchise fitness center, he draws on experience in sales, retail, health, and fitness to help organizations improve performance.

Eric has facilitated courses focused on strategic business practices, leadership and management, productivity, and motivation. He has developed a proven system that helps participants prioritize work, schedule effectively, delegate, manage information flow, and develop negation skills.

As a record-setting ultra-runner, Eric also brings his passion for perseverance and endurance to his work with participants.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations for MCAKC events and programs must be received at least 2 business days prior to the event by email at learn@mcakc.org or by phone at 913-948-9200 . Cancellations received after this time will be assessed a $100 cancellation fee .

Registrants who do not cancel and do not attend (“No Shows”) will be assessed:

$100 — Events 4 hours or less

$150 — Events over 4 hours

From Naylor Organization