upgrading FOAMGLAS® training by redefining training programmes, developing staff skills, and leading a major investment in training equipment and facilities
Pittsburgh Corning’s Foamglas® brand had a reputation for quality and excellence of training in Europe, but their North American training programmes needed to be extensively redeveloped, and showcase training facilities created close to their Gulf Coast clients.
The major market for Foamglas® insulation in the USA was along the Gulf Coast, yet there were no training facilities for this Pittsburgh-based company.
Training programmes were mostly ad-hoc and reactive.
There was increasing demand from organisations like SWICA, NIA and the unions for training support to the insulation industry.
Pittsburgh Corning decided to make a substantial investment in upgrading Foamglas® training in a programme led by Oliver Hills to create a fully-equipped Houston training centre, mobile training units, and well-defined training programmes.
As a hub and focus for training, a large training facility was built with extensive training pipe rigs, covering small and large pipework.
Examples of Foamglas® insulation installations were incorporated, with large models of cryogenic pipe insulation, HVAC insulation, wall and load-bearing floor insulation.
A high-quality learning environment was created, with the advantage of being located alongside the manufacturing plant and local to major clients.
New training programmes were created, starting with introductory courses and developing to detailed hot and cryogenic insulation application courses.
Mobile training pipe rigs were developed which could be driven around the United States, or flown as hold baggage to more-distant locations, or for shorter simpler training provision.
Development of the training staff was also key, so that the new courses could be delivered with confidence and proficiency.
Local industry organisations, owner operators and unions were involved in supporting the successful roll out of the new programmes and facilities.
These were key elements to ensure the acceptance of the programmes by the industry.
Organisations like SWICA (Southwest Insulation Contractors Association) were also highly supportive of the initiative and the facilities became a resource for events such as the SWICA Inaugral Byron Saddler Cryogenic Craft Competition