GM Wants To Restore Old Glory

On the outskirts of old Motown, Detroit, there is a place like an “oasis” for those who hope for the revival of the automobile empire: the UAW-GM Center for Human Resources (CHR). Located by a beautiful river flowing into Lake Erie, the CHR has a big underground parking lot with a capacity for 900 vehicles. Every year 3,000 to 4,000 GM’s UAW members participate in the training for building quality products and get safety education.

The center draws visitors from all over the world. GM and UAW built it in the hopes of having a good relationship between the two parties in 2001. UAW-GM joint programs in training, safety and quality network are available at the CHR where there are dozens of small-size classrooms and a large meeting room that can afford more than 400 people.

One of the most conspicuous features at the CHR is the Simulated Work Environment (SWE) facility on the first floor. “This is a facility for hands-on training. It is just like a real in-plant work environment, as you can see from the red and yellow safety lines on the floor, to the three-story high ceiling”, said Mark Stroll, GM international business team staff.

GM employees learn specific skills to enhance productivity and safety, such as how to wear safety glasses, how to manipulate robots safely and effectively, and how to reduce ergonomic stress. The UAW developed and operates these programs under the major principle of SPQRC, which stands for Safety, People, Quality, Responsiveness and Cost. UAW-GM members plan a more active role in product development and management strategies in the years to come.