10 Minute Technical Topics: The Benefits of Continuous Job Focused Training

Abstract

This field project for the Master of Science in Engineering Management at the University of Kansas addresses how the utilization of ten (10) minutes per day discussing technical topics with plant maintenance workers has the potential to reap benefits in work productivity and worker confidence. The information supports the development of a quick reference technical topic based training program for electrical maintenance personnel at the MidAmerican Energy Neal Energy Center. The paper includes a review and discussion of pertinent literature research, including quantitative research on the effectiveness of continuous training on the job and methodologies for preparing and presenting training documents. Additional research methodologies use management interviews and a survey analysis of electrical maintenance staff at the designated facility. The surveys and interviews are utilized to support the need and to determine acceptance levels for technical training. The resultant training system developed includes a format and filing system to provide easy access to training materials for continued use by staff and management, a set of benchmark dates for implementation, and system following implementation to conduct further research on the benefits of the technical training.