Toyota Instructors Resist Letting Up on Young Generation Z Students
The Toyota Technical Skills Academy, also known as the Toyota Apprenticeship Career Training (T.A.C.T.) program, is a renowned training facility for aspiring Toyota automotive technicians. Established in 1938 by Kiichiro Toyoda, the academy's mission is to develop highly skilled technicians who can deliver superior vehicle service and repairs, ensuring customer safety and satisfaction on the road[1][3].
The program's rigorous training structure is not just about servicing vehicles but about preparing technicians to handle complex automotive diagnostics, repairs, and customer interactions professionally and effectively. The complexity of modern vehicles and the premium Toyota brand's reputation require technicians to have advanced capabilities and deep knowledge. This ensures quality workmanship and builds customer trust[1][3].
In addition to technical skills, the academy also focuses on leadership development and career progression. Trainees receive mentorship to progress beyond entry-level technician roles into better-paying and more responsible positions[1][3]. The academy's goal is to teach trainees to act as a team to protect workers and nurture individuals who care about making customers happy and remain committed to quality[1].
The academy's approach to education is deeply rooted in Kiichiro Toyoda's philosophy that "monozukuri is about developing people." This philosophy is evident in the academy's team discipline training, which includes long runs, vocal exercises, endurance swims, and multi-day long-distance walks[2]. Trainees also participate in academic learning, such as welding, sheet-metal working, and other monozukuri skills[1].
Trainees reside in dormitories away from home during their time at the academy and are treated as Toyota employees, receiving a monthly salary and bonuses[2]. Instructors are selected from among the technicians at Toyota's various genba to serve on a three-year rotation, ensuring that frontline technicians are trained by those with intimate knowledge of the genba where they will work, and providing passionate and dedicated instruction[1].
Today, the Toyota Technical Skills Academy is one of only four such facilities where students can obtain a high school diploma upon graduation[1]. The academy's director, Hisashi Yamashita, is a graduate of the school and has had a successful career as a sheet metal technician, winning gold at international WorldSkills competitions[1].
The academy incurs significant costs, including providing meals, uniforms, living spaces, and salaries for several hundred people. However, Toyota has maintained it for over 85 years as a place for developing personnel[1]. The academy's goal is to teach trainees to act as a team to protect workers and nurture individuals who care about making customers happy and remain committed to quality, while also nurturing professionals who can work hard for someone other than themselves[1].
In conclusion, the Toyota Technical Skills Academy is a testament to Toyota's commitment to quality service, safety, and long-term career development for its technicians. Its rigorous training structure, combined with its focus on teamwork, leadership, and career progression, ensures that Toyota's technicians are among the best in the industry.
[1] Toyota Technical Skills Academy. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/toyota_technical_skills_academy/ [2] Toyota Motor Corporation. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://global.toyota/en/company/corporate_info/careers/apprenticeship/index.html [3] Toyota Apprenticeship Career Training (T.A.C.T.). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.toyotaapprenticeship.com/
- The Toyota Technical Skills Academy extends beyond vehicle repairs, offering a comprehensive education-and-self-development program, focusing on personal-growth and learning, to prepare technicians for leading roles in the automotive industry.
- Aside from technical expertise, the Toyota Technical Skills Academy emphasizes leadership development and career progression, ensuring that graduates not only become skilled technicians but individuals committed to personal growth and delivering superior customer service.
