ThyssenKrupp HR Leaders Share Tips on Managing Careers in Manufacturing and Engineering
ThyssenKrupp Encourages Education in Manufacturing to Support National Manufacturing Day
ThyssenKrupp North America, Inc., a global technologies and materials group which includes more than 40 companies operating in the United States, Canada and Mexico, knows first-hand: in the next decade, there will be more job openings in manufacturing than qualified people to fill them.
ThyssenKrupp companies offer a range of products including high performance alloys, automotive components, elevators, escalators, plant construction, industrial services and material trading, handling and logistics. In fiscal year 2013/2014, ThyssenKrupp employed more than 20,000 people across North America.
“Our businesses need people who have a passion for excellence and commitment to their colleagues and customers,” said Anke Felder, head of human resources for ThyssenKrupp North America, Inc. “With these foundational attributes, we can help support them as they take on different challenges throughout their careers.”
The following are some tips and examples of the training and learning development programs offered by some of ThyssenKrupp’s businesses:
High School Students: “It’s never too early to begin preparing for a career in manufacturing.”
Donnie Robinson, Training Manager, ThyssenKrupp Presta Danville, LLC
In Danville, Ill., ThyssenKrupp Presta Danville’s Camshaft Division and its sister company, ThyssenKrupp Crankshaft Co. are part of ThyssenKrupp’s Components Technology business and serve the heavy and light vehicle industry and provide ready-to-install engine components. Along with Danville Area Community College and a vocational development organization, Vermillion Advantage, the two ThyssenKrupp companies have worked together to create the Youth Apprenticeship Program for high school juniors and seniors. Under the Youth Apprenticeship Program, students split their school days between high school and community college where they work towards a National Institute for Metalworking Skills Certification.
College Internships: “Take advantage of college internship opportunities. Internships allow students to apply their academic study in a real life work setting.”
Heather Clark, Senior Professional Human Resource Employee Development Manager, ThyssenKrupp Materials NA, Inc.
ThyssenKrupp’s Material Services business comprises a group of companies that provide production materials and integrated service solutions. This business group offers three- and six-month paid college internships in a variety of disciplines in one of several Material Services divisions throughout the United States. During the internship, students have an opportunity to attend “Leader’s Lunch” with ThyssenKrupp managers, participate in plant tours and, in some cases, receive college credit. These intern programs help students build a strong foundation for a successful transition from college to professional career.
Recent College Graduates: “Companies want to invest in new people entering the industry. We win because we learn from fresh perspectives.”
Heather Clark, Senior Professional Human Resource Employee Development Manager, ThyssenKrupp Materials NA, Inc.
ThyssenKrupp’s Material Services business also offers recent graduates development opportunities. High potential college graduates with a passion for sales can apply to the Sales Talent Development Program. This program rotates participants through several functional rotations in various businesses in the United States. Participants learn business processes from experienced professionals in sales, marketing, operations, purchasing, international sales and shared services. In addition, program participants receive professional development, mentoring and networking opportunities. The Sales Talent Development Program prepares individuals to take on sales roles with increasing levels of challenge and responsibility in sales roles at the company.
Military Support: “Manufacturing careers are a natural transition for veterans. In particular, key functions such as supply chain and third party logistics are very similar to the military’s structure.”
Scott Haas, Talent Acquisition Manager, ThyssenKrupp Aerospace
Over the last three years, ThyssenKrupp Aerospace in North America has donated approximately $30,000 to Hire America’s Heroes, a not-for-profit that connects America’s corporations with the rich skills and abilities of military service members in corporate America. In 2013, 12 percent of ThyssenKrupp Aerospace’s workforce and 15 percent of its new hires were military veterans.
Industry Training: “Education does not end when you begin a career in manufacturing. Matter of fact, with the rapidly changing pace of manufacturing innovation, it’s even more important people keep current on industry trends and standards.”
Deneshia Larson, Manager SEED Campus Americas, ThyssenKrupp Elevator Americas
ThyssenKrupp Elevator Americas, the largest producer of elevators in the Americas, offers architects and property owners continuing education courses approved by the Green Building Certification Institute and American Institute of Architects. This course reviews how elevators can contribute to a projects’ sustainability. In addition, ThyssenKrupp employees have the opportunity to receive training to become accredited LEED Green Associates. More than 200 ThyssenKrupp employees have become LEED Green associates after attending the course.
ThyssenKrupp Learning Hub: “Learning and development should be a life-long objective. Regardless of where you are in your career, take advantage of opportunities to gain new skills to stay marketable in an evolving global economy.”
Michael Simpson, Director, Learning and Development, ThyssenKrupp North America, Inc.
In 2014, ThyssenKrupp launched a series of training programs in general leadership and general skills topics. The courses, held in locations close to where employees work, are especially designed for ThyssenKrupp non-executive employees and managers. In 2015, ThyssenKrupp will double the number of Learning Hub courses and cover communications skills, change management and talent development at sites across the United States and Mexico.
Felder noted: “ThyssenKrupp is committed to investing in our people and our communities. Whether you are a student, just beginning your career or have worked in industry for years, we strive to equip people to become leaders in industry with many programs across our business areas that attract and develop talent at all levels.”
Kellie Harris
Director, Media and Communications
ThyssenKrupp North America, Inc.
Phone: +1 (312) 525-2790
E-mail: kellie.harris@thyssenkrupp.com
About ThyssenKrupp North America, Inc.
ThyssenKrupp North America, Inc. oversees more than 40 companies in the United States, Canada and México. In the fiscal year 2012/2013, ThyssenKrupp North American subsidiaries employed more than 20,000 people. ThyssenKrupp companies offer a range of products including: premium carbon steel, high-performance alloys, automotive components, elevators, escalators, passenger boarding bridges, material trading, handling and logistics, plant construction and industrial services.
ThyssenKrupp is a global diversified technology and materials group based in Essen, Germany. It has 150,000 employees in approximately 80 countries developing ideas and innovations into solutions for sustainable progress. In fiscal year 2011/2012 ThyssenKrupp generated global sales of $64 billion.
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