Learning Opportunities and
Leadership Development
Big Y University
As a company, Big Y is dedicated to the education and development of all employees. We strive to provide state of the art learning services for all employees in an easily-accessible, user-friendly way. The mission of the Learning Services department is to provide learning opportunities for all employees to become better at what they do. We are a learner-driven organization that creates, maintains, and delivers a wide variety of top-notch training materials, programs and methods with an emphasis on the ever-changing demands of the food industry, Big Y and the needs of our management.
Many of these learning opportunities are delivered and validated through quizzes on Big Y's learning management system, called the "Big Y Learning Hub" with Learning Centers in every location. Each and every employee has a learning plan based on his or her job function or individual development needs. Big Y uses a blended approach of computer based and hands on training to prepare employees for their job duties.
Big Y University (BYU) delivers numerous opportunities for employees to learn through alternative methods that may include: workshops, computer based training, recipe-style technical manuals and cards, traditional training manuals, outside seminars and formal training, home study, Internet, videos, audio tapes, and literature. The following programs fall under the BYU umbrella:
Technical Training Program
Training manuals for clerk positions in the stores have been created and maintained by respective groups of department managers, the Sales office, and the Learning Services area of the Employee Services department. New technology has allowed us to advance to Computer Based Training (CBT) for some areas. Also, a recipe type on-the-job training (OJT) has been developed for several perishable departments for training purposes as well as reference material. Additionally, we offer PC application training as needed for job functions.
Department Manager Training Program
This program is designed to develop the management skills of newly promoted department managers and/or high potential candidates. Each session has been created with the practical needs of new and experienced managers in mind. The emphasis is on workable ideas, participative learning, and material tailored to the realities of management of Big Y. Classes move at a rapid and challenging pace, as do your jobs. Instructors explain key management principles for today's managers; participants discuss and practice specific skills that put the principles into action.
World Class Leadership Development Program
(Store Manager Trainee selection and development)
This program utilizes a comprehensive assessment and selection process to choose individuals who apply for the position of Store Manager Trainee. Combined with a customized learning plan, employees experience an extensive leadership development program that offers valuable opportunities for professional and personal growth.
Adult Educational Programs
Upon successful completion, Big Y will pay 50% of the time spent in the classroom to employees who participate in an Adult Basic Education (ABE) program, a GED high school equivalency test, Literacy programs, or English as a Second Language (ESL).
Media Library
The Media Library is a resourceful way for employees to both further their education and develop skills. The Course Catalog features books, audio and video tapes that touch on such topics as: Coaching, Communication, Leadership and Career Development and Time Management. It even contains materials on personal interests and wellness. The Course Catalog can be easily accessed through the News Page on the Learning HUB.
See What Our Employees Have To Say. Big Y uses a blended approach of computer based and hands on training to prepare employees for their job duties.
Group Problem Solving teams
An intense training program which prepares individuals to lead and facilitate a Group Problem Solving team (GPS). Group Problem Solving teams allow employees to meet voluntarily on company time for the purpose of directly influencing the work operation 
based on their hands-on job experience. This process taps the unique perspective and knowledge of employees and moves problem-solving to those closest to the concern.
Group Problem Solving teams are an effective and proven means for employees to work as a team to explore problems and offer suggestions to top management regarding their job process. In doing this, employees assume greater responsibility for their work environment, their own growth, the quality of their work, and for improving the productivity and effectiveness of their jobs.
Through GPS, the potential to save dollars, improve customer service, and increase organizational effectiveness is limitless!
Financial Support For Formal Education
Because our success is founded on the high caliber of our employees, we invest significantly in the training and development of every individual on our team. Many employees have reached educational levels they never thought possible, all thanks to our ongoing commitment to continuing education and personal development.
Tuition Assistance
Big Y offers tuition assistance to eligible part-time and full time employees with at least one year of continuous service. This plan provides eligible employees increased job skills, knowledge and the opportunity for personal advancement within Big Y; it can also contribute toward achievement of mutual goals and advancement. Whether you are starting school, going back to school, or in college, this program can help you achieve your educational goals and enhance your job skills.
Big Y Scholarships
In tribute to both its employees and its customers, Big Y offers an annual scholarship program recognizing academic merit and achievement. These scholarships are awarded to the most academically outstanding students in the Big Y market area. To be eligible, a student's permanent residence must be in Western or Central Massachusetts and Norfolk County Massachusetts or the state of Connecticut. Big Y scholarships are open to employees and their dependents, and customers and their dependents. The application deadline is February 1st of each year. For more information about the program, visit the Big Y Scholarships page of our site.
In addition, since 1981 Big Y has awarded more than 2,000 scholarships worth over than $1.5 Million to its employees and their dependents, as well as to customers and their dependents through several annual scholarship programs.
Note: Benefit eligibility is subject to company requirements