Options for Training Employees for Better Heat TreatmentSandy Cioletti
Manager of Education and Training for the Heat Treating Network
The Heat Treating Network is a non-profit, member-driven national association headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio whose mission is to enhance the image, practices, and profitability of the heat treating industry through education/training, technology transfer and problem solving services. With a focus on education, the Heat Treating Network developed different levels of education and training systems specific to the heat treating industry. From entry level training for new hires, to continuing education programs for seasoned personnel, to a formal Heat Treater Apprenticeship; the Heat Treating network has programs and materials to meet the need for developing knowledgeable and skillful employees in the heat treating industry and in-house heat treating departments. Informative educational seminars on specific aspects of heat treating are also available.
Specific training options are arranged by the Network into a five level pyramid.
At the base level are "Entry Level Training" tools, which are various self-study options designed to familiarize newly hired heat treaters with the equipment and processes they work with. Emphasis is on equipment and safety.
The second level includes "Seminars, Workshops, and Videos", designed for short term concentrated study and providing good fundementals of a variety of heat treating topics.
The third level is "Independent Study Courses". These are formal studies in various heat treating topics which the student can take at his own pace. They are provided by ASM International, and are the MEI Home Study materials. The offerings include: "Induction Heating", "HT Quality and Inspection", "Principles of Metallography", "Heat treatment of Steel", "Practical Heat Treating", "Principles of Heat Treating", and "Maintenance of HT Equipment".
The fourth level is "Customized On-Site Training". The Heat Treating Network is very experienced in putting together the people and resources to provide this "just what's needed" approach to training within the workplace.
The top level is the "Apprenticeship Program". This four-year program consists of 576 hours of classroom instruction and 8,000 hours of on-the-job skill training. It meets the requirements of the U.S. Department of Labor - Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training, and of SAE specification ARP-1962. Completion of training entitles certification as a Journeyman of Heat Treating by the State where apprenticed. All arrangements and administrative details are handled by the Heat Treating Network.