#Japan #Aichi #Nikken Total Sourcing #Training Center #Chiryu

New Horizons in Automotive Training: Nikken Total Sourcing's Latest Initiative

In a significant development aimed at addressing the evolving demands of the automotive industry, Nikken Total Sourcing, a leading human resources solutions provider in Japan, has established two specialized training centers in Chiryu City, Aichi Prefecture. These centers include the Chiryu Technical Center, focused on automotive manufacturing processes, and the Tokai Welding Technical Center, which marks Nikken’s first venture into welding training. Both facilities are set to commence operations on July 10, 2025.

Facing Industry Challenges

The automotive sector is undergoing a transformational phase, with electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving technologies reshaping traditional manufacturing processes. OEMs are grappling with rapid fluctuations in market demand and the need for diversified production techniques. In this context, workforce flexibility and efficiency are paramount. Companies are increasingly required to adapt to these changes with a slim workforce, emphasizing the necessity for strategic personnel placement across various stages of production.

The Chiryu Technical Center has been created to cater to these industry needs, providing foundational training across key manufacturing processes such as assembly, painting, logistics, and inspection. The center aims to develop a curriculum tailored to specific roles within the automotive production line, thereby nurturing skilled professionals equipped to meet employer expectations. This initiative not only helps workers gain relevant job skills but also encourages a more favorable work environment based on individual capabilities and career aspirations.

Addressing the Welding Workforce Shortage

As the manufacturing landscape shifts, the demand for skilled welders has surged, while the number of professionals in this field has been steadily declining. Although advancements in robotic automated welding significantly enhance production efficiency, many industries still heavily rely on the expertise of human welders for complex tasks, especially in small and medium-sized enterprises that face hurdles integrating costly robotic solutions.

According to a survey conducted by the Aichi Labor Bureau, the job openings for metal processing and welding inspectors have an exceptionally high rate of 4.39 times the number of available candidates. This disparity highlights a pronounced shortage of skilled welders in the labor market. Furthermore, the challenging working conditions and the steep learning curve associated with mastering welding techniques contribute to high turnover rates — complicating both the recruitment and retention efforts of companies looking to stabilize their workforce.

Responding to these challenges, the Tokai Welding Technical Center will offer specialized courses that cover everything from basic welding principles to semi-automatic welding and TIG welding practice. This approach is designed to cultivate immediately deployable talent, offering customized training aligned with real-world industrial needs, thereby reinforcing the labor backbone of the manufacturing sector.

Future Sustainability and Support

Both new centers epitomize Nikken Total Sourcing's commitment to fostering a skilled workforce tailored for the ongoing evolution of the automotive and manufacturing industries. By facilitating comprehensive training from workforce education to post-employment support, the company aims to create a sustainable future for the industry while contributing to its continuous growth.

About Nikken Total Sourcing

Founded in April 1981, Nikken Total Sourcing is recognized as a 'Human Capital Creator', transcending industry and occupational boundaries to harness diverse talents as vital human capital. The company's mission is to unlock the potential of individuals, businesses, and society through innovative human resource solutions.

Company Background

• - Established: April 1981
• - Headquarters: Ota City, Tokyo
• - CEO: Koji Shimizu
• - Business Services: Comprehensive human resource services including staffing, recruiting, and business outsourcing.