The SWE simulates manufacturing plant processes and provides hands-on training. Participants come from UAW-represented GM locations throughout the United States. These participants go through the one-day training in what are known as "natural work groups." For example, a plant level group of UAW and GM leaders would attend the training together in order to maximize learning opportunities.
The training directly supports the UAW-GM Quality Network and the GM Global Manufacturing System. The training improves plant quality, safety, productivity and more.
"This unique Simulated Work Environment expands our capabilities to provide training on quality manufacturing systems and a myriad of Quality Network technical training opportunities that are as close to in-plant experience as possible," said Tom Walsh, UAW assistant director and co-director, Quality Network. "The SWE's presence here at the CHR, along with the existing high-bay health and safety area, and the robotic cell manufacturing area, greatly enhances this jointly run, work-based educational center that is unmatched in the auto industry."
"The SWE facility supports people, teamwork and continuous improvement," said Dorothy Hennessy, GM director and co-director, UAW-GM Quality Network. "As a result, it will contribute to the turnaround and success of General Motors."
The 4,073-square-foot SWE is designed as a closed-loop conveyor system with 16 active work stations, plus one material-delivery operator. One of the 17 team members becomes the group leader. Through expert facilitation, participants assemble a product - a wooden car. Participants learn through the team process. They follow standardized work and job element sheets, and identify team dynamics and manufacturing process problems.
To date, more than 1,300 people have participated in the training. It is anticipated that the facility will provide over 5,000 additional training hours during 2006.
The UAW-GM Center for Human Resources (CHR) serves as joint headquarters for UAW-GM nationally administrated programs. These programs, many of them recognized industry benchmarks, include Health & Safety, Quality Network, Training, Tuition Assistance, Work/Family, Diversity and other joint programs impacting the personal- and work-lives UAW-GM employees. Located on the riverfront in downtown Detroit, the CHR features a three-story Health & Safety Center, where training focuses on UAW-GM's commitments to make occupational safety the number one priority of the organization. Additionally, the building features a training facility with the latest electronic and broadband support services. In fact, the CHR is the largest privately funded training institution in the nation.
