Training fosters skills development, motivates employees and creates a sense of belonging to an organization. It’s a crucial element in improving team performance and reaching new heights.
Vince Nikolov, Head Trainer at our London Heathrow (LHR) station, has been part of the Aeromag family for nine (9) years. He is responsible for the theoretical and practical training of LHR employees, keeping records and preparing for audits, as well as ensuring that training is completed and followed.
Training is crucial for Aeromag. It plays an essential role in the efficiency and safety of operations. It also helps to ensure quality service for airlines, as well as dealing with human factors. With a rigorous and comprehensive program, we can ensure consistency of training across our network. All seasonal employees working in operations must complete the same training every year. Not only are they taught how to perform tasks safely and efficiently, but also how weather conditions affect operations, how to spot anomalies and even basic aviation principles.
What makes an outstanding trainer? Leadership, patience and excellent presentation skills. It’s important to lead by example and have the ability to adapt to staff’s learning style and pace.
Challenges and Successes
Seasonal work represents a training challenge because of the short time available to train employees. Some candidates have no aviation experience, therefore a comprehensive training program is essential. Ensuring that the material is understood and respected by all employees is another challenge. Trainers need to always be vigilant, and repeat training when necessary. Case studies and interactive training help to absorb information and maintain staff attention throughout the course.
“One of the projects we’re proud of at LHR is the introduction of the T1-T4 trainer, whose name is inspired by R2-D2 and C3PO from Star Wars. It’s a model aircraft that allows our staff to practice spray patterns and understand the effects of the different types of fluids that can coat aircraft surfaces.”
Cold temperatures don’t persist for long at LHR, but that doesn’t mean the teams aren’t busy! T1-T4 helps to prepare the teams on calm days.