Ford Ups Training Programs for F-150 Production
In preparation for the rollout of the new Ford F-150, the company has been implementing an intensive training program to prepare skilled trades and production workers at its Kansas City Assembly Plant.
The skilled trades program –tested at Dearborn Truck Plant – includes more than 400 hours of in-class and hands-on courses training workers to effectively operate the latest in advanced assembly equipment.
It covers everything from installing and configuring new equipment for the production line to constructing the truck’s advanced electrical control system.
A unique element of the overall program is the “train the trainer” model, in which the workers become subject matter experts on the new equipment, enabling them to train the crew they work with on a daily basis.
The production process and training includes:
- New press lines to help stamp four different types of aluminum alloys that assist with light-weighting the vehicle cab and box
- New hydroforming lines to use fluid pressure to form metal tubes into structurally strong support rails
- New chemical and heat treat area for corrosion resistance and material hardening results in stronger, more durable materials Implementation of a closed-loop aluminum recycling system process in which all aluminum assembly scrap is collected and sorted so it can be used again in new F-150s – a process that saves energy and lowers cost
- Investment in 500 new robots in the all-new body shops to conduct state-of-the-art joining technology, resulting in a tougher, more durable truck
- Updated paint shops with dirt detection technology and increased automation for more durable paint application
Category: Featured, General Update, Training
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