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.