Improve internal communication and streamlines processes
The opportunity to provide non trade training across all of the businesses was seen as an opportunity to gain a competitive advantage in a slow but very competitive market. Finding ways to deliver JM Kelly products and services more effectively and efficiently would enable the JM Kelly Group to maintain and grow business in tough economic times. With a focus on Project Management, the main aim was to build new processes and communication standards across the business and companies – of which there are 6 in the group.
38 staff enrolled and completed Upskilled’s Diploma of Project Management course, across 3 private classes at JM Kelly’s Rockhampton and Brisbane locations. The staff participating ranged from junior staff right through to the very experienced. To maximise the impact of the training and the training budget, JM Kelly Group accessed various forms of Government Funding and Incentives including: Existing Worker Traineeships, Experience Plus and Manufacturing Skills Queensland Productivity Places Program (PPP).
The 1 day per month sessions provided a good work-life-study balance for staff. This streamlined approach to training enabled the students to focus on their studies away from the pressure and distractions of day to day work. Staff were able to attend class around busy schedules and regular study groups were also attended to assist staff through the course, but more importantly to encourage staff to apply their knowledge and skills to their roles in the business.
A few of the more experienced staff were successful in gaining RPL to achieve their qualification; however the training was beneficial for all of the staff that participated.
The Project Management training has already had a major impact on the business. Staff across different levels of the business are now able to communicate more effectively through new and improved processes and systems implemented as part of the training. Staff now have more confidence to use software to manage the project management process, and have a better understanding of what needs to be achieved. Staff have already made changes to their processes that have seen significant cost savings for the business.
Moving forward, the JM Kelly Group is planning to continue Business Training for staff across the business units. A focus on leadership, people management and time management will provide key staff with the knowledge and skills they need to be more effective in their roles, and to ensure JM Kelly continued success.
Productivity Places Program (PPP) is a joint Commonwealth and Queensland Government Initiative brokered by Manufacturing Skills QLD.
“Upskilled provided a great level of service to ensure a customised solution and that the process of accessing all possible forms of Government Funding and Incentives was seamless. The time and effort they took to customise a course for our particular needs and in a format that was ideal for our business was a key driving force for us choosing Upskilled”
“Upskilled’s training took into account our knowledge and processes and has built on our current policies and procedures. The Project Management course has given staff the tools and understanding to implement processes and procedures better, with significant financial benefits for the business.”
