Dr. Mike Biderman, Salem Carpets Professor of Psychology, recently
received $1,740 from ConAgra Foods Inc. to support a student research
project that will investigate working conditions and employee attitudes
and behavior at ConAgra's local Cook Plant.

The project, entitled "Investigation of Absenteeism and Turnover at
ConAgra Cook Plant," will examine the existing attendance control
policies. Other procedures to be analyzed by the study include:  hiring
processes and policies, wage rates' effect on absenteeism and turnover,
application of the attendance policy, and need for benefits like
childcare.  The research will also investigate whether part-time workers,
such as UTC students, could be utilized at the plant.

Dr. Biderman will supervise a UTC Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Master's
student who will conduct this examination, which also fulfills the I/O MS
program's practicum course requirement. The ConAgra funding will be used to
compensate this student for the investigation.

Congratulations to Dr. Biderman! In addressing the needs and situations
of the local workforce and providing real-life learning opportunities
for UTC students, you create an effective environment for inquiry and
insight.