Friesens encourages and supports the development of staff with a full range of job-related and personal educational opportunities. Several on-site classrooms, one a lab with networked computers, and a variety of meeting rooms provide a learning atmosphere away from the pressures of production.

Orientation
Training is a three-part program designed for staff retention. There’s a first-day information session, an introduction to the department and the “Buddy” program, and 8 hours of classroom instruction after a few weeks at the job. Company history and benefits, safety in the workplace, personal attitudes and traits, and an extensive guided tour of production departments help staff members feel at home.

Alternative Education
The local Alternative Education Centre and Friesens cooperate to give employees upgrading, personal development, and computer related training in a self-directed or classroom environment. Friesens policy when hiring those under 18 years of age is that they must have a High School diploma, or must be actively continuing their education towards a diploma.

WHMIS
Friesens commitment to the health and safety of staff is reflected in the expanded Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training. Each staff member spends at least four hours in the classroom learning to identify safety hazards in the use of the various chemicals and cleaners used in book manufacturing. Essential parts of this course include emergency evacuation routes, the location of safety and emergency equipment, and personal protection awareness.

Certificate in Management
Taking a growing company successfully into the future requires an understanding of the industry where it is today and where it’s going, and skills in management and leadership. Friesens staff actively participates in industry sponsored leadership seminars and courses. Most managers have completed, or are active in, the Certificate in Management program at the University of Manitoba with Friesens covering all tuition, text and travel costs. A contracted program provider presents junior management with courses specifically tailored to promote Friesens distinctive management and leadership philosophy.

Print Fair
International Print Week in January provides the ideal backdrop for Friesens annual Print Fair. Equipment and consumables suppliers and guest speakers participate in daily presentations to all the staff. Individual departments tailor training to particular issues of interest. Tours of other manufacturing plants are planned. Industry peers are invited for round-table discussions. A local hall is the site of a wrap-up gala meal for the whole staff with participation from company representatives and invited presenters.

Complementing these initiatives is a commitment to make available other instruction such as specialized one-day seminars, computer-based education, health and safety programs, and on-site or factory equipment manufacturer supplied operator training.

Friesens is committed to the continued, planned, development of staff to maintain leadership in an industry experiencing dramatic changes in technology and customer needs.