Building the Future
In an industry as dynamic as construction equipment manufacturing, the importance of skilled operators cannot be overstated. We at Tata Hitachi are deeply committed to fostering skill development and increasing employability through its diverse training and skilling programmes. These initiatives span a wide range of individuals—from unemployed youth and non-certified operators to dealer staff and permanent employees.
Tata Hitachi’s skill development programme adopts a two-pronged approach aimed at addressing the varied needs of its workforce:
- Training for permanent employees and contractual staff: For its permanent and contractual employees, Tata Hitachi provides an extensive range of on-the-job and theoretical training across various competencies such as welding, fitting, machining, painting, and mechanical and electrical maintenance. This is facilitated through the company’s Skill Training Centre located within its plant, featuring world-class facilities and certified Hitachi trainers. Furthermore, employees can benefit from the Tata Hitachi JIIM Programme (Japan India Institute for Manufacturing), an initiative in alignment with the Government of India’s Skill India programme.
- Training for local communities and aspiring operators: Tata Hitachi extends its training efforts to the wider community with operator training centres in Dharwad and Kharagpur. These centres specialise in training for the operation of construction equipment like hydraulic excavators, backhoe loaders, and wheel loaders. These centres are equipped with state-of-the-art simulators that replicate real-life machine operating conditions, offering an immersive and hands-on experience for trainees. Upon completing their training, participants receive certification in partnership with the Government of India, enhancing their employability across the nation.
Comprehensive skill development approach
Tata Hitachi’s operator training programmes are comprehensive, addressing key aspects of machine operation, maintenance, and safety. The company’s training modules are developed in line with the Qualification Pack of the Infrastructure Equipment Skill Council, ensuring they meet industry standards. The training is structured into several modules, including:
- Training for aspiring operators: Targeted at unemployed youth, this programme focuses on equipping them with the skills needed to operate heavy machinery and pursue careers as certified operators.
- Training for existing operators: This programme focuses on upgrading the skills of operators who are already employed but need to enhance their expertise or knowledge of new equipment.
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): This programme assesses and certifies the skills of existing operators based on their prior experience and knowledge.
At the heart of these programmes is safety. Operators are trained to ensure the safe operation of machines, reduce wear and tear, and optimise productivity. With a focus on minimising risks and maximising output, Tata Hitachi ensures that operators are not just proficient but also responsible in their roles.
Future of operator training in the industry
The future of operator training at Tata Hitachi is focused on continuous evolution to meet industry demands. The company is working to expand its operator training network by partnering with its dealers, creating more centres to increase employment opportunities. After completing their training, participants are ideally deployed for on-the-job training at actual worksites, where they can apply their skills in real-world conditions.
Looking ahead, Tata Hitachi plans to incorporate advanced technologies like telematics and connected machines into its training programmes. By educating operators about the benefits of connected equipment and enhancing site efficiency through data-driven insights, the company aims to maximise machine productivity, making operators even more integral to the construction process.
Overcoming challenges in operator training
While Tata Hitachi’s training programmes are robust, the company faces several challenges in providing effective operator training:
1. Diverse skill levels: Trainees come from varied backgrounds, with some possessing prior experience and others being completely new to the field. Adapting the training to suit the individual skill levels can be complex.
2. Technological advancements: As construction equipment continues to evolve, keeping training materials and curricula up-to-date with the latest technological trends is crucial.
3. Language and communication barriers: In India’s multilingual landscape, communication can sometimes be a barrier to effective training, especially for those who speak different languages or dialects.
4. Job retention and employability: After completing their training, some operators seek job opportunities elsewhere, leading to talent attrition and reducing the availability of skilled operators in the industry.
To address these challenges, Tata Hitachi employs several strategies:
- Customised training modules: The company tailors its training content to accommodate the varying skill levels of trainees, ensuring that each participant receives the relevant knowledge and skills.
- Continuous curriculum updates: To stay ahead of technological changes, Tata Hitachi regularly updates its training programmes, incorporating the latest equipment and best practices.
- Investing in trainers: Tata Hitachi also focuses on the professional development of trainers, ensuring that they have the expertise and tools to deliver high-quality training.
- Multilingual Training Support: Recognising India’s linguistic diversity, the company offers training materials and sessions in multiple languages to bridge communication gaps and enhance learning.
- Job Placement and Career Growth: To prevent the loss of talent, Tata Hitachi offers job placement assistance and career growth opportunities within the company, incentivising trained operators to stay and contribute to the organisation’s success.
Empowering the workforce for a stronger future
Through its well-rounded training initiatives, Tata Hitachi is not only building a skilled workforce but also contributing to the growth of India’s construction sector. By addressing the evolving needs of operators, incorporating new technologies, and providing a supportive learning environment, Tata Hitachi is paving the way for the next generation of skilled construction equipment operators.
As the company continues to expand its training efforts, it remains dedicated to empowering individuals with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed—helping shape a brighter, more skilled future for the construction industry in India.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
The article is authored by Sandeep Singh, Managing Director, Tata Hitachi Construction Machinery
A-303, Navbharat
Estates,
Zakaria Bunder Road,
Sewri (West), Mumbai - 400 015,
Maharashtra, India
+91-22-24193000
Subscriber@ASAPPinfoGlobal.com