At Reata, we’re excited to announce a major milestone in our workforce development efforts.
Through our partnership with the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS), we’re implementing a new, standardized training approach designed to streamline training and facilitate a structured apprenticeship pathway. This joint effort between NIMS and Reata has been mutually beneficial:
- Our input has offered the NIMS team critical insight that will improve their Smart Training Solutions (STS) software.
- Reata now has a first-of-its-kind training program, a full apprenticeship program running exclusively on their platform.
Here’s a quick look at our workforce development solutions and how they contribute to our company’s and customers’ success:
Building the Next Generation of Skilled Workers
Reata’s apprenticeship program, authorized by the Department of Labor (DoL), offers a one- to two-year track designed for high school seniors and college students. Traditionally, we relied on training matrices similar to those used by most shops our size—cumbersome spreadsheets that were difficult to maintain and presented a challenge during ISO audits. Our new system brings transparency and flexibility, providing managers and team members with real-time visibility into training progress. Accessible on mobile devices, tablets, and computers, STS keeps training goals on track and integrates seamlessly with our ERP system.
Through an intentional blend of digital coursework, assessments, and hands-on training, apprentices can gain expertise in a range of fields, including:
Their STS pathway doesn’t only prepare them for their role at Reata; it awards them a certificate through NIMS that is recognized on an industry-wide basis. So whether they stay at Reata for the remainder of their career or take an opportunity elsewhere, they remain connected to the expertise they gained at our precision machine shop.
Progress Through Personalized Training
Reata’s STS platform offers a structured curriculum that combines theory and practice. Trainees begin with digital courses, watching videos, and completing quizzes that assess their knowledge. The foundational skills learned through these lessons are then reinforced through hands-on training with an on-site trainer.
The trainer, a more experienced team member, provides input on whether or not the trainee is ready to progress. In addition, a unique STS feature allows trainees to review their own progress. If a trainee completes a task but feels they need additional practice, they can choose not to reaffirm their competence in a specific skill until they’re confident to move on.
Once all training objectives are complete, an independent evaluator assesses the trainee’s competency. If they feel this individual meets both Reata’s and NIMS’ standards, the evaluator will validate the training.
Tracking and Managing Skills for Continuous Growth
Skill development doesn’t end once a trainee receives a certificate. At Reata, we’re passionate about creating opportunities for our team to develop new skills—and the STS software makes this growth visible and attainable.
STS offers transparency for individuals to look into how much of their expertise transfers to other roles, promoting career growth both vertically and laterally. For instance, a CNC turning operator might discover that they are halfway qualified to become a turning specialist, or maybe their skills overlap with another department they’re interested in pursuing.
Additional Benefits of Our STS Implementation
Reata’s partnership with NIMS for standardized training and apprenticeships is a monumental step toward ensuring operational excellence today, tomorrow, and for years to come. Here’s how our standardized training program benefits our business and our customers:
Capturing Tribal Knowledge
As some of our most experienced employees approach retirement age, capturing their knowledge is essential. STS serves as a digital repository for their expertise, capturing and preserving invaluable tribal knowledge for future generations of Reata team members.
Seamless Customization
While STS follows nationwide standards, it also allows us to add custom requirements specific to our particular processes. For instance, if one of our machines calls for unique setup procedures, we can include those details in the training program. That way, every individual on our team is well-equipped to handle the specifics of our precision machine shop.
Customer Satisfaction
Higher-quality machinists produce higher-quality components. With our NIMS-certified, highly-trained team on the job, our customers can feel confident that their parts are in good hands, crafted by skilled professionals with the know-how to ensure superior results.
Are you eager to partner with a precision machine shop that emphasizes workforce development through continuous improvement and innovation? Request a quote from Reata!