Training and Certification Programs

Employee Training

Developing skills and maintaining certifications.

New Employee Orientation

First day/week training:

• Day 1: HR paperwork, benefits, policies
• Day 1: Safety orientation, facility tour
• Day 2: Department introduction
• Week 1: Job-specific training begins
• 30 Days: Initial review
• 90 Days: End of probation evaluation

Skills Matrix

Tracking competencies:

• Each job has required skills
• Proficiency levels:
  • Level 1: Basic awareness
  • Level 2: Can perform with guidance
  • Level 3: Fully proficient
  • Level 4: Can train others
• Skills matrix posted in department
• Updated as training completed
• Goal: Multi-skilled workforce

On-the-Job Training

Learning by doing:

1. Assigned to experienced trainer
2. Observe and ask questions
3. Practice with supervision
4. Demonstrate competency
5. Trainer signs off on skills matrix
6. Period transition to independence

Formal Training Courses

Safety Training:

• Forklift operation (3 days)
• Crane operation (2 days)
• LOTO procedures (4 hours)
• Confined space entry (4 hours)
• First aid/CPR (8 hours)
• Hazardous materials (4 hours)

Technical Training:

• CNC programming (40 hours)
• Blueprint reading (16 hours)
• GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning) (24 hours)
• Quality tools (SPC, FMEA) (16 hours)
• Welding certification (varies)
• Electrical troubleshooting (24 hours)

Soft Skills:

• Leadership development (varies)
• Problem solving (8 hours)
• Communication skills (8 hours)
• Team building (4 hours)
• Time management (4 hours)

Certification Programs

Industry-recognized credentials:

• Forklift: Required, 3-year renewal
• Crane: Required, annual renewal
• Welding: AWS certification available
• Quality: ASQ CQT, CQE
• Maintenance: Certified Maintenance Technician
• Safety: OSHA 10/30 hour

Company pays for required certifications.

Apprenticeship Programs

Multi-year development:

• Machinist: 4-year program
• Tool & Die Maker: 4-year program
• Electrician: 4-year program
• Combination: Classroom + OJT
• Wage progression: Increases with milestones
• Journeyman certificate: Upon completion

Tuition Reimbursement

Continuing education support:

• Up to $5,000 per year
• Degree or certificate programs
• Must be job-related
• Accredited institutions
• Maintain C average or better
• Reimburse after successful completion
• Application required before enrollment

Cross-Training

Building versatility:

• Learn adjacent operations
• Increases scheduling flexibility
• Opportunities for advancement
• May increase pay rate
• Scheduled during slower periods
• Voluntary participation encouraged

Training Schedule

Accessing training calendar:

1. Visit intranet training page
2. View upcoming classes
3. Register online
4. Get supervisor approval
5. Add to your calendar
6. Attend and complete evaluation

Training Records

Documentation maintained:

• All training tracked in HR system
• Certificates filed in personnel file
• Skills matrix updated
• Expiration dates monitored
• Automatic renewal reminders
• Available for audits

Performance Reviews

Development discussions:

• Annual review with supervisor
• Discuss goals and progress
• Identify training needs
• Create development plan
• Set objectives for coming year
• Tied to merit increases

Career Paths

Advancement opportunities:

• Operator → Lead → Supervisor
• Machinist → Tool & Die Maker
• Tech → Senior Tech → Engineer
• Inspector → Quality Engineer
• Job postings sent to all employees
• Internal candidates preferred

Mentorship Program

Pairing experienced with new:

• Voluntary participation
• Quarterly matching
• Structured meetings
• Career guidance
• Knowledge transfer
• Recognition for mentors

Training Resources

Self-directed learning:

• Online training library
• Technical manuals
• Video tutorials
• Industry publications
• Equipment manuals
• Available in training room