ABS Jets and the Czech Technical University in Prague are implementing a training program on the principles of lean maintenance. The program that is based on the Japanese Kaizen philosophy aims to make positive culture changes on a regular basis to improve the working methods and production processes.
“The concept of ‘Kaizen’ is one of restructuring and organizing every aspect of a system to ensure it remains at peak efficiency,” explains Thierry Barré, ABS Jets’ Technical Director. “The literal translation of the Japanese term ‘Kaizen’ is ‘to become good through change’. The process of lean activities at ABS Jets will benefit our customers.”
During three days, trainees at the ABS Jets Technical Department received introductory training to provide them with the basics for starting the implementation process of lean activities. The training sessions were followed by a ‘Kaizen Week’ in cooperation with Embraer.
“The original philosophy is actually focused on production rather than maintenance. As I familiarized myself with ABS Jets’ company policy and history, it became a challenge for me to participate in implementing a lean philosophy in a maintenance service center with the highest levels of standardization, regulations and quality,” comments Doc. Eng. Michal Kavan CSc. of the University’s Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Management and Economics. “Now I see highly skilled people who want to change their approach to reach better results. It doesn’t mean to be faster but rather to be more effective and satisfied. I look forward to our continued future cooperation with ABS Jets.”
Some the participants in the sessions had to adjust to the new Japanese words describing things they had never heard off before, but they quickly caught on. Others who were familiar with the philosophy were pleased that ABS Jets offers the opportunity to let its employees do the changes which lead to improvement. As one of the trainees said: “I love being a member of this team and feeling to be in a position to change the process of how things develop.” Their professor Michal Kavan added: “And I wish you to be lean.”
