To prepare for the future and keep their top talent engaged, Rayglass kicked off leadership training for six of their staff. “We wanted to keep them involved and motivated,” says Operations Manager Steve Collinson. “The guys who attended the leadership course aren’t the supervisors, they’re the next layer down, on the factory floor.”
With production set to double after their recent expansion, Rayglass faces the challenge of an increased workload that current managers cannot handle alone. “We need a subset of leaders,” Steve explains. “We’re growing so fast that supervisors on the floor will need leading hands to help manage projects.”
Steve acknowledges that while this team are recognised for their excellent boatbuilding skills, they’re not trainers – at least not yet. “They’ve got things to learn, and hearing it from someone else adds more value,” he says. “The MAST Workplace Trainer course offered what we needed.” He also found the DiSC training, which highlights personality traits, gave staff a lighter and humorous perspective on how they approach work and interact together. The response has been overwhelmingly positive. “When I asked if they wanted to do the MAST Skills for Success programme next, it was a huge yes,” says Steve.
Rayglass management are taking a planned approach of career pathways for their staff. Steve describes his own career path as a bit of a “lucky dip,” where opportunities arose over the past 30 years, and he was fortunate to seize them. “We want to show support and that we are behind their journey and personal growth,” he says.
Focused on fostering mutual trust and motivation, Rayglass is dedicated to building a strong, collaborative workforce. “The buy-in goes both ways,” says Steve. “We’re investing in them because they’re the future of this company.” With a major plant expansion and leadership training initiatives underway, the company is ensuring its team is equipped to tackle the challenges of growth—together.
Congratulations to the Rayglass team – Nick Mackenzie, Cory Piggales, Paul McDonagh, Jason Jellie, Sami Ikitoelagi and Jesse Webby – on completing their MAST Academy Workplace Training Certificate.