This course is designed for business owners who supervise employees or have employees who supervise other employees. Through this program, participants will help owners and supervisory employees become better managers. Participants will be exposed to management styles, communication styles, social styles, situational awareness, time management, hiring, training, and the progressive discipline process to help employees improve and reduce turnover. This class exposes participants to what constitutes quality customer service and how to implement a strong customer service program.
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
As the Area Director in Augusta, Rick brings over 33 years of business experience to the UGA SBDC. Prior to joining the SBDC, Rick spent more than 20 years as a Sonic Drive-In franchisee, developing the Augusta, GA market to 13 stores and over 500 employees. Rick brings extensive knowledge in franchise development along with significant experience in marketing, advertising, human resources and personnel management needed to grow from a one store operation to a mid-size business. With an MBA and a BBA alongside his background, Rick is a go-to person for any consultant or client in the SBDC.
Joe McCord is a business consultant at the UGA SBDC in Dekalb with over 30 years of experience in executive positions in accounting, operations, corporate development and franchising. He served in a consulting capacity with emerging and established franchised brands in operations, development, finance, strategic planning, process improvement, relationship management, contract negotiations and site analysis. He also served as the managing partner for a 7-location franchise of a major quick-service restaurant concept. Joe has a BBA from the University of Georgia, an MBA from Georgia State University and is a veteran of the United States Air Force.
This program is funded through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration and is supported by federal taxpayer funds. By registering, you certify that you are legally authorized to receive services funded by U.S. taxpayer dollars, in accordance with applicable federal law and regulations.
All programs are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
The UGA SBDC is funded through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
All SBDC services are provided in a nondiscriminatory way to all legal residents and citizens in the United States. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
The UGA SBDC is an accredited member of America’s SBDC.
The University of Georgia
Small Business Development Center
382 East Broad Street
Athens, GA 30602-5412
P: (706) 542-2762
