Toyota Instructors Opt for Strict Approach Toward Millennial Learners
The Toyota Technical Skills Academy, a prestigious training ground for aspiring technicians, has been a cornerstone of Toyota's commitment to quality and excellence for over 85 years. Situated within Toyota's manufacturing environment, the academy offers an intensive programme that nurtures professionals who prioritise customer satisfaction and quality over personal interests [1].
At the helm of the academy is Director Hisashi Yamashita, a proud graduate of the school who boasts a successful career as a sheet metal technician, having won gold at international WorldSkills competitions [2]. Current employees of Toyota serve as instructors and advisors, bringing their wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom. These instructors are usually selected from among Toyota's technicians for a three-year rotation, ensuring they have intimate knowledge of the genba where trainees will work [3].
The academy's education approach is rigorous, rooted in the belief in human development. It embodies Toyota's philosophy that "monozukuri is about developing people," a belief espoused by Kiichiro Toyoda, the company's second president [4]. The academy aims to nurture professionals who not only possess technical expertise but also understand the importance of teamwork in preventing dangers and accidents in the car-building industry [1].
While the academy prides itself on its high standards, it has faced a minor controversy in the past. A former instructor once had a reputation for bending the truth [5]. However, Toyota remains committed to the academy, viewing it as a crucial investment in the development of exceptional technical talent.
Graduates of the Toyota Technical Skills Academy often represent Toyota in elite competitions such as WorldSkills, demonstrating superior craftsmanship in automotive skills like sheet metal work [1]. The academy is one of only four facilities where students can obtain a high school diploma upon graduation [6]. This investment in technician training supports a clear career path, leadership development, and a culture of ongoing mentorship, all of which help retain skilled employees and ensure top-level service across Toyota’s operations [3][2].
In conclusion, the Toyota Technical Skills Academy is a testament to Toyota's commitment to quality and excellence. By providing trainees with practical experience and mastery akin to elite athletes honing their craft daily, the academy ensures that Toyota's reputation for customer satisfaction and vehicle reliability remains unmatched.
References: [1] Toyota Technical Skills Academy. (n.d.). Retrieved September 20, 2022, from https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/corporate/21197045.html [2] Toyota Technical Skills Academy. (2018, July 17). Retrieved September 20, 2022, from https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/corporate/21197045.html [3] Toyota Technical Skills Academy. (n.d.). Retrieved September 20, 2022, from https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/corporate/21197045.html [4] Toyota Technical Skills Academy. (n.d.). Retrieved September 20, 2022, from https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/corporate/21197045.html [5] Yamashita, H. (2021, April 1). Retrieved September 20, 2022, from https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXZO5ZF042000000C21A5000000/ [6] Toyota Technical Skills Academy. (n.d.). Retrieved September 20, 2022, from https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/corporate/21197045.html
- The Toyota Technical Skills Academy, rooted in the manufacturing industry, is a significant investment in the development of exceptional technical talent, demonstrating a commitment to both education-and-self-development and career-development.
- The academy's rigorous training program focuses not only on technical skills but also on personal growth, with an emphasis on teamwork, prevention of dangers, and accidents in the technical industry.
- By offering finance for students to attend the academy and providing opportunities for skills-training, Toyota ensures that graduates are equipped with the knowledge and practical experience needed to excel in the competitive automotive technology field.
- Although a minor controversy arose in the past, the academy remains a crucial cornerstone in Toyota's commitment to quality and excellence, fostering professionals who excel in both the technical expertise required for the automotive industry and the soft skills necessary for personal-growth and leadership development.
