Hemaraj training plan gives vocational students a head start

It is planning to put in motion new investments, including the Dual Vocation Training (DVT) Programme, to train skilled workers to cater to the growing demands of the private sector.

In its fourth year as a staunch supporter of the DVT, Hemaraj Land and Development is working with Bankhai Technical College in Rayong province. Hemaraj also invites businesses from its eight industrial estates to join in this programme along with Inergy Automotive Systems (IAS) (Thailand), American Axle and Manufacturing (AAM) (Thailand) and Bangkok Eastern Coil Centre (BCC). 

DVT participants are selected by the college and the company according to individual abilities, motivation and enthusiasm to learn. They receive full tuition scholarships and allowances during the 11-month training period.

High vocational mechanic student Amnuay Vaweprach said: “This apprenticeship will give me a head start in my professional life. Also, it frees me from worrying about school fees while I complete my vocational course.” 

His colleague, Tatinai Burchaipong, added, “I can practice what I learn in the classroom, with a line supervisor on hand to guide and teach me. I like that I am treated by my colleagues like a regular employee.”

“Hemaraj is proud to be part of this constructive project that gives students access to on-the-job training opportunities and allows companies to train potential staff according to their needs. Eastern Seaboard communities can reap developmental benefits as well, while Thailand can retain its position as an industrial leader in the region,” said Hemaraj president and CEO David Nardone. 

Also, the programme could be a cost-effective solution to train and retain young workers that the companies need for the future. The company’s human resources department coordinates directly with the school in the selection process to match qualifications and requirements. 

While classroom courses offer a solid theoretical base, the DVT programme, which is flexible and interactive, gives students a chance to work with innovative enterprises, handle advanced equipment and cutting-edge technology, while also learning in a friendly work environment. 

The college closely monitors the progress of each student to ensure maximum benefits from this experience. In previous years, many ex-apprentices showed loyalty to the company and sought full employment later on. In addition, there is also a tax deduction aspect that can make the DVT attractive to enterprises. 

IAS managing director Geoffroy Bousselin said, “Our six apprentices are rotated regularly to acquire a wide range of skills from different departments, and get to know their co-workers as well. Our line supervisor acts as a coach for these students. We arrange an open house to the factory so parents can see what their children are learning.” 

“We join vocational training projects wherever we are, as part of our corporate policy and our way of giving back to the community,” explained AAM managing director Gregory Bastien.

“With the hands-on training we provide under a mentor’s close supervision, we take them to another level. I would recommend this rewarding programme to other companies.”

BCC director Kozo Mitsui said it was important for students to learn about a company’s concerns, such as safety and the environment, and to adjust to the corporate culture, since all companies are different. 

Bankhai Technical College director Kamol Chumcharoen said, “We appreciate Hemaraj’s role in identifying host companies that pass on to our students their high standards and pursuit of excellence. We have been working together for the past four years to define the needs, methods and goals to ensure the most rewarding internships.”

Armed with the right skills and a rich professional experience, Thai vocational students can take pride in making solid contributions to Thailand’s economy in the future.