Introduction: Recognizing the Unsung Heroes:

Everyone buys products these days, whether it is something essential or something out of impulse. Whether it was produced locally or internationally, there’s a common thread connecting us all – Production Operators. They are the backbone of the manufacturing facilities in every corner of the world. I would like to dedicate this blog to those unsung heroes who would typically hide under the rugs.

Personal Experience: A Week on the Production Floor:

One of my first work experiences ever was an internship in a steel manufacturing industry. I am so glad that they put me on the production floor for a week. I gained some firsthand experience on how tough these individuals work and their importance in the manufacturing process.

I can honestly say that the teamwork they had was stronger than the steel that they were manufacturing. There was a sense of unity and mission throughout the floor. It was hands-on work where everyone helped each other as much as they could to get the job done on time. Their attention to detail on their everyday work was exceptional. Even though I was only on the production floor for a week, I felt as if I was part of the team on day one. I even managed to pass a quality check on my little steel work at the end of the week. I could not have achieved this if it wasn’t for the friendly yet meticulous training and support from the fellow production workers. I even had a pat on my shoulder when I had my work QC certified.

Promoting from Within:

I have always kept this in my mind ever since I got into recruiting. I am also fortunate enough to work with managers and supervisors who usually go beyond their means to help the production operators – not only achieve the maximum but also explore other potentials as well. When I hear that there is a production supervisor role open, I always recommend the upper management to promote within before looking elsewhere. I interviewed so many internal candidates that are perfect for the promotion. Often these internal candidates support each other than pitting against one another. I love scenarios like that, and it is usually the toughest decision to make.

Experience Over Education:

Another example is when I was working in the HR department for the chemical industry. I was assigned to find a production supervisor since we did not have anyone with the right education for the job. I received some good applications online and noticed that one of the current production operators also had their application put in as well. Upon checking the records, he has been with the company for nearly 3 years and his performance was second to none. Yet he lacked the education that he needed to be a supervisor. For me personally, experience presides over education. I brought this up to my management and he was put on a supervisor training program. The company even helped him to get his education on track and now, he is an all-star supervisor that they could have ever asked for.

When you are promoted internally, you not only know the manufacturing process but also the people on the floor as well. This would give anyone a great vantage point where they could make the process even more efficient. A happy production floor has always proven to have the best quality work output.

This is exactly why I am always careful when placing a production operator in an organization. The right production team can be the valuable resources that the company could leverage in advancing their business to the next level. A notable quote from Jim Goodnight, ‘Treat the employees like they make a difference, and they will’.

Conclusion: Concerns and Celebrating Unsung Heroes:

Having said that, I have come across companies that see production workers as just numbers and can easily be replaced. Sometimes I also worry that the machines are slowly replacing humans on the production floor. But for now, at least, it’s time to celebrate these unsung heroes and acknowledge the vital role they play in keeping the wheels of industries turning.