Beginners Extrusion Moulding Course
The Sierra 57 Consult Extrusion Moulding Training Course consists of 22 modules overall, with an additional 8 specialty modules that address specific weaknesses that your workforce may have.
For Beginners to Extrusion Moulding, we suggest that candidates take the following 7 modules, with extra 2 courses for Operators, & 2 extra specialty modules. These modules cover the following:
For beginners:
Module EXA – Mathematics Foundation (optional)
Module EX-01 Health and Safety in the workplace.
Module EX-02 Single Screw Extruder Design and Construction
Module EX-04 Die Head Designs, Fitting and Tool Care
Module EX-05 The Importance of Quality.
Module EX-15 Materials Level One: Basic Material Concepts
Module EX-16 Materials Level Two: Polymers and Additives
Extra Modules For Operators:
Module EX-06 Extruder Safe Start Up and Shut Down Procedure
Module EX-07 Principal Function of Three Stage Screw
Specialty Modules
Module EX-G Introduction to PVC Processing
Module EX-H Safe Purging Procedures for Extrusion Machines
EX-PD1: Beginners Extrusion Moulding Courses – Detailed Modules…
EX-1: Health & Safety in the Workplace
Duration: 1/2 day
Aims – To provide an overview of the safety requirements, relevant to the injection moulding industry.
- Workplace hazards
- Use of PPE
- Machine hazards
- Your contribution
- Lifting equipment
- Plastic industry related illnesses
- Housekeeping in the production environment
Outcome – improve Health & Safety awareness across the business and standardise understanding of responsibilities with respect to Health and Safety.
EX-2 Single Screw Extruder Design and Construction
Duration: 1 day
Aims – To provide an overview of the extruder design, functions and extrusion principles.
- Machine Components
- Understanding the operations of the Extruder
- L:D Ratio
- The relationship between screw and barrel
- Shear and Direct heat Transfer and Effect on Plasticising.
Outcome – improve the understanding of all aspects of the single screw extrusion machine to improve overall utilisation and efficiency.
EX-4 Die Head designs, fitting and tool care
Duration: 1/2 day
Aims – educate attendees on functional design of appropriate die heads / crossheads, their care and maintenance:
- Types and variations of die head design.
- Inserts and die plates.
- Checking for wear and damage.
- Good housekeeping. How to store tools correctly.
- Cleaning flow surfaces and dies.
Outcome – reduced down time caused by poor tool maintenance, increased longevity of tool life, instil a duty of care mentality of asset protection, improved productivity due to less tooling issues.
Ex-5 The Importance of Quality
Duration: 1/2 day
Aims – attendees will learn the following aspects as to how quality impacts the business;
- What is the Definition of Quality.
- Consequences to the Organisation of Non-Conformance.
- Cost to the organisation of Customer Complaints.
- Perception to Customers and Loss of Credibility.
- Manufacturing Quality Foundation Pillars
Outcome – reduced scrap, reduction in customer quality issues, increased productivity (Overall Equipment Efficiency OEE), increased profitability, instil a right first-time culture.
EX-PD2: Extrusion Moulding Training for Operators – Detailed Modules…
EX-1: Health & Safety in the Workplace
Duration: 1/2 day
Aims – To provide an overview of the safety requirements, relevant to the injection moulding industry.
- Workplace hazards
- Use of PPE
- Machine hazards
- Your contribution
- Lifting equipment
- Plastic industry related illnesses
- Housekeeping in the production environment
Outcome – improve Health & Safety awareness across the business and standardise understanding of responsibilities with respect to Health and Safety.
EX-6A Extruder safe start up and shut down procedure
Duration: 1 day
Aims – to provide an understanding of safe start up and shut down methodology.
- Identify and Check Ancillary Equipment.
- Identify Machine Controls and Check Barrel Temperatures.
- Identify and Check Plastics Material.
- Identify and Check Die Head and Tooling.
- Identify Necessary Hand Tools and PPE.
- Recognise Correct Safety Protocols.
- Perform Safe Start-up Procedure
- Perform Safe Shut-down Procedure
Outcome – improved understanding of safe start up and shut down of Extrusion process
EX-7 Principal function of 3 stage screw
Duration: 1/2 day
Aims – To gain an understanding of the 3 stage screw.
- Function of the extruder screw.
- Feed Zone.
- Melt / compression zone.
- Metering Zone.
- Screw Compression Ratio – explanation and how it is calculated.
- The Importance of getting it right.
Outcome – Provide understanding of 3 stage screw design and compression ratio in order that personnel can understand effect on different material types and grades.
EX-PD5: Extrusion Moulding Training – Basic Understanding of Pastic Materials
EX-15 – Materials Level One – Basic Material Concepts
Duration: 1/2 day
Aims – Provide a basic understanding of polymer materials
- What are Plastics, and where do they come from.
- Uses of Plastics and the Diversity of the Plastics Industry.
- Classification of Plastics Materials.
- Understanding Material data sheets, level 1.
- Simple molecular construction of plastics materials and Polymerisation.
- Drying and Handling requirements.
Outcome – improved material handling, reduced scrap, increased basic polymer knowledge.
EX-16 – Materials Level Two – Polymers and Additives
Duration: 1/2 day
Aims – increase the knowledge of attendees with respect to different polymer families.
- Homo-Polymers, Co-polymers, Ter-Polymers, Blends and Alloys.
- Amorphous and Semi-Crystalline Plastics.
- Intermediate Molecular Structures of Plastics.
- Incorporation and need for Additives.
Outcome – improved material handling, reduced scrap, increased basic polymer knowledge, enable management team to understand the material handling process, improve CAPEX requirements and understanding with respect to material handling needs.
Specialty Modules for Beginner Extrusion Moulding Training
Module EX-A Mathematics Foundation
Duration: 1/2 Day
Target audience – Extruder operators, process technicians, apprentices, team leaders, middle management
Prerequisites – a basic knowledge of mathematics.
Aims – To give the trainee a basic understanding of mathematical principals used in the extrusion process.
- Whole Numbers, Negative Numbers and Decimals
- Using a Calculator
- Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division
- Rounding Numbers and Significant Figures
- Formulas, Equations and Order of Operations
- Common unit conversions in the extrusion process
- Calculation of Area
- Calculation of Volume
- Calculation of Weight, Mass and Force
- Understanding Percentages
- Understanding ratios
Outputs – Attendees will be more prepared to calculate data.
Module EX-G – Introduction to PVC Processing
Duration: 1/2 Day
Target audience – Material handlers, setters, technicians, and team leaders.
Prerequisites – None
Aims – To increase the knowledge of material handlers with respect to PVC material handling and the correct way to handle them and the risks to be avoided.
- Identification of PVC.
- What is PVC.
- Uses of PVC.
- Properties of PVC.
- Processing Characteristics of PVC.
- Safe Practice.
Outputs – Increased knowledge leading to the safe handling of PVC within extrusion.
Module EX-H – Safe Purging Procedures for Extrusion Machines
Duration: 1 Day
Target audience – Material handlers, setters, technicians, and team leaders.
Prerequisites – None
Aims – To increase the knowledge of material handlers with respect to Safe Purging and the correct way undertake the purging process and the risks to be avoided.
- Understand the Extrusion Machine Modes of Operation.
- Reasons for Machine Stoppages.
- Correct PPE for Safe Purging.
- Types of Plastics Materials
- Safe Purging of Heat Stable Plastics Materials.
- Safe Purging of Heat Sensitive Plastics Materials.
- Special Purging Situations.
- Purging of Acetal and Associated Risks and Safeguards.
Outputs – Safer purging practices within an extrusion environment with correct procedures followed. Cleaning Screws, Barrels and Tooling
Sierra 57 Consult Training Courses are award winning, industry recognised & training body approved. All our plastics training courses are approved by the IOM3. Further, Sierra 57 won 'Best Training & Development' at the Plastic Industry Awards 2022, as well as 'Best Business Initiative' in the 2023 PIA's We are members of the British Plastics Federation (BPF) & Polymer Machinery Manufacturers and Distributors Association (PMMDA)
Education is a powerful way to transform lives & your business.
There is a shortage of good, skilled Engineers in the UK.
Upskilling your workforce will foster loyalty & empower them to be their very best.
Further, upskilling is approximately a third of the cost of recruiting.
Blog feed
8 May 2025A Warm welcome to 3 great Polymer industry professionals who have joined Sierra 57’s Training Division this month, supporting our expansion plans for delivering more technical specialist onsite plastics modular training courses, educating and upskilling the masses for driving to close the skills gap.
Chris Bussey is our new Engineering Manager, a specialist within plastic injection moulding maintenance & automation, supported with 40 years hands-on experience. Chris is working closely with our R&D team for designing & delivering basic to advanced level training courses in electro-mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic and robot applications within IM disciplines, as well us supporting injection moulding maintenance contract projects at customers sites.
Andy Skelson is our contracted designated Training Manager for our new onsite modular courses within Blow Moulding, Extrusion Blow Moulding & Injection Stretch Blow Moulding disciplines.
Andy offers our training division a wealth of experience within this discipline, is highly knowledgeable and an absolute training & delivery professional. A massive advocate of people development and helping others to progress further, Andy is highly regarded and respected within his field craft, and he complements our training team perfectly.
Andy is also available for supporting contractor projects for customers requiring advisory guidance on production & process operations for optimising business efficiencies.
John Allsop is our contracting designated Training Manager for our newly formed Plastics Extrusion Moulding training wing, having worked with our R&D team since January for formulating 22 x new Extrusion Moulding courses, basic to advanced levels for upskilling the workforce within this discipline.
John brings a myriad of expertise and applications, some 40 years knowledge and exposure, is a very personable & amiable character and is a champion for empowering & aiding the workforce for closing the skills gap for extrusion processing businesses. [...]Read more...
25 April 2025Combining hands-on training with expert recruitment to meet evolving industry demands.
Whilst the Training Division of the business continues to evolve and make a difference in upskilling the industry, Q1 of 2025 was also a very productive period for our Technical & Engineering Recruitment Division.
Working closely with our clients in the industry to fully understand their business, their requirements and their pain points, in order to best support their recruitment needs
Making use of our plastics industry network, resourcing tools and specific industry marketing platforms to source candidates with the required technical skillset and personal characteristics across a full range of disciplines including mould setters / technicians, process engineering, toolmaking, quality, maintenance, project management, sales & commercial, senior management, HSE, continuous improvement and logistics
Supporting work seekers to open up doors for them to secure new positions and opportunities within the industry [...]Read more...
25 April 2025Training, Training…and more Training
A busy April start for the S57 Trainers with planned onsite polymer materials and plastic injection moulding education for both upskilling and refreshing technical skills, correct terminology and competence boosting the manufacturing workforce.
Modular training courses of train on site, learn and apply new or refreshed skills, with space between the courses allow the trainees to retain and embed new knowledge, become more confident before starting the next course module phase.
Coaching and mentoring in between courses enforces knowledge retention and “right first time” applications for best practice operations, process optimisation & machine conditioning, driving for better “think out of the box” CI improvements, scrap reduction and improved cycle times and tool change turnarounds.
Are you aware that Sierra 57’s Trainers deliver courses across any shift pattern for ensuring your Trainees’ optimal learning curve is in sync with the shift they are accustomed to working on.
This makes clear sense to have your trainees mentally engaged with new knowledge whilst acknowledging their welfare when returning to their normal work shift.
Whether it’s an earlies, late, nights or weekend shift pattern, we shall work around your staff working patterns, we offer absolute flexibility to maximise your production operations & productivity. [...]Read more...
10 April 2025Sierra 57 Consult’s collaborative training initiative with FANUC Europe has been prominently featured in the latest edition of Automation, Control & Engineering Magazine (ACE). The article showcases how this partnership is setting new standards for technical training within the plastics manufacturing sector. By combining Sierra 57’s specialist recruitment and training expertise with FANUC’s cutting-edge automation technology, the programme addresses the critical skills gap facing the industry. The feature highlights real-world benefits of upskilling existing staff and preparing the next generation of engineers to meet the evolving demands of smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0.
You can read the full article in the ACE Magazine’s latest issue here: https://joom.ag/SZjd [...]Read more...
27 March 2025Sierra 57’s 2025 training series, hosted at FANUC UK, is here!
Polymer Material Science, CPD accreditation to IOM3
Plastic Injection Mould Processing, CPD accreditation to IOM3
Injection Mould Machine Appreciation & Robotics Appreciation
In today’s competitive manufacturing landscape, plastic injection moulding is crucial in producing high-quality, cost-effective products across industries such as automotive, medical devices, packaging, and consumer goods. Achieving efficiency, precision, and consistency requires skilled personnel who understand the intricacies of the process. Investing in specialist training for injection moulding operatives benefits both the industry and businesses.
“Trained plastic injection moulding personnel are invaluable assets to the industry, directly contributing to efficiency, quality, innovation, and safety. Sierra 57 helps our customers prioritise specialist training to secure long-term success in the evolving manufacturing landscape.” – Mark Lawson, Sierra 57 [...]Read more...
6 March 2025Successful February Training Wrap-Up: Elevating Skills and Knowledge at Counterplas Ltd and WHS Plastics Ltd with Expert-led IOM3 Standard Courses
An end to a busy February training, onsite training courses delivered to support personal training, development and upskilling injection moulding career & education knowledge to Counterplas Ltd and WHS Plastics LTD Pickering plant.
Neville Dudley and Tom Creasey delivering hi-content modular courses to Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining (IOM3) standards.
Trainee feedback remains high and positive, ensuring increased morale, heightened interest for wanting to progress further, and promotes staff retention. [...]Read more...
3 March 2025A great series of courses being run this week at the Coventry academy at FANUC Europe.
✅ Wednesday: Polymer Materials Science – FS8 course, accredited to Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining (IOM3) – delivered by Neville Dudley
✅ Thursday: Introduction to Injection Moulding Processing – delivered by Neville Dudley
✅ Friday: Introduction to automation & robots – delivered by Hara Konstantelia
If you would like to engage in any of the above specialist courses planned in for every month of 2025 at the Fanuc Academy, get hands on with the robots and take a deep-dive into polymer material properties & respective applications, contact the following to enquire of available spaces: [...]Read more...
3 March 2025This week, the GTMA – Manufacturing Resource Centre hosted another remarkable Meet the Toolmaker event, which brought together a diverse range of exhibitors and industry visitors. The event provided a dynamic platform for the UK’s leading specialists in precision engineering, toolmaking, automation, and people development to showcase their expertise and enthusiasm. It was a gathering brimming with positive energy, with all attendees demonstrating an unwavering commitment to innovation and collaboration across all industrial sectors.
The event highlighted the strength and resilience of the UK’s manufacturing sector, particularly within the precision engineering and toolmaking space. From cutting-edge automation solutions to bespoke tooling innovations, the event highlighted the vast array of services and technologies that these specialists offer. Whether it’s enhancing production capabilities or providing tailored solutions for complex manufacturing challenges, the industry continues to drive forward with expertise and ingenuity.
Among the event’s key figures were our specialist consultants, Ivor Griffiths and Mark Lawson, who were in attendance to meet with both existing clients and new customers. They engaged with industry professionals from a variety of sectors, discussing the latest trends and innovations in injection moulding and tooling. Their extensive knowledge and hands-on experience helped bridge the gap between customer needs and advanced technological solutions.
In particular, the event served as an excellent opportunity for networking, with many key industry figures and thought leaders in attendance. Whether it was discussing the latest advancements in toolmaking technology or sharing insights into best practices for automation, the atmosphere was one of collaboration and shared purpose. The positive atmosphere was palpable, and attendees left the event with a renewed sense of optimism about the future of UK manufacturing. [...]Read more...
5 February 2025A warm welcome to James Hayward, the latest addition to the Sierra 57 Consult Mould Training & Engineering Division as we continue to expand the team to meet the increasing demand for our onsite mould training and mould contracting support services.
A knowledgeable mould processing professional with demonstrable experience as Technical Manager for a leading medical device injection moulding manufacturer, James is passionate about passing on his expertise to the future of the polymer industry.
James joins the team as Senior Mould Training & Development Consultant and this week jumps straight into shadow training with Training Director Neville Dudley.
Delighted to have you onboard James at an exciting time of continued growth for the business. [...]Read more...
3 February 2025Injection Moulding Setters play a critical role in the manufacturing industry, particularly in sectors such as automotive, consumer goods, and packaging, where precision and efficiency are vital. In the UK, the salary of an injection moulding setter varies depending on factors like experience, location, and the complexity of the work involved.
On average, an Injection Moulding Setter in the UK can expect to earn between £28,000 and £35,000 per year. Highly skilled setters with expertise in more advanced systems, as well as those working in demanding sectors, may earn upwards of £40,000, especially in management or supervisory roles.
Geography plays a significant role in determining salary levels. For example, setters working in London and the South East, where the cost of living is higher, tend to earn more compared to their counterparts in other parts of the UK. In contrast, regions like the North West and Midlands may offer slightly lower salaries, though the cost of living is generally more affordable in these areas.
The role of an Injection Moulding Setter is highly technical, requiring proficiency in machine setup, troubleshooting, maintenance, and ensuring the quality of the final product. Those with additional skills in robotic automation, process optimisation, and lean manufacturing can command higher wages due to the added value they bring to the production process.
In addition to base salaries, many employers offer benefits such as overtime pay, pension contributions, and opportunities for career progression. As the demand for skilled professionals in the manufacturing and automation sectors continues to grow, injection moulding setters are expected to enjoy a stable job market with ample opportunities for advancement and salary increases over time. [...]Read more...
3 February 2025An Overview of the Role of an Injection Moulding Setter
The role of an Injection Moulding Setter is vital in the manufacturing industry, ensuring that injection moulding processes run efficiently and produce high-quality products. This job combines technical expertise, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills. For those with an interest in engineering and hands-on work, it can be a rewarding and stable career choice.
What is Injection Moulding?
To understand the role of a Setter, it is essential to first grasp the basics of injection moulding. This manufacturing process involves melting plastic and injecting it into a mould to create a specific shape or part. The process is widely used in industries such as automotive, electronics, and consumer goods production. The Setter is responsible for setting up and monitoring the machinery that carries out this process, ensuring that each product meets the required standards.
Responsibilities of an Injection Moulding Setter
The primary responsibility of an Injection Moulding Setter is to ensure the injection moulding machines are properly set up and maintained throughout the production cycle. This includes:
Setting Up the Machines
At the start of each shift, the Setter is tasked with preparing the machines for production. This involves selecting the appropriate mould, ensuring it is correctly aligned, and configuring the machine settings, including temperature, pressure, and cycle times. The accuracy of these settings is crucial to achieving the desired product quality.
Monitoring Production
Once the machines are set up and operational, the Setter must continuously monitor the production process. This involves checking for any issues such as irregularities in the moulding process, machine malfunctions, or product defects. If any problems arise, it is the Setter’s responsibility to troubleshoot and adjust the settings to maintain production quality.
Quality Control
A key aspect of the Setter’s role is ensuring the final products meet quality standards. This involves inspecting the moulded parts for defects, measuring them to ensure they conform to specifications, and ensuring they are free from any imperfections. If necessary, the Setter will adjust machine settings to improve the quality of the final product.
Maintenance of Equipment
Regular maintenance of the injection moulding machines is essential for avoiding downtime and ensuring optimal performance. The Setter is responsible for carrying out routine checks, cleaning the machines, and addressing any signs of wear or mechanical issues. Preventative maintenance is critical for ensuring the longevity of the equipment and the efficiency of production.
Key Skills Required
To be successful in the role of an Injection Moulding Setter, individuals must possess a variety of technical and practical skills:
Technical Knowledge: A strong understanding of injection moulding machinery, its components, and its operational processes is crucial.
Attention to Detail: Small variations in machine settings or material quality can have significant impacts on the final product. The ability to spot potential issues is key.
Problem-Solving Abilities: The ability to diagnose and rectify issues that arise during the production process is an important skill for any Setter.
Manual Dexterity: Since the job involves working closely with machinery, a certain level of physical skill and precision is required.
Suitability of the Role
The role of an Injection Moulding Setter is well-suited to individuals with a keen interest in machinery, a problem-solving mindset, and the ability to work under pressure. It is a dynamic and demanding role that requires both independent work and collaboration with other team members to ensure smooth production processes
Advantages of the Role
There are several advantages to pursuing a career as an Injection Moulding Setter:
Job Security: Manufacturing processes, particularly injection moulding, are in high demand across various industries, offering long-term job stability.
Practical and Engaging Work: The role involves hands-on work, providing a sense of satisfaction as one actively contributes to the creation of tangible products.
Career Advancement Opportunities: With experience, setters can progress to higher positions such as production supervisors or technical specialists, opening doors for career growth.
Challenges to Consider
While the role offers many benefits, it also comes with its challenges. It requires a high level of focus and attention to detail, as even small issues can lead to significant problems in production. The Setter must also be prepared to troubleshoot and resolve technical difficulties swiftly to minimise downtime. However, for those who enjoy overcoming challenges, this can be one of the most rewarding aspects of the job. In conclusion, the role of an Injection Moulding Setter is a crucial position within the manufacturing sector. It offers a combination of technical work, quality control, and problem-solving, making it an ideal career for individuals with a passion for engineering and manufacturing. With the right skills and experience, there is significant potential for career advancement in this field. The Injection Moulding & Robotics Appreciation course at Fanuc Academy offers hands-on training, blending automation and moulding processes, to help participants enhance efficiency, quality, and productivity using advanced robotic technology – contact us for more information & to book onto the course. https://fanuc-academy.uk/injection-moulding-robotics-appreciation/ [...]Read more...
16 December 2024At the end of another busy year at Sierra 57 we have taken time to stop, look back and reflect on what has been achieved. In 2021 we realised that developing skills in the moulding industry was of vital importance for effective workplace performance.
It was evident that countless moulders work hard day in day out pushing buttons but not totally understanding how injection moulding machines work. So, we took a step back and developed training courses to review the basics to build a foundation of knowledge to develop the skills required.
This enabled companies to maximise the potential of their teams by investing in their personal development. We have been able, through training, to help individuals to learn new skills, adapt to change and grow in confidence.
In three years, we have delivered 558 courses to 1,485 students with a 98% pass rate. With courses approved for CPD by the IOM3, 221 students have achieved CPD recognition for their training with 4,456 hours of training completed.
In 2024 our training team delivered 202 courses on our customers sites to 467 trainees. Seventy-four students have successfully completed 1,920 hours of CPD training with others working towards completion in 2025, made possible by the modular format of our training.
Our training team’s dedication to sharing their knowledge and experience has been welcomed by students and customers. It has been well received and recognised for the impact it has had within the plants we have worked.
Q4
In Q4, due to the requirement for training in 2025, we have added two trainers to the team, Vince Green and Tom Creasey who will be sharing their knowledge with trainees in 2025 as they deliver the training modules.
If you would like more information on the unique way Sierra 57 Consult delivers training to fit around your business needs to upskill your workforce contact info@sierra57consult .com.
By Richard Brown – Projects Director [...]Read more...
9 December 2024Greater Manchester’s SGH Moulds acquired by the Jalex Futures group in the first full acquisition by the investment firm.
The Buckinghamshire fund Jalex Futures Ltd, has acquired the Bolton based plastic injection moulding firm as part of a series of minority and majority investments since its formation in 2023.
SGH Moulds Ltd is a plastic injection moulding fir SGH Moulds Ltd m that provides a full range of services including tool design and manufacturer, and plastic injection moulding on presses up to 360 tonne.
With five manufacturing, design, tooling, post production assembly and injection moulding sites across Bolton, SGH Moulds is an established full service manufacturer in the North West. Founded in 1978, SGH Moulds started life as a family firm by father and son Kevan and Stephen Howarth, and later joined by sister Lynn Farrell.
It has grown from strength to strength and is now a supplier to numerous international businesses and household names in sectors such as automotive, medical and industrial.
“The acquisition of SGH has been a seven-month process from first meeting to completion. We’re delighted to welcome SGH into our portfolio which includes five other minority stakes in firms ranging from SaaS providers to a restaurant chain. British manufacturing is an exciting industry and we believe SGH is a wonderful platform for future growth” says Jalex Futures CEO, Peter Thompson.
“I’m also pleased to simultaneously announce the appointment of new Managing Director Martin Jones, a thirty-year veteran of the industry. Whilst both Stephen and Lynn are committed to supporting the business for years to come, Martin’s appointment allows them to start enjoying a well-deserved retirement. Working closely with Plastics industry resourcing specialist Sierra 57 Consult, they aided in selecting Martin Jones for this exciting role.”
Outgoing MD Stephen Howarth commented “I’m delighted to see SGH Moulds continue with fresh management, ideas and capital. I want to thank our staff, clients and suppliers for decades of support and commitment in making SGH the business it is today.”
Thompson started Jalex Futures Ltd in October 2023 after the sale of the business he founded, CanTrack Global Ltd in 2021 to the British private equity backed Radius Group. “My own exit showed me the challenges in selling an SME, going through one of the most important processes in your life with limited understanding of how it works. Often too small for PE, a tiny percentage of businesses ever sell and typically a trade sale or private buyer if they do.
I chose to focus on high growth businesses in a range of industries for minority investments, and target retiring business owners of established businesses for acquisitions. Succession planning is incredibly challenging for several reasons in SME’s and Jalex Futures understands the mindset, challenges and needs of those businesses exceptionally well.
I tend to think that younger founders whose challenges lay outside of retirement often have better options than to sell, and this forms part of the advice we provide companies from our experience. The challenge is often one of losing enjoyment from running the business, and this is often around how the owner is involving themselves in it.
Retiring owners have different challenges, there might be a lack of willingness or ability for family to take on the business. Often, it’s a practical need to get their inheritance planning in order, something the recent budget has brought into focus by bringing businesses into the scope of IHT. Planning for and exiting prior to retirement or passing, turns an illiquid asset into capital at the best value whilst the owner is present in the business.
[...]Read more...
2 December 2024A great 3 day event weekend with industry friends & customers in London, albeit some horrendous weather, it was a momentous few days.
🅱️ is for Brilliant Plastics Industry Awards event in London, very well organised by Jackie Hughes and team…. Well done Jackie 👏👏
💟 Huge thanks to our attending guests for helping us work the room fundraising for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and Pam Batson supporting a very popular & busy casino evening sponsored by ARBURG LIMITED .Looking forward to finding what the final total raised is.
💟 well done to all finalists and winners in attendance,- really pleased in particular our friends PlastikCity, TH Plastics Ltd, Andy Jones, Richard Orme and Carl Futcher
🌐 Saturday: the must attend Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park,- bad weather forced us to take shelter in the Beer & Bratwurst tent. Damn shame 😏🤷♂️
🏉 Sunday: Joining FANUC Europe and their guests for 🏴 Vs 🇯🇵 match at Twickenham,- many thanks to Andy Armstrong and Oliver Selby for the invite 👌
Great to be around some marvellous people. Humbled 👌 [...]Read more...
25 November 2024New recruitment for the Sierra 57 team
✅ Vince Green joins us as Technical Manager – Training & Development. An experienced mould tooling & engineering professional, Vince has jumped straight in to our shadow-training induction at one of our customers, refreshing his injection moulding processing expertise and learning our methods for training, delivery of content and the application for best engaging with the trainee audience.👏 a warm welcome to the team Vince.
✅ Justin Davies joins the team as Business Director on a p/time basis to add value to our commercial team whilst exploring new business inroads for our training, mould contracting and recruitment divisions. Having served an extensive period within injection mould manufacturing,
Justin will be an asset to our teams. Having beaten his battle with Cancer this year, we’re pleased to see him back on form and sharing his knowledge and expertise with us.
👏 welcome Justin
Finally with Fanuc Europe
Finally a mighty fine 3-day expo at FANUC Europe HQ was enjoyed by our team of specialists, a good level of interest from visitors of the new Sierra 57 & Fanuc Academy training collaboration for plastic injection moulding & robot training….details to be announced next month, available training dates from Jan 2025 onwards.
👏 Big thanks to Andy Armstrong, Katherine Nowill and Lydia-Pearl Morrissey for working closely with us on the prep for this event. Outstanding work people 👊🏻 [...]Read more...
8 November 2024Tom Creasey has settled in well within our Training Division, undergoing Mould Training development and passing his Basic Core Moulding Discipline certificate, part of his CPD progression accredited to IOM3 Polymer standards. Sitting the course with trainees from WHS Plastics, our Trainer Mark Lee also demonstrates to Tom the essential methods for delivering education both practical & theoretical to ensure course trainees receive the best Q&A time for either learning new content & skills or merely refreshing moulding skills that are dormant because of lack of use, bringing their knowledge to the surface and helping them to retain core principles.
No trainee is the same, they have their own way of learning & embedding new education, this is why Sierra 57 technical moulding courses are delivered to a maximum of 3 per course, providing ample time to ensure all trainees learn within their own comfortable timeframe.
Well done Tom, passing part of your development journey and empowering & encouraging you to drive for intermediate & advanced levels of Polymer materials & plastics injection moulding expertise.
** Certificate presented by S57C’s General Manager Ivor Griffiths.
Author – Mark Lawson [...]Read more...
8 November 2024Sierra 57 were again delivering onsite plastic injection moulding training at WHS Plastics at the Pickering plant, part of the monthly training programme strategically designed with their Management to ensure the upskilling, people development and staff retention.
**Core basic moulding disciplines were delivered
Module 4, Fundamental Principles of Injection Moulding
Module 7, Clamp force and shot weight calculation
Module 9, Moulding faults, causes and remedies
Module 10, The Importance of Quality
Module 11, Simple tooling care and maintenance
Courses accredited to IOM3 Polymer standards, these courses contribute to their CPD hours and upon passing a minimum 70% post training score, they qualify for certificates.
Training was delivered by Mark Lee whilst also shadowing our new Mould Trainer Tom Creasey
.
Author – Mark Lawson [...]Read more...
9 October 2024✅ Sierra 57 Consult continue to work closely with WHS Plastics Pickering plant in delivering hi-content injection moulding training to help both educate and develop the very busy men & women doing a fine job in meeting productivity KPI’s and deliverables.
⚙️Having developed a monthly training programme with Operations Manager Dave Briston and Technical Manager John Gill, the last 12 months has produced good technical Polymer results and an uplift in personal morale with improved attention to detail applications across the shop floor. Mark Richardson, WHS Pickering Plant Director and Mark Lawson, S57C continue the collaboration for identifying best strategies for encouraging and empowering their important staff.
📣Congratulations to the staff trainees for your superb pass results and enthusiastic feedback of our Training.
Polymer Training delivered:
Module 5 – The importance of Process Monitoring
Module 6 – Machine Design & Construction
Module 8 – Machine Control
Module C – Basic Tool Design
Author: Mark Lawson [...]Read more...
24 September 2024Neville Dudley recently delivered training of the 2 day Module F – Team Leader & Manager Injection Moulding Appreciation Course, a good hi-content overview of basic operating fundamentals within mould machine, ancillaries, process, material and the understanding & expectations of the Operators who daily work on their bespoke mould equipment.
Whilst this course is pertinent for all Leaders to have a good understanding of injection moulding operations, it is perfectly designed for them to have a good understanding of the daily operations of their technical staff, for both encouraging & empowering their staff, but also to have a better working cohesion with their staff when conducting their staff’s performance reviews throughout the year. Morale is greatly improved on the shop floor when the Technical mould staff appreciate their superiors have a good understanding of their daily working regime and fulfilment.
Author: Mark Lawson [...]Read more...
9 September 2024Neville Dudley delivered hi-content Polymer materials Training courses across 2 days to MOCAP in Sheffield recently, – a global leading manufacturer of quality Plastic Injection Mould, Blow mould & Rubber moulding caps & closures.
Positive comments received from Scott Ashton , European Operations Manager: “it was great to have Neville down on plant for last 2 days Aug24, his attention to detail delivery across the intermediate levels of Materials modules really broadened the knowledge base of our Trainee Sam, who found it extremely informative and took away some good positives and areas it will help us improve across the business. Having Sierra 57 on site and flexible to work around our shift patterns and business operations provides us with the flexibility for less impact on production whilst empowering our staff with the upskilling & development we need to meet the needs of the business’ technical expertise. I highly recommend Neville Dudley and Mark Lee as trainers to all moulding businesses, – very knowledgeable polymer professionals”
#14 – Materials Level 3, Morphology & Chrystallinity
#15 – Materials Level 4, TG and Design Influences
If you are keen to understand how our materials training can assist your staff’s Polymer awareness and advancement, look at below website link to understand what content the materials modules entail
https://www.sierra57training.com/plastic-materials-training/
Author – Mark Lawson [...]Read more...
30 August 2024Sierra 57 Consult’s mould trainers have been working closely with White Horse Plastics to upskill, develop & advance their Moulding staff’s expertise and knowledge, whilst aiding in retaining their newly developed skillsets…and both people morale and productivity has been recognised throughout the business efficiencies and optimum output.
Testimonial by Frank Crawley, Director at White Horse Plastics:
“Sierra 57 Consult, a great team of talented people supporting the injection moulding industry, White Horse Plastics have engaged them to deliver well-constructed training programmes and will continue to do so. Trainer Mark Lee delivered the programmes with exceptional professionalism and received great feedback from our Setters at all levels”
WHP are a leading precision injection moulding manufacturer specialising in the manufacturing of components for the Medical, Consumer & Engineering sectors.
Some of the USP’s:
Trusted supplier to the automotive industry for over forty years
Experienced manufacturer of medical components
Specialists in biopolymer moulding
Robust quality processes
End to end manufacturing service from DFM to despatch
Engineers that frequently work at Cpk values > 2.0
Accreditations ISO 13485, ISO 9001, IATF 16949 & ISO 14001
Author – Mark Lawson [...]Read more...
12 August 2024Sierra 57 Consult (S57C) are well positioned to support a business’s strategic growth, succession planning and upskilling of a workforce as a strategic partner from one of its four business arms. These being Technical & Engineering Recruitment, Polymer Process & Materials Training, Engineering Consultancy and Contract Process Engineers.
Every business faces challenges, whether that is from staff retirement, transient personnel or unexpected processing demands. To mitigate these demands a strategic plan is important as it enables positive response to these challenges, reactivity or remaining passive are not the way forward and S57C can work alongside you to help develop your workforce and fill your skill gaps.
RECRUITMENT SERVICES
The focus of the team is to support businesses and people to succeed, whether that is finding new roles, upskilling their team or filling a short-term gap in the organisation. This has been achieved by building long lasting relationships with both businesses and candidates.
S57C have a distinctive approach to recruitment as they work in collaboration with the client and potential candidates using their knowledge, expertise and experience of the sector to ensure success for both business and candidate. With a far-reaching network they can offer a bespoke and structured approach to plug those difficult to fill vacancies.
At S57C, all businesses and candidates receive excellent communication during the recruitment process, providing support and constructive advice. They tailor each recruitment assignment to meet the objectives of the client and candidate to ensure a good fit.
POLYMER PROCESS & MATERIALS TRAINING
In 2021 S57C, recognising that the sector faced a major challenge due to significant skills gaps and an ageing workforce; established a training division. This was undertaken by listening to the voice of the customer to determine what their ideal training provider would look like. From the feedback they learnt that the main challenge was releasing staff for an extended period away from the workplace and lack of follow up after training. S57C came up with a training model that delivered bite size modular training on the client’s site that builds up to Continuous Professional Development (CPD) accredited by the IOM3 and follow up mentoring/development to reinforce skills learnt. S57C recognise that Training and Development go hand in hand, training being the process that you use to teach employees the skills they need for their current job. While training focuses on specific areas of knowledge that employees need to fulfil their day-to-day tasks. Development is focused on the career progression of the employee with the activities based on each individual’s career goals and areas of improvement that help them take the next step in their profession.
Research has shown that an employee’s skills generally have a “half-life” of about 5 years, with more technical skills needing improvement after just 2.5 years. It was also found that nearly 30% of skills are lost annually because they aren’t performed regularly or reinforced through training/development. This means that employees continuously need to complete training/development that improves their business, technical and soft skills.
In 2022 S57C won the Plastic Industry Awards Training and Development category for the way they met the needs of TEX Plastics (Barnstable) delivering their high-quality training modules which bridged the skill gaps providing an immediate solution and creating mentors within the business to encourage others.
This was followed up in 2023 with S57C winning the Plastic Industry Awards Best Business Initiative category for its approach to providing an online Training Need Analysis Portal. This identifies an individual skill gaps to ensure the correct training is delivered maximising the ROI on training.
The S57C approach has been very successful with training statistics that speak for themselves since inception:
405 courses delivered
1,108 people trained
98% pass rate
174 IOM3 accredited CPD certificates issued
3,904 IOM3 accredited CPD hours completed
ENGINEERING CONSULTANCY
S57C can also provide, via their Engineering Consultants, expertise and guidance on engineering projects and advise customers how best to meet their design for manufacture and processing needs. We are able to discuss the technical needs and then project manage the implementation of technical solutions in accordance with industry best practice. Our aim is to:
Understand the needs of the project and scope out the deliverables
Conduct research, interviews and analyse the data to resolve the issue
Detect the issues and propose ways to resolve them
Identifying the advantages and disadvantages and providing solutions
Developing and implementing new procedures and training to support the introduction of these.
CONTRACT PROCESS ENGINEERS
When there is a short-term need for expertise S57C can provide a solution by offering a Contract Process Engineer to work on site with your team. They have the knowledge to deliver fit for purpose solutions to process engineering issues and New Product Introduction (NPI). Our consultants have good all-round experience covering IML, Medical, Automotive and contract moulding sectors.
SUMMARY
S57C can offer a blend of services from recruitment to training. The combination of structured bespoke bite-size industry led training, consultancy and contract services are aimed at all operational levels with a focus on enhancing skills, knowledge, productivity and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).
This suite of solutions help to tackle skill shortages whether via recruitment, upskilling via training, onsite consultancy or a processing engineer on site for short term project or tool trailing.
https://www.sierra57consult.co.uk/
https://www.sierra57training.com/
Contact: info@sierra57consult.co.uk
Tel: 01684 217 680
Author – Mark Lee [...]Read more...
31 July 2024Injection Moulding Process
As most of us are aware the injection moulding process, as with most other polymer conversion processes, have four main inputs:
Machine
Mould or Die.
Process inputs.
Material.
With other materials manufacturing industries such as metallurgy and ceramics industries, greater emphasis is placed upon the understanding of and training surrounding the material in question. The UK Polymer Conversion industry has been slow to recognise the importance of training against the very material that we ask our setters, technicians and process engineers to work with and process on a daily basis.
Understanding how polymer materials work
Understanding how polymer works, it’s Non-Newtonian characteristics and flow behaviour impact significantly on every aspect of the process from cycle time to product quality and in service performance. To help combat the current skills shortage and fill the knowledge gap Sierra 57 Consult has developed a range of modular Polymer Materials based training programmes aimed at all levels of understanding and accredited by The Institute of Materials (IoM3):
Basic Materials Concepts.
Polymers and Additives.
Crystallinity and Morphology.
Tg and Design Influences.
Fluid Dynamics.
These progressive, modular courses are half or full day in duration and are aimed at all personnel both technical and non-technical wishing to improve their current understanding of Polymer materials.
Please register your interest to attend one or more of these popular modular programmes by contacting hi@sierra57training.com
Author – Richard Brown [...]Read more...
31 July 2024We are thrilled to announce that our efforts in delivering advanced Polymer materials and Injection Moulding training courses are yielding significant results. This year, we have seen a remarkable turnaround in RFQs (Request for Quotation) stemming from connections made at @medtech2023. Our training modules are now firmly recognised by several leading Medical Device Trade Moulders and OEMs across the UK and Ireland, reinforcing our position as an industry leader in plastics education and training.
Revolutionising Training with Bite-Sized Modules
Understanding the diverse learning needs of our clients, Sierra 57 has developed a unique approach to training. Our courses are segmented into bite-sized modules, allowing staff to learn at their own pace. This method ensures that the new education is not only well received but also retained effectively, making a tangible impact on operational efficiency and product quality.
Our training programs are also accredited by the prestigious @IOM3 (Institute of Materials, Minerals, and Mining), a testament to the quality and relevance of our curriculum. Each course is delivered by time-served Polymer Processing Experts who bring a wealth of practical experience and industry knowledge to the table. Their expertise ensures that our clients receive the most current and applicable training available in the industry today.
Supporting ISO13485 Compliance
For companies aiming to attain or maintain ISO13485 certification, our training programs provide essential support. We understand the critical importance of regulatory compliance in the medical device sector. Our courses are designed to align with ISO13485 standards, ensuring that your staff are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to uphold these stringent requirements and improve efficiencies within your manufacturing organisation.
Empowering Staff and Driving Innovation
Our training programs are not just about meeting regulatory standards; they are about fostering innovation and promoting professional growth within your organisation. By empowering your staff with advanced knowledge and skills, we help drive new product introductions (NPI) and enhance overall operational efficiency.
Client Testimonials
Our clients have consistently praised the impact of our training programs. A leading OEM in the UK stated, “Sierra 57’s training modules have transformed our approach to polymer processing. The bite-sized format made it easy for our team to digest and apply the new knowledge, leading to immediate improvements in our production line.”
Join the Ranks of Industry Leaders
As we continue to expand our reach and impact, we invite other medical device manufacturers and trade moulders to experience the benefits of our advanced training programs. Whether you are already ISO13485 certified or working towards it, our tailored training solutions can help you achieve your goals. Training and development within our industry is vital for growth in UK Manufacturing.
To learn more about how Sierra 57 can enhance your staff training and support your new product introductions, please contact us at contact@sierra57consult.com. Our team is ready to help you elevate your operational capabilities and stay ahead in the competitive medical device industry.
Author – Mark Lawson [...]Read more...
26 June 2024We are happy to share the recognition of the recent training success provided by Sierra 57 to their exceptional team of Mould Setters and Process Engineers at the Owen Mumford medical device manufacturing plant in Chipping Norton. 🚀
Over an intensive 5-day period, our mould experts delivered comprehensive troubleshooting and materials training, accredited to IOM3 standards, empowering the team with advanced skills and knowledge. The dedication and enthusiasm displayed by the Owen Mumford team were truly inspiring!
Key Highlights from the Training:
🔹 Hands-On Troubleshooting: Practical sessions that equipped the team with real-world problem-solving skills.
🔹 Materials Expertise: In-depth understanding of material properties and their impact on production processes.
🔹 Collaborative Learning: Interactive workshops that fostered teamwork and knowledge sharing.
The feedback from the participants has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the immediate improvements in efficiency and problem-solving capabilities. This training is a testament to the power of investing in your team’s development and the tangible benefits it brings to operational excellence, optimising productivity & processing efficiencies .
A huge thank you to Owen Mumford for their commitment to continuous improvement and to the Sierra 57 team for delivering solid high-content training courses. Together, we are driving innovation and excellence in the industry! 🌟
Author – Mark Lawson [...]Read more...
30 October 2023 We are sponsoring the British Plastics Federation Dinner tomorrow night. It’s their 90th Anniversary
Sierra 57 Consult Ltd are proud to sponsor the British Plastics Federation Annual Dinner on Thursday 12th October 2023, being held at the Royal Lancaster London Hotel, Lancaster Terrace, London W2 2TY
We will be of course attending, with key people & friends of Sierra 57 Consult Ltd; looking forward to an eventful networking evening with wine & dance.
There will be over 400 guests from across the plastics industry for an evening of entertainment and networking.
You can still register to attend this important event on the Plastics Industry calendar. https://lnkd.in/eRx_-gFT
Sierra 57 Consult Ltd look forward to seeing you there
#bpfdinner
#plasticsindustry
#technicalrecruitment [...]Read more...
13 October 2023A great Evening for Sierra 57 Consult Ltd @ BPF 90th Annual Dinner
We at Sierra 57 Consult Ltd would like to thank British Plastics Federation for a magical evening, attending the BPF Annual Dinner. This year celebrating its 90th anniversary.
The event look place last night (Thursday 12th) & was, as promised, a great networking opportunity with dinner & wine flowing. Ed Balls provided an enthralling after dinner talk, with anecdotes from Parliament & Strictly. It was superb!
Sierra 57 Consult Ltd were sponsors, & took a table of close associates & partied late (as always)! We had a fantastic time.
To those we met – it was good to see you all & catch up with the movers & shakers in the Plastics Industry.
If you didn’t manage to catch up with us at the event to chat about what our award-winning Sierra 57 Consult Training or our expert Technical Recruitment can do for your business, be sure to get in touch.
We look forward to speaking to you.
Thanks again British Plastics Federation for a great evening
https://www.bpf.co.uk/article/bpf-annual-dinner-2023-3415.aspx [...]Read more...
8 September 2023Congratulations to Adam Nowalinski Zeke Murthi and Jake King from Pentagon Plastics Group Ltd for successfully passing the following training at Graham House:
Module 12 – Materials level 1 – Basic Material Concepts
Module 13 – Materials level 2 – Polymers and Additives
For more information of S57 Plastics Industry Awards winning injection moulding courses, contact us or visit our website https://lnkd.in/ezr98aPG
#injectionmouldingtraining #polymertraining #plasticsmanufacturing
https://www.pentagonplastics.co.uk/
Unit 4,
Blatchford Road,
Horsham,
West Sussex,
RH13 5QR [...]Read more...
8 September 2023Congrats to the Polypipe team for successfully completing:
PD1: Injection Moulding for Beginners.
PD5: Basic Understanding of Plastics Materials.
Your hard work is paying off- just imagine what you’ll do next!
https://www.polypipe.com/
Broomhouse Lane
Edlington
DN12 1ES
#plasticsmanufacturing #injectionmouldingtraining #manufacturing [...]Read more...
6 September 2023Sierra 57 Consult, a specialist precision engineering recruitment and consultancy agency based in Worcestershire, UK, announces its latest achievement – winning the prestigious title of Best Precision Engineering Recruitment Agency 2023 – UK. This recognition not only highlights the exceptional commitment of Sierra 57 Consult but also underscores the profound benefits it brings to its valued customers.
With a strong focus on customer satisfaction and dedicated service, Sierra 57 Consult offers expert technical recruitment, onsite mould training, and tooling validation project management, and is committed to meeting the evolving challenges of the plastics industry.
Ivor Griffiths, the General Manager of the Recruitment Division at Sierra 57 Consult, shares his insights, “Working closely with our industry associates, we strive to offer a broad reach that covers various industry sectors. Our mission is to support our clients in the plastics manufacturing industry by sourcing the most skilled candidates and assisting them in retaining top talent within their organisations.”
When it comes to Sierra 57 Consult’s team, the emphasis is on finding the best fit. Ivor highlights, “The most important thing for us when searching for new staff is for candidates to have the right positive, professional attitude and the drive to learn and develop their own knowledge bank.” This focus enables Sierra 57 Consult to deliver unparalleled service to its clients, catering to their unique requirements. The company has a wealth of combined experience but provides comprehensive training to ensure everyone is aligned and offers clear growth opportunities within the organisation.
At Sierra 57 Consult, effective communication is the cornerstone of success. Maintaining the highest standards of communication with clients and candidates alike ensures a thoroughly professional service and keeps everyone updated throughout the process.
In 2022, Sierra 57 Consult’s Plastic injection moulding training arm which won the 2022 Plastics Industry Award for ‘Best Training and Development Initiative’, delivered 181 courses to 455 individuals, achieving an impressive 96% pass rate. These courses are accredited by the IoM3 for Continuous Professional Development, reflecting Sierra 57 Consult’s commitment to providing valuable ongoing learning opportunities.
As Sierra 57 Consult garners well-deserved recognition as the Best Precision Engineering Recruitment Agency, it continues to prioritise customer satisfaction and exceptional service. This achievement reaffirms its position as a trusted industry leader, poised to exceed expectations and deliver outstanding results for its customers in the years to come.
To read the full article https://www.sme-news.co.uk/issues/uk-enterprise-awards-2023/167/ [...]Read more...
31 August 2023Congratulations to the Team at River Manufacturing for successfully completing:
Module B: Zero Parameter Set-Up Injection End.
Their trainer, Adam Nowalinski, is a skilled and experienced, time-served injection moulder who whilst delivering training in English, can also use his native Polish language to help Polish speaking staff understand English technical moulding terminology, interpretation and technology.
https://www.rivermanufacturing.co.uk/
61-63 Windmill Road, Sunbury on Thames, Middlesex, TW16 7DT
#plasticsmanufacturing #injectionmouldingtraining #injectionmoulding [...]Read more...
30 August 2023Congratulations to the 6 Haitian Injection Moulding Machinery trainees who successfully completed ‘Module N: Materials Handling’ at their impressive new purpose built training facility!
S57 is honoured to have facilitated the first training course at the PMM showroom, delivered expertly by our trainer Neville Dudley – a veteran of 40 years in the plastics industry.
#EngineeringExcellence #TrainingForSuccess #Injectionmoulding
Premier Moulding Machinery (PMM)
Ladymead Business Park
Quainton
Aylesbury
Buckinghamshire
United Kingdom
HP22 4AN
https://haitian.co.uk/ [...]Read more...
25 August 2023Motherson SMR Group Training
Good job everyone at Motherson Group who attended training with Sierra 57’s trainer Neville Dudley.
This is what they have been hard at work studying:
Module H: Basic Mathematics.
Module 5: The Importance of Process Monitoring.
Module 6: Machine Design & Construction.
Module 7: Clamp Force & Shot Weight Calculations.
Module 8: Machine Control.
Module C: Basic Tool Design.
Training not only helps improve the quality of work, it also helps increase staff motivation and improve productivity. [...]Read more...
20 August 2023Leadership requires continual growth and learning.
Cubis Systems leader demonstrates commitment to both with the successful completion of Module F: Team Leaders IM Appreciation.
For more information on S57 specialist injection moulding courses: https://lnkd.in/eqDJejKD
https://www.cubis-systems.com/uk/
4 Silverwood Industrial Estate
Lurgan Co.
Armagh
BT66 6LN [...]Read more...
12 August 2023Injection Moulding Training @ Sierra 57 HQ
Materials Modules being delivered at the Malvern Sierra 57 Training Centre this week:
⚙ Module 12 – Materials level 1 – Basic Material Concepts
⚙ Module 13 – Materials level 2 – Polymers and Additives
⚙ Module 14 – Materials level 3 – Morphology and Crystallinity
Great to see trainees attending from Plastic Supplies Dudley Ltd, A K Industries Ltd and Talisman Plastics .
Education unlocks attendees’ true potential! Neville Dudley and all our trainers tailor the courses to the speed of each trainee’s own learning pace, so they are able to learn, retain, and expand their knowledge base like never before. #educationispower [...]Read more...
6 August 2023We’d like to congratulate Talisman Plastics ‘s Simon F.-Thomas Goodwin and Robert Ambroziak on successfully completing the following training:
Simon F. & Thomas Goodwin:
PD 5: Basic Understanding of Plastics Materials
Module 14, Materials level 3 – Morphology and Crystallinity
Robert Ambroziak:
Optional Module H – Basic Mathematics
Module 1, Health and Safety in the Workplace
Module 2, Fundamental Principles of Pressure and Speed
Module 3, Mould Protection
Module 4, Fundamental Principles of Injection Moulding
Module 10, The Importance of Quality
Module 11, Simple tooling care and maintenance
Module PD 1: Injection Moulding for Beginners (32 hours CPD)
If you are interested in finding out more about our bite-sized, on-site, IOM3 (Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining) approved specialist mould training [...]Read more...
30 July 2023OGM: Plastic Injection Moulding Manufacturer investing in their staff training to ensure the highest standards of production and employee satisfaction. The team successfully completed:
Module E: Safe Tool Mounting
Module H: Basic Mathematics
Module 12: Materials Level 1
Module 13: Materials Level 2
Learn from the best! Training delivered by Mark Lee who has over 30 years of injection moulding experience and is an expert trainer. S57 courses fully accredited by IOM3 (Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining).
#injectionmoulding #polymerindustry #imjectionmouldingtraining
Home
[...]Read more...
25 July 2023Congratulations to Synthotec Limited‘s Tiby, pictured with Ops Director Wayne Williams and Ivor Griffiths for successfully completing the following training:
Module A – Zero Parameter set up- clamp end.
Module B – Zero Parameter set up- Injection end.
Achieving – Module PD 4: Intermediate Injection Moulding Practical (32 hours CPD).
???? Investing in your team is investing in your success ???? [...]Read more...
10 July 2023How does your workforce fare against your competitors? Are you investing in your people for upskilling & development? Are you a business looking to grow and drive forward?
Why is there a lack of well qualified injection moulding technicians? Has this been a result of a reduction in companies training people in the past due to recessions and the COVID pandemic? You could argue that it is also partly caused by historic changes to the apprenticeship scheme by the Government. We also have an aging workforce where we are haemorrhaging Polymer / Moulding skills out of the industry.
Do you know what the level of skills are in your business? Are you ready for future business?
Sierra 57 Consult can help you assess the knowledge in your business by way of a skills audit and recommend an upskilling & career development route.
We are seeing a real push across the UK to start training and upskilling more individuals currently as businesses look to close their skill gaps following a skills audit.
If you are amongst those that believe there aren’t enough good Moulding Technicians, please don’t complain about it…..start enquiring about the best methods bespoke to your business for training your people, promoting your business and retaining the right personnel that want to succeed for greater aspirations, which in turn promotes your company and “right first time” products.
Contact Sierra 57 Consult’s Mould Training division, speak with the Polymer team who can help you on your training journey, and design an affordable and efficient road map for your workforce.
“Protect your workforce, invest in their ambition, close the skillsgap”
[...]Read more...
5 June 2023Businesses are recognising that their future economic prosperity and the ability to maintain and enhance a competitive advantage over their international competitors can be derived through the prioritisation of strategic investments in human capital and, in general skills.
Indeed, much research highlights that the attraction and retention of talent should be the top priorities of a business. Attracting the right employees is as critical as retaining existing employees with retention being an important aspect.
We all need to maintain a constant focus on investment in our human capital to ensure we are equipped with high-quality people with the required skills. This is crucial to sustaining long-term productivity and economic competitiveness.
World-class technical skills lie at the heart of all successful polymer companies, and this is where Sierra 57 Consult are focussing on as we help our customers grow. We recognise that you need to constantly concentrate on the expertise of the team to remain at the cutting edge of innovation and manufacturing excellence and thereby support sustainable growth and development.
The focus of Sierra 57Consult is to support the evolution of polymer processors via recruitment, training and mould contracting, networking to create strong and lasting relationships whilst working as a partner to our customers helping to empower them by enabling the ongoing upskilling learning and development of their employees.
We recognise that many companies are struggling to recruit candidates with the skills they require but have not considered training to up-skill their current workforce to fill the skills gaps.
Key advantages to upskilling your team with training are:
Save and increase revenue in the long term.
Improving performance and efficiency.
Attract new business with the additional skills.
Keep up to date with the industry standards.
Keep employees motivated and productive in their job.
At Sierra 57 Consult we have a team of exceptional trainers, with experience at the ‘coal face’, ready to identify and deliver the training required on site in your facility.
We are currently working with employers who are investing money, time and energy into employee training, development, and growth – tactics that employment experts have long pointed to as being crucial for strong team morale, long-term employee retention and successful word-of-mouth-driven recruitment.
It is important to offer all employees the opportunity for workforce development by improving their skills. It is to easy to let training take a backseat to other expenditures but the most effective way to reduce scrap, cycle times, set up times and downtime is to provide the necessary skills to the workforce. This will have the greatest effect long term on the business.
Sierra 57 Training Approach
How do Sierra 57 Consult approach this? One of our expert trainer/consultants will come to your facility and train a group of your team members together. This is a cost effective way to include teams from multiple departments and it eliminates the need for travel and extended time away from work.
This is an ideal method of training because you’re able to use your own machines and we can customise training to your specific needs. Working with you we can also create a training implementation plan to ensure long-term business success.
The benefits of in-plant training are mainly:
Train a number of employees simultaneously.
Eliminate travel costs.
Reduce time away from work.
Use your own machinery and equipment.
Customised training for your specific needs.
Get everyone speaking the same language.
In-plant training means we train at your facility to provide the training identified, we can offer one-on-one training and mentoring if required. Following the training/coaching your team will walk away speaking the same processing language, which often improves organizational efficiency and communication. [...]Read more...
26 April 2023There has been a growing skills gap in the worldwide plastics industry for many years. As technology moves on, this has become even more of an issue. There is no quick fix, but a good start can be made by investing in training and offering more apprenticeships to bring new people into the sector.
Career Paths and Organisational Goals
To ensure the long-term success of a company, staff must be made aware of the available career paths. To support that, managers must be able to recognise how those roles are critical to meeting organisational goals. Investing in employees so they can advance their careers is common sense; employers who invest in their teams are able to hire, retain and develop the most productive and motivated employees.
Why Employees Leave
Some companies might say that staff attrition is to be expected and this makes them reluctant to invest in training. In many cases they blame the economy, modern cultural trends, the retirement of baby boomers and poor retention linked to millennials being perceived as notorious job hoppers.
However, in many cases, the reasons for people leaving a company are related to the development strategy of a given business and a lack of internal training. Capable and ambitious employees are constantly looking to expand their expertise and improve their skills, to stay up to date to help advance their career. If an employer does not offer learning and development opportunities, they risk demotivating and ultimately losing their talented staff members.
Selling the Benefits of Training
It is the lack of training and learning opportunities which leads to frustrated employees looking elsewhere for professional career progression and job satisfaction. Correspondingly, happier and more contented employees who are supported through training are more likely to be loyal to their employer.
If you are interested in introducing a training plan, it needs to sell the benefits to both the staff and the business. Team members can sometimes show resistance to training if it is presented as mandatory. However, when it is linked to an employee’s professional and personal objectives, while being relevant to the organisational strategy, it is far more likely to be accepted.
Training Needs Assessment
A good starting point is a skills audit using a Training Needs Assessment. This can identify gaps in the organisation and ensure that any training delivers the correct level of training, while meeting the requirements of the organisation.
Ongoing Training
Most importantly, training must be presented as a project, rather than the traditional one-off activity. Additionally, trainees must be given the time and resources to implement knowledge gained. The most effective training can show significant return on investment when correctly implemented, with a world-class workforce helping to drive profitability.
It was the renowned American motivational speaker, Zig Ziglar, who said, “What’s worse than training your workers and losing them? Not training them and keeping them!” The challenge we all face is to invest in our employees by offering ongoing training and development opportunities. By doing so, we can retain our talented staff members and help drive organisational success. [...]Read more...
21 April 2023A question often asked is whether employee training is a smart investment. It’s accepted that employee training can be a significant investment, yet it will return increased productivity and sales to a business.
Creating a better working experience through training encourages employees to develop and can also help a business save on expenses/strategy budgets by reducing staff turnover and, subsequently, recruitment costs by onboarding a new employee.
Cultivating and encouraging a positive work culture is a positive way to nurture staff and benefit your business. When it comes to employee motivation, one method to achieve this is through investment in training. Employee training can improve self-worth among staff, inspire their engagement and reinforce their value to the business.
Offering training shows that you appreciate your employees by allowing them to develop in their day-to-day work. Improving employee experience in this manner is critical to retention.
Empowering employees with the opportunity and knowledge to aid their growth benefits the employee and the business. Overall, it will inspire the employee to stay with the business.
Building pathways to develop skills builds excitement and anticipation for results, increasing employee self-worth.
Training planned and rolled out effectively can help employees see potential career progression enabling a business to explain exactly how their efforts contribute to the business.
So, returning to the original question, ‘Is Employee Training a Smart Investment?’
Let me summarise the answers:
Yes, it’s a Smart Business Decision.
Training is an ongoing process for most successful companies.
If you’re not training your employees, who is?
Are they learning their skills from unqualified sources?
A good training plan helps you to invest your training budget more effectively.
If your employees are being trained piecemeal, are they getting a consistent message for processing used unilaterally in your company?
Skilled employees need less supervision.
Skilled employees require less management to complete their job, leaving more time for management to address other issues.
It can reduce employee turnover.
Employees that receive regular training have more confidence and self-worth and are therefore less likely to seek employment elsewhere.
Sierra 57 can help you identify the areas where training is required by using a Training Needs Assessment of your team. We can then offer a structured development/training plan setting up markers for career progression as expectations are met.
It’s important to introduce regular employee training once the journey has started, designating time for training so that staff development becomes part of the routine. Normalising training ensures it remains a business priority to ensure success.
Completing employee training takes time; not everyone can learn simultaneously. That is why Sierra 57 keeps class sizes small and offers one-on-one mentoring as part of the training journey. It’s important that you do not overload employees with unrealistic expectations and work within their capacity. This approach encourages retention and feeds empathy for your employees and their needs.
Having a room in your budget for employee training motivates your team and should be communicated to them. Trained employees are engaged employees, so by investing in your staff, you invest in the workplace and the future of the business.
Boost engagement and empower your team through training. Speak to Sierra 57 Consult to see how we can help you train, coach and police your staff skills progression. [...]Read more...
19 April 2023(Report by Richard Brown, Sierra 57 Director)
It’s been reported that four in five businesses are struggling to fill vacancies because of a lack of skilled workers — the highest number in 17 years.
Six-fold increase in reports of skills shortages in 10 years
The number of employers reporting skills shortages has increased six-fold over the past decade, according to the annual survey of more than 2,000 UK employers, conducted recently by the Manpower Group, one of the UK’s largest statistics & data gathering companies.
At Sierra 57 Consult we are witnessing a similar trend with vacancies at an all-time high with businesses looking to fill the gaps within their businesses. Talent shortages are always a concern for employers, and we are hearing that they are acutely aware of the increasing scarcity of key skills they require. So, they are trying to hold on to their business-critical talent but all too often companies talk about their culture, opportunities and in-house mobility, though the truth at times S57C is finding is very different when candidates approach them looking for their next career opportunity.
Most businesses lack the skills and resources to train in-house successfully
There is a battle for talent going on, but it needs to be recognised that many businesses are very poor at skills training in all of its many aspects. This leads to the question if no one trains anyone, where do they think their future skilled employees are coming from in the Post-Brexit world.
Historically reducing costs by eliminating in-house training and development to boost the bottom line may work for a year or two, but doing this means you end up with a widespread lack of skills as we are currently witnessing. “Just in time hiring” to fill skill gaps does not work as a solution when there is a vacuum in available skills. It’s not rocket science, the solution is in businesses’ own hands, but of course it’s easier to blame someone else – the government, education, Brexit, etc.
Some of the trade skill shortages we are seeing today are largely thanks to an egalitarian Tony Blair’s view that everyone should be able to do a degree, which necessitated changing really useful technical colleges, polytechnics, etc. to universities and we are now paying the price of this. However, Companies such as Dyson and those that sponsor UTC schools have taken it upon themselves to try to fill the gaps.
The solution: Specialist in-house training by experienced and qualified Moulding consultants
At Sierra 57 in 2021 Mark Lawson – Managing Director approached the problem of candidates and skill shortages by thinking outside of the conventional box. Approaching their customers, he floated the concept of a Training/Consulting division of the business to provide in-house training to upskill current staff and thereby fill the apparent skill gaps. The response was decisive and from Mark Lawson’s training vision was born the Sierra 57 Consult Training Division.
Accredited CPD courses
In 2022 Sierra 57 Training gained accreditation for Continuous Professional Development (CPD) for their courses from the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3). With enlightened customers embracing the training model S57C Training delivered 181 courses to 455 individuals. There were also 46 CPD certificate’s awarded representing 1,344 CPD training hours.
Effective, precise & succinct technical content training modules
At Sierra 57 we don’t believe in lengthy trainings courses away from the business, we have broken this down into Modules of a ½ or 1 day duration delivered onsite using the customers machines, tools and materials. In this manner trainees learn at a pace that suits them in small class sizes. Our expert trainers transfer their skills to the trainee after carefully assessing their needs via a Training Skills Assessment. In this manner we help trainees achieve their true potential by ensuring sustained improvement of skills and behaviour to drive increased performance.
Equally in order to promote a trainee’s learning curve, new education learning and promote mental application / mental wellness, S57C trainers will deliver mould module education across any client shift pattern, offering total flexibility to both customer & trainee.
So what are the recognised benefits to having a training plan:
Increased skills leading to fewer mistakes.
Identifies employees’ strengths & weakness.
Morale and employee self-confidence improves.
More employees are better equipped to solve problems.
Product quality & consistency improve.
Damage to equipment reduces & less financial impact on Capex budget.
Committing to training shows your employees they are worth your investment, that you care about their success & career aspirations.
Training helps to create a new culture. Sierra 57 Consults hands-on training is an excellent vehicle to fast-track your lower-level personnel into higher level job functions. This allows you to easily back-fill the lower-level positions and start the training journey again.
So the conclusion is that Employee Training is a smart investment, you are training to gain an advantage. [...]Read more...
31 March 2023In the ever-evolving business landscape, the harmony between customer and supplier organisations is vital for sustained success.
Graham Ward, Group Managing Director of Synthotec Limited explains, “Those companies with converging developments where both strategy and competence align often have the greatest synergies, providing an environment for further sustained development. Whilst diverging organisations find themselves drifting ever further apart.”
A Collaborative Effort
Sierra 57’s Management team have been supporting Synthotec Limited for over 12 years, and both organisations can point to supportive and two way development over the years. Today Sierra 57 Consult has developed a suite of industry specific training programs to sit alongside their targeted recruitment services, which ensure that new staff enter employment with a company well aware of their skill level and the areas that can be enhanced.
Synthotec has also offered time and availability to Sierra 57’s Consultants to ensure that their recruitment team can enhance their knowledge of both the plastics industry processes and the specific needs of Synthotec; their technical challenges and their continued commitment to continuous improvement.
Knowledge Sharing
The latest training program delivered by Sierra 57 on site at Synthotec, is further evidence of how the skills needs can be identified through careful questioning and analysis. Synthotec has a proud record of developing the skills of its whole team, and the recent training courses delivered to Lee and Tiby will be another step in their individual skill development, and will also be another small evolution of the continued development for both organisations.
Mark Lawson, MD @ Sierra 57 Consult adds “understanding the customers’ needs, expectations, deliverables, pain points and their culture aids us massively to advise and recommend high value services that both complement & promote staff empowerment, confidence, development, nurturing and bolsters their staff retention, job satisfaction and provides them with a clear path of how their staff can progress and aspire within the business. Happy and content employees add value to productivity, attention to detail applications, improved H&S and SOP’s, and provide peace of mind to respective Managers / Directors / Company Owners for forging ahead with company directives & strategies. Harmony in the workplace matters; staff matter. Recruitment, training, staff retention matter.”
https://www.plastikmedia.co.uk/sierra-57-and-synthotec-collaboration/ [...]Read more...
29 March 2023Sierra 57 Consult, a leading provider of mould training, recently visited the impressive Arburg HQ in Leamington Spa to explore opportunities for further collaboration. The mission of the visit was to meet with top-level directors and discuss ways to take their engineering relations to the next level.
Arburg’s Impressive Facilities
According to Mark Lawson, the Director of Sierra 57 Consult, “Arburg UK facilities are an excellent showroom and arena for showcasing their equipment and specialist precision plastic moulding/automation engineering brilliance. It is a premier injection moulding machine supplier, supported and driven by highly trained & knowledgeable people, who in turn undergo ongoing intensive specialist training and product guidance by the parent HQ in Germany.”
Deeper Knowledge of Arburg’s Injection Mould Machine Product Portfolio
Sierra 57 Consult is thrilled to deepen its knowledge of Arburg’s excellent injection mould machine tool product portfolio, free formers, integrated automation solutions, and control systems. This will enable them to continue delivering first-class IOM3 training and provide process and tool problem-solving solutions to their clients who have Arburg machines on site.
40 Bite-Sized Technical Injection Moulding Courses
As part of the partnership, Sierra 57 trainers will provide a range of 40 bite-sized technical injection moulding courses at Arburg’s cutting-edge facilities. Learners will have the opportunity to hone their skills on the top-of-the-line Arburg Allrounder machines, offering customers who cannot release a mould machine from their busy production runs for technical onsite training, to capitalise and upskill their knowledge bank within technical moulding, tooling and mould materials, obtaining IOM3 certification once passing and completing respective courses.
The Importance of Training
Mark Lawson emphasizes the importance of training when it comes to operating mould machines with confidence, knowledge of their functions, and a keen focus on safety. “As we celebrate our success at the 2022 Plastic Industry Awards, it’s clear that training is paramount. Our commitment to excellence demands nothing less, and with the right skills and knowledge, everyone can operate these machines like a pro.”
Commitment to Excellence
In summary, Sierra 57 Consult is excited to deepen its partnership with Arburg through mould training. The partnership will enable them to deliver top-notch IOM3 training and problem-solving solutions to their clients who have Arburg machines on site. The commitment to excellence demands the right skills and knowledge, and Sierra 57 Consult is committed to providing just that.
(Pictured Nicolas Stein, Arburg Sales Director; Mark Lawson S57 MD; Colin Tirel Arburg MD; Neville Dudley S57 Trainer)
Mark is grateful to Nicolas and Colin for accommodating the meeting. S57 have been invited to attend UK Arburg’s 100th Anniversary Open Day in May, as one of Arburg’s key industry partners, amongst key customer guests and showcasing their latest hybrid mould machine series, the 460H.
Exciting times for both businesses striving forward, pushing boundaries and moving in line with 4.0 Smart Automation and World Class precision engineering. [...]Read more...
24 March 2023In-Company Training from Sierra 57 Consult
Business success comes from having a cohesive team that understand their roles and responsibilities. Fully trained staff are confident to resolve problems effectively and efficiently. They reduce downtime, improve quality and increase output thereby contributing to the bottom line of the business.
The Sierra 57 Consult Ltd Onsite Training was developed in response to customer needs to upskill and further develop existing staff members, promoting staff confidence, personal career recognition and better applications in their everyday machining operations.
Why train?
Improve employee skills, increase their confidence, enable them to take on more challenging responsibilities.
Save the expense and time associated with replacing staff that have left by upskilling and retaining internal talent
Training staff leads to higher morale, reduces internal errors and increases efficiency
The likelihood of employees looking elsewhere for employment is reduced when they feel that their company cares about them
Provide opportunities for career advancement for those that show aptitude in the role.
Why Invest in your team?
Trained employees make educated decisions to resolve problems quicker and efficiently
Trained employees produce less scrap leading to lower costs
Trained employees set up better processes and solve problems faster
Trained employees set up robust processes reducing downtime, keep the machine running longer and decrease tooling and machine damage.
Production of quality parts consistently means happy customers and repeat business.
Does training Improve quality and productivity?
Better process and material understanding leads to efficient processes
Efficient processes lead to reduce cycle times
Introduction of Standard Operating Procedures reduces the impact of process variation
Training provides a good technical understanding and consistent communication with the team speaking the same technical terms/language.
What impact does the absence of trained staff have on a business?
Absence of technical understanding leads to human error, increased scrap rates and inefficient processes
Can lead to tool and equipment damage through poor utilisation and maintenance
Can impact on employee morale and job satisfaction
Sierra 57 Consult Ltd take Training seriously. We can help you Recruit / Train / Retain your workforce. Please see our Training website to see how we can help you Sierra 57 Training
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/injection-moulding-training-plastics-materials-sierra-57-consult/?trackingId=NQgj31KcxUKN%2Fk1EpeMxxw%3D%3D [...]Read more...
24 March 2023Breaking Barriers and Building a Stronger Manufacturing Industry Through Diversity
The Importance of Diversity in the Manufacturing Industry
As a technical recruitment company, Sierra 57 Consult understands the critical role that diversity plays in the manufacturing industry. Sierra 57 Consult welcomes and celebrates the unique perspectives, experiences, and skill sets that women bring to the table. Increasing diversity in manufacturing isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s also essential for companies to thrive. With a diverse workforce, companies can tap into a broader range of ideas, leading to more innovative solutions and a more profitable bottom line.
Why Women Are Critical to the Future of Manufacturing
However, the manufacturing industry is currently facing a skills and labour shortage, making it more crucial than ever to welcome and embrace diverse talent, particularly women, to create a more robust and sustainable workforce. Women currently represent less than 30% of the manufacturing sector workforce, and it is critical to explore the reasons behind the gender imbalance. One of the major potential reasons for the low participation of women in the industry is the ‘industry image problem,’ with many young women still perceiving the industry as being heavy manual labour with hostile working conditions dominated by males.
Addressing the Gender Imbalance in Manufacturing
The lack of diversity in the manufacturing industry can be attributed to various factors, including biased recruitment practices. The way roles are promoted can create a bias, and if companies only use internal resources to advertise job roles, they reinforce the current workforce dynamic, which may not be diverse. Therefore, it is essential for companies to use external agencies for recruitment to ensure that bias is removed from the process.
Sierra 57 Consult’s Commitment to Inclusion and Equity in Manufacturing
Sierra 57 Consult is committed to creating a more inclusive and equitable industry for everyone. The company works to identify and recruit talented women in manufacturing, providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed. Sierra 57 Consult provides its clients with a diverse pool of candidates, helping them to create teams that reflect the communities they serve.
Tackling Barriers to Women’s Success in Manufacturing
There are still many challenges women face in the manufacturing industry, including a lack of role models, the need to work far harder than their male counterparts, and concerns around how their roles in the workplace and home are interconnected. However, efforts can be made to tackle these barriers, such as developing policies on flexible working arrangements and implementing EDI (equality, diversity, and inclusion) mandates in organizations.
Indeed, as experienced by Katie Francis, recruitment manager at Sierra 57 since 2018: “As a new mum recently returning from maternity leave, having been given the opportunity for flexible working hours around childcare and my family has been invaluable, along with the company adopting hybrid working it allows me to be more flexible when the inevitable nursery closures or sickness happens. I believe attitudes towards flexible working has changed for the better but in order to increase and sustain a more diverse workforce this needs to become the new normal for working parents (not just mums) and move away from traditional gender roles”
Celebrating International Women’s Day: Breaking Barriers in Manufacturing with Sierra 57 Consult.
This International Women’s Day, Sierra 57 Consult celebrates the women who are breaking down barriers in manufacturing and paving the way for future generations. We pledge to continue our work in creating a more inclusive and equitable industry, both as an employer and as a recruitment specialist. Together, we can create a brighter future for manufacturing and the world.
The following websites kindly published this blog:
https://www.bpf.co.uk/article/breaking-barriers-and-building-a-stronger-manufacturing-industry-3296.aspx
https://www.gtma.co.uk/breaking-barriers-and-building-a-stronger-manufacturing-industry-through-diversity/
https://www.gtma.co.uk/category/blog/
https://manufacturing-update.co.uk/2023/03/08/sierra-57-consult-breaking-barriers-and-building-a-stronger-manufacturing-industry-through-diversity-engineering-manufacturingindustry/
https://automation-update.co.uk/2023/03/08/sierra-57-consult-breaking-barriers-and-building-a-stronger-manufacturing-industry-through-diversity-engineering-manufacturingindustry/
https://engineering-update.co.uk/2023/03/08/sierra-57-consult-breaking-barriers-and-building-a-stronger-manufacturing-industry-through-diversity-engineering-manufacturingindustry/ [...]Read more...
6 February 2023Our man Glenn Barnett has shared some of his insights into Onsite Training, & why it works so well.
Sierra 57 Consult launched their range of Onsite Plastics Training Courses in 2022; we come to your workplace, training your workforce on the machines that they will be using daily. Our training courses are so good that we won Best Training & Development Programme in the Plastics Industry Awards 2022, as well as being finalists in the Best Business Initiative.
Glenn Barnett is one of Sierra 57 Consult Ltd Onsite Trainers & helped us to become the best training programme available.
12 Reasons Why Onsite Training Works
1. Professional trainers ensures you remain on target
Experienced trainers can teach you the proper protocol and methodologies. This way, you’re less likely to pick up bad habits or make mistakes. Professional trainers also acts as a safety net, so that you have someone to consult if you experience any problems.
2. On-Site training saves money
Training can be expensive, especially in technical industries. On-Site training reduces these costs and provides on-site access to training resources. This means that you can learn quickly and efficiently.
3. It is easily applicable
People interpret information in different ways, so manuals can be risky if they’re the only means of supplying information. Training modules prevent this by giving employees the chance to practise their skills. Information is more readily available as you can talk to your supervisors.
4. It can help you better memorise what you’ve learned
When gaining knowledge through practical experience, you’re more likely to recall this information accurately in the future. This is because you can visualise what’s required of you whilst facing a similar hands-on setting. An increase in retention means that employers can benefit from your high productivity levels and can feel more confident in assigning you more skill-based tasks at an early stage.
5. It saves time
On-Site training allows individuals to acquire information as and when it’s required. Simply put, on-site training involves micro-learning, so learning takes place in small increments and as required. It teaches employees short-term-focused strategies that are integral to their job role. This means that employees benefit from target-specific learning that teaches them important skills more quickly.
6. On-Site training promotes teamwork
As an employee undergoing on-site training, you get to work alongside peers and management from the beginning. This close contact makes you feel more at ease when entering the workplace. You’re more likely to build trust with those you work with you over time, so on-site training promotes a team ethic from the offset.
7. It reduces employee turnover
Employee turnover refers to the rate at which individuals leave employment. This rate is likely to be higher when employees cannot meet expectations or feel incompetent in the workplace. On-Site training reduces this as you learn skills from the outset, this also decreases the chance of someone quitting because they don’t fit in or feel alone on the job.
8. It involves paid training
Since you’re essentially contributing to business functions whilst you acquire new skills, companies compensate your time by paying you as you learn. This means that you don’t have to search for part-time work or use your savings to fund living expenses whilst training for your new position. However, check with your employer or hiring manager first before assuming they cover training costs.
9. It gives you the chance to develop new skills
Some people enjoy jobs that challenge them and allow them to grow as a person. On-Site training supports this by allowing you to develop your skill set through engaging activities. You’re more likely to take an interest in learning if you’re able to get involved and develop new skills.
10. It increases productivity levels
As an employee undergoing training, there’s no need to waste time passing knowledge tests or completing a certain amount of training hours at an alternative location. On-Site training allows you to get to work straight away, which can increase business productivity levels instantly.
11. On-Site training is more flexible
Classroom learning is very linear and rarely accounts for any unusual circumstances, like classroom learning delivered in a monotone format, such as textbooks or presentations. Alternatively, on-site training ensures that you acquire information relevant to your role and business. This can also help prevent you from receiving information or details that are irrelevant to your job roles. There are several ways to diversify on-the-job training to increase retention and adapt to individual learning styles.
12. Gauging understanding and engagement
It is easier for trainers to interact and remove any misunderstanding and provide clarification throughout the training journey if on site. If a trainee has not fully grasped an idea and wants to ask a question, it may be more difficult to get the trainer’s attention when trained in a virtual or off-site environment.
Can We Help You…?
If you would like to know more about our industry-recognised training courses, then please see our website: https://www.sierra57training.com/
Or call Richard Brown on 01684 217 618 for a discussion about how we can help you & your workforce. [...]Read more...
13 September 2022Utilising Sierra 57 Consult’s on-site training, Talisman Plastics has continued its staff development programme, recently focusing on plastic materials. The training course has helped staff learn about classifications of polymers, material data sheets and handling requirements, with more modules planned in the future to build upon this knowledge.
Building upon an exciting and expansive order book for 2022 within both their technical moulding portfolio, tooling projects and caps and closures sectors, Talisman Plastics insists on further training and development for its staff. Recently the company worked alongside Sierra 57 Consult to increase its staff members’ knowledge of the plastic materials utilised on-site.
Taught by Sierra 57 Consult’s onsite Mould Trainer, the Level 1 Materials module has helped staff learn about the classification of plastics materials, understanding material data sheets, drying and handling requirements and simple molecular structures of plastics materials and polymerisation. The course is invaluable to fully underpin the basics of plastic materials and lays the foundation before progressing through to the next modular courses of Sierra 57’s Materials Modules 2, 3 and 4.
Mark Fellowes, Operations Director, Talisman (pictured, third from right) states: “The company continues to identify ways we can best review the strengths and needs of our employees, their commitment levels within our culture, and areas that we feel we can help them aspire and map out their career goals whilst developing their interest in our business growth, giving staff the due recognition that they are an integral part of our journey going forward.”
Spencer Whale, Business Development Manager, Talisman (pictured, right) adds “It’s encouraging to see both the appreciation and productive results in our staff post-training. Their intentions to want to learn more and to utilise their new knowledge across the moulding production areas are noticeably sharper with their everyday applications. Whilst Sierra 57’s onsite modular training helps break down the training for all ranges of learners, the end result is that everyone participating completes a pass rate of between 85-100%. Smaller staff training groups deliver a better one-on-one quality of content and stand a better chance of course content firmly embedded and retained.”
If you’d like to discuss bespoke training programmes for your moulding business or would like to browse the large range of training courses available, visit the Sierra 57 Consult Mould Training section of our website or get in touch directly.
Find out more about Talisman Plastics here: https://www.talismanplastics.co.uk/ [...]Read more...
13 September 2022The Global pandemic and the UK’s desire to leave the European common market have entrenched what was already an issue in UK manufacturing – The shortage of qualified/experienced Engineers.
Historically, the comparatively low wages of UK Engineers have failed to attract new entrants. Further, the education system has struggled to promote Engineering as a career, and diversity is low with women (52% of the UK population) accounting for only 14% of the Engineering workforce 1.
Investment in Training
When an employee leaves a Manufacturing company or a company identifies a skills gap, that role or gap needs to be filled as quickly as possible to ensure downtime is kept to a minimum.
However, the problems with Engineer shortages means that currently the average time-to-hire is taking up to 49 days 2.
Investing in training is one way that Manufacturing firms can minimise staff resignations whilst filling emerging skills gaps. When an employer invests in staff’s learning, development and growth, employees feel valued and are significantly less likely to leave the company. Ongoing Continual Professional Development (CPD) and Upskilling ensures that the developing skills of the workforce fit new emerging technologies.
Upskilling involves improving existing employees’ skills and abilities so they can advance in their current roles and careers within the company. Studies show that upskilling is approximately a third of the cost of recruiting 3.
A company who commits to upskilling will also benefit from:
Increased productivity
Increased staff retention,
Increased production standards
Sierra 57 Consult – Injection Moulding Training
Sierra 57 Consult have created a Polymer Processing Training and Consultancy Division which has developed training modules to support the upskilling of customer’s staff at their own premises. In-company training is ideal for busy Manufacturing firms as:
Shift patterns can be maintained – avoiding interrupting life outside of work.
Training is in a comfortable environment – removing anxiety around travel arrangements.
Machine familiarity is maintained – training and experience will be on the actual machine workers will be expected to use.
With Sierra 57 Consult on-site training, employees can build new skills, develop existing ones, and gain new knowledge that will boost their self-esteem and increase on-the-job productivity.
Group Training Tailored to Individuals
Sierra 57 Consult on-site training can be either individual or group-based learning significantly reducing the cost of training.
Group training helps to unite a company’s employees, strengthening group cohesion whilst developing the skills of the individual. In-company training also guarantees access to a common vocabulary and processes and provides a common foundation for all.
Sierra 57 Consult in-company training is in bite-size chunks so a learner can assimilate learning on the job following the course, before progressing to the next level. Sierra 57 Consult have an excellent reputation for extensive engineering knowledge and have developed courses in polymer processing, design support, tooling, maintenance, business improvements, supervisory and management in collaboration with customers – it will fit perfectly with company needs.
For more information as to the how Sierra 57 Consult can help upskill your team and the Modular Courses available email richard.brown@sierra57consult.com
References
1 Engineering UK – Women in Engineering, March 2022: https://www.engineeringuk.com/research/briefings/women-in-engineering/
2 LinkedIn – Can you wait 49 Days?, Aug 2021
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/can-you-wait-49-days-why-getting-hired-takes-so-long-george-anders/
3 People Management Magazine – Reskilling could save firms £50k compared to hiring new talent, January 2022
https://www.peoplemanagement.co.uk/article/1745212/reskilling-could-save-firms-50k-compared-hiring-new-talent [...]Read more...
13 September 2022The Plastic Industry is a sector that is troubled with a challenging skills shortage. Sierra 57 Consult has recognised this and has identified the need for cost effective training in order to deliver tangible upskilling results. This will help mitigate the lack of moulding talent currently available.
It ought to be argued, and correctly so, that a company’s employees are their greatest asset and investing in their training and development is absolutely key to sustaining business growth and success.
Commitment to employee training and development makes sense when you consider the lengthy and costly process businesses carry out to recruit and hire qualified staff. All too often though, the emphasis on nurturing the personal growth of employees ends once they are hired.
However, cultivating employee’s skills leads to better retention, improved performance, and better-quality products.
It was Richard Branson that said, “Train your people well enough so they can leave but treat them well enough so they don’t want to.”
Retention is a major challenge for employers but retaining effective employees can be achieved through career development. Offering career development initiatives helps employees establish a sense of value within the company, and this in turn, fosters loyalty and eventually results in increased staff retention.
Sierra 57 Consult recently created a Moulding Training Division which has developed training modules to support the upskilling of customer’s moulding staff at their own premises. This is an ideal method of training as the trainees uses the equipment that they are already familiar with, and training can be personalised to close the skill gaps that have been identified ensuring lasting success.
Initially the process begins with our training consultant identifying the gap between employee training and the needs of the business. The base line for training is established by undertaking a Training Needs Analysis.
Sierra 57 Consult’s training is offered in ‘bite size’ modules of a day’s duration that accumulates knowledge over a period of time by adding further modules at a pace to suit the employee and the business. The modules cover the subjects of Mould Processing, Toolmaking, Tool Maintenance, Machine Maintenance and Polymer Materials, building knowledge from basic through to an advanced level. Training cost start at £350 per module for one-to-one training, rising incrementally to £550 per module for three trainees. Also available are modules in IMM Hydraulics, IMM Electronics and Robotics; these are either one or two day modules for three trainees, at a cost of £900 and £1,800 respectively
The benefit of this style of training is that your team will have the embedded knowledge, and will communicate in a style that uses the same processing terminology that will lead to improved communication between all cells and departments.
Since the launch of the Training and Development Division Sierra 57 Consult, training and development engineers have seen demand for their services exponentially increase with training being delivered country wide.
For more information as to the how Sierra 57 Consult can help upskill your team and the Modular Courses available email richard.brown@sierra57consult.com
This article was published on the British Plastics Federation website: https://www.bpf.co.uk/article/recruit-or-upskill-that-is-the-question-2101.aspx
https://interplasinsights.com/plastic-industry-insights/recruit-or-upskill-that-is-the-question/ [...]Read more...