Chattanooga State Technical Community College and JER Online, a nationally recognized provider of online education, have established a collaboration to promote and distribute an innovative, internet-based resource known as Build Your Own BIZ.  With the increased demand for Web-based instruction, this strategic alliance aligns the global marketing strength of JER Online with the quality educational programs developed by Chattanooga State.

Created by seasoned, successful business leaders, Build Your Own BIZ began as a special outreach initiative of Chattanooga State, specifically designed to support the needs of the small business owner.  As the project evolved, Build Your Own BIZ developed into an online business consultant, featuring a series of comprehensive courses that mentor and encourage entrepreneurs.

Richard Burke, director for continuing education at Chattanooga State, underscores the advantage of partnering with JER Online.  “JER Online affords Chattanooga State access to an international market through its sophisticated network of associates and its highly-visible online presence,” says Mr. Burke.  “Chattanooga State strives to connect with cutting edge, dynamic companies to create mutually beneficial opportunities for students, our faculty, and communities outside our region.  We are pleased that JER Online recognized the significance of Build Your Own BIZ and will be the conduit through which this program reaches a worldwide audience.

Build Your Own BIZ is an all-inclusive internet advisor, highlighting the most relevant, current business management information.  As noted by Dr. John Reid, president of JER Online, “We were attracted to Build Your Own BIZ because we understand the importance of offering this type of product to business owners seeking online support and training.  Furthermore, the programs offered by JER Online must provide pertinent, actionable information in a format that is uncomplicated and user-friendly.  The professional and practical approach through which Build Your Own BIZ organizes and presents its courses meets this standard.”

Build Your Own BIZ is comprehensive and logical.  The program features tutorials that include business templates; guidance about sales and marketing; information on creating financially stable environment; details about operations management; and facts about existing human resources practices.

As the request for internet resources, that provide simple access to instruction, coaching, and support, continues to grow, strategic partnerships like JER Online and Chattanooga State become essential.  "Responding to the pressures of professional and personal obligations is challenging at best,” said Dr. Reid.  "The convenience of working from a personal computer and at a self-directed pace is very appealing.  Without question, online education is the way of the future.”

Mr. Burke concurs that the overwhelming popularity of Web-based education will persist.  He also stresses the importance of the agreement between Chattanooga State and JER Online.  “This arrangement allows Chattanooga State the flexibility to sustain its tradition of developing valuable, worthwhile educational programs and deepens the prominent reputation of JER Online for indentifying substantial, meaningful online learning opportunities for its customers.  It is a win-win partnership."

For more information about the Build Your Own BIZ business management series, contact representatives at JER Online by calling toll free at 1.866.537.5376 or by email at educontact@jeronline.com.  Additional information is available at the JER Online Web site at www.jeronline.com.

For more information about Chattanooga State and its educational programs, call the Chattanooga State information hotline at 423.697.4404 or toll free at 1.866.547.3733.  Information is also available on the college’s Web site at www.chattanoogastate.edu.

Chattanooga State is a comprehensive, regionally accredited community college, operated under the policies and guidelines of the Tennessee Board of Regents College System.  Founded in 1965 and serving a six-county area in Southeast Tennessee, Chattanooga State offers a wide array of programs and services.