In an environment that proves ever more challenging to recruit previously trained, experienced assemblers, technicians and machine operators, Mack Molding has developed an internal core competency training program to help the Company keep pace with the increasingly technical needs of its customers. Launched in 2016, the Mack U program looks within Mack’s own team for excellence, tapping into the expertise of veteran Mack employees to develop courses on topics like customer communication, electrostatic discharge and wiring assemblies. The first program, Electro-Mechanical Operator I, consists of 21 hours of classroom time and hands-on training across 14 courses. To receive certification, successful trainees must demonstrate their proficiency through tests, on which they must score a 90 or better. Mack recently recognized its second class – 30 students in all – for reaching this milestone.
“We’re anticipating a 25-percent increase in staffing across our three Vermont facilities – approximately 50 positions – due to current, as well as anticipated growth,” said Headquarters Plant Manager Rich Hornby. “To meet this demand, however, we also must advance our team. We developed Mack U to do exactly that, and we have been able to keep the momentum going thanks to Vermont Gov. Phil Scott and the Vermont Department of Economic Development, which met our commitment through a Vermont Training Program Grant earlier this year.”
In addition to the foundational and advanced manufacturing training delivered through the Mack U program, the Company is utilizing the grant to train employees on new state-of-the-art equipment the Company recently invested in to expand business opportunities with existing customers while attracting new clients. Additional training needs expected to be met include quality inspector certification and internal auditor training necessary for Mack to maintain its ISO 9001 and 13485 certifications for which the standards have recently been updated, as well as leadership training aimed at helping key team members be better, more productive managers. In all, the Company expects 175 employees to benefit from these training experiences.
“While our roots are in custom injection molding, Mack Molding today is a leading supplier of contract manufacturing services in a diverse range of industries because we have been able to adapt to the changing markets,” Hornby said. “The great thing about Mack is its people. Through their dedication and expertise our employees continue to prove they are our greatest assets, and offering world-class training programs will be key continuing that tradition of success.”
About Mack Molding
Mack Molding is a leading custom plastics molder and supplier of contract manufacturing services. Mack specializes in plastics design, prototyping, molding, sheet metal fabrication, full-service machining and medical device manufacturing. Founded in 1920, Mack is a privately owned business that operates 11 facilities throughout the world. Don Kendall is CEO and chairman. For more information, go to www.mack.com.