Strategi Pemberdayaan UMKM Arang Sejahtera dalam Meningkatkan Kompetensi Pekerja dI Desa Banjarsengon Kabupaten Jember

Abstract

This study aims to describe the empowerment strategies implemented by Arang Sejahtera MSME in improving worker competence. This study employed a descriptive research design with a qualitative approach. The research location was determined using the purposive area technique, while informants were selected through purposive sampling. The informants consisted of one key informant, namely the MSME owner, and two supporting informants, namely workers. Data were collected through observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation. Data analysis involved data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. Data validity was established through prolonged engagement, persistent observation, and source and technique triangulation.The findings indicate that the empowerment strategy was implemented through three stages: awareness-raising, capacity building, and empowerment. Awareness-raising was carried out by providing and understanding of duties and responsibilities, instilling honesty and loyalty, strengthening teamwork and communication, and providing education and comparative study opportunities. Capacity building was implemented through training, workshops, mentoring for new workers, work habituation, production target setting, and work monitoring. Empowerment was realized by providing workers with trust and opportunities to participate in production, use raw materials effectively and efficiently, and express their opinions and propose solutions. These strategies supported the development of worker competence. The knowledge aspect was reflected in workers’ understanding of production processes, raw material mannagement, work planning, and product quality assessment. The skills aspect was determined through practical activities involving raw material sorting, production, and packaging according to specified sizes. The attitude aspect was reflected in discipline, accuracy, professionalism, responsibility, motivation, teamwork, and the economical use of materials and facilities. Based on the findings, the three stages of empowerment have contributed to improvements in worker competence, particularly in technical skills, work attitudes, and participation in production. However, continuous training and mentoring, the development of new ideas and innovations, and improvements in facilities and infrastructure are still needed. The MSME owner also plans to expand the production, packaging, and raw material storage areas. This need was identified through direct observation, which revealed that the existing production area wasinsufficient,resulting in limited space for workers to move freely.