Lean manufacturing Training & Development

At Westpack we continue to invest in staff training and development, including lean manufacturing through apprenticeship. But what is it like to complete a lean manufacturing apprenticeship with Westpack. This is what Kaden, who has just completed his apprenticeship had to say….

What did your lean manufacturing apprenticeship entail and what did you learn?

During my lean manufacturing apprenticeship, I learnt how to reduce costs and timings, set up and layout an effective work area, how to help the company be more efficient, understand stock levels and how I impact them. I also learnt about different health and safety procedures, how to be safe at work, and make sure my colleagues are safe too. I also learnt about different recycling procedures and waste management.

How have you put the skills and knowledge from your apprenticeship into practice at Westpack?

Through my lean manufacturing apprenticeship, I learnt that having an efficient workstation makes tasks a lot easier because of this I rearranged my workstation which has made me more efficient. We recently got a new machine called the Weipong and we used lean manufacturing procedures to get this machine up and running quicker than planned. During my apprenticeship I studied manufacturing schedules and the impact of this, at Westpack we work to lead times for our customers so my increased knowledge has enabled me to understand the importance of making sure that I complete my part of the manufacturing process so that as a team we can work to the lead time given.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about becoming an apprentice?

I would say just do it, as you are not only learning but you are gaining real life working experience.