Enhancing New Graduate Engineer Training with amoibe OJT Program

In a significant step towards improving the training of new graduate engineers in a remote work environment, Itochu Techno Solutions Co., Ltd. has officially announced the adoption of the "amoibe OJT" program. This initiative is aimed at addressing the challenges faced in nurturing new talent during the ongoing shift to remote working paradigms, particularly in fields requiring practical skills. The amoibe OJT program, developed by amoibe Inc., headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, offers specialized courses for development engineers and infrastructure engineers, focusing on Java and AWS, respectively.

Structural Challenges in Training New Graduates

As remote work surfaces as a new norm post-COVID-19, the training landscape has encountered significant structural issues. Many organizations find themselves grappling with crucial gaps in on-the-job training (OJT), evidenced by recent observations that new hires feel hesitant to seek advice and experienced employees struggle to initiate conversations.

Itochu Techno Solutions’ wide-area and social infrastructure business group recognized these challenges firsthand. In an office setting, it would be commonplace for a senior employee to casually inquire if a junior was available for a quick chat. However, in a remote environment, this natural flow of communication diminishes. The lack of face-to-face interactions has resulted in reduced opportunities for valuable guidance, leaving new employees to fend for themselves. Though existing e-learning programs can provide knowledge, they often fail at equipping new hires with practical skills necessary for real-world projects.

To combat these issues, the company trialed the amoibe OJT program at its Nagoya facility, eventually deciding to roll it out across the entire organization for new graduate engineers slated to join in 2025. This program offers participants a secure environment to engage in simulated project experiences, isolating them from the pressures of actual work tasks.

Positive Reception of the amoibe OJT Program

The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many stating that the experience was indistinguishable from real projects. The immersion in project-based activities allowed them to build confidence and become ready to contribute effectively upon placement. In stark contrast to traditional training methods centered around passive knowledge absorption, the program prioritizes hands-on experience with a focus on collaboration and practical applications.

Cultivating Self-Reliance

Moreover, an emergent trend observed among participants is their increased initiative in problem-solving. Many have adopted a self-reliant approach, utilizing AI tools to research answers and overcome challenges independently. This proactive behavior not only boosts individual confidence but also enhances the overall efficiency and speed at which new hires can adapt and contribute.

Establishing Common Language in the Workplace

With the amoibe OJT methodologies becoming a shared vernacular within the organization, there’s optimism that this approach will streamline communication among teams. The expectation is that such common ground will significantly reduce the communication costs in project execution.

Insights from Companies' Leadership

Masaki Sakaeno, the Director of the Wide Area and Social Infrastructure Business Planning Headquarters at Itochu Techno Solutions, expressed that the greatest takeaway from implementing the OJT was the ability for participants to master project conduct in a short timeframe, even within a separated environment from real business operations. The company aims to expand the shared language cultivated through this training to the entire organization moving forward.

Hayato Shinjo, CEO of amoibe Inc., also commented on the collaboration, emphasizing the honor in supporting a large and historically significant company like Itochu Techno Solutions in facing its training challenges. He is hopeful that this collaboration can serve as a model for other companies looking to innovate their human resource development practices.

Explore More: Detailed Case Study Insights

For a comprehensive look into the context of this initiative, the changes brought about through the OJT, and future prospects, an interview with Masaki Sakaeno and other key figures has been published. This detailed case study provides invaluable insights into innovative training approaches in the corporate sector. Read the full interview here.

About Itochu Techno Solutions Co., Ltd.

Itochu Techno Solutions Co., Ltd. (CTC) acts as the IT core enterprise within the Itochu Corporation Group. It provides a wide range of IT services, including system integration, cloud solutions, security, and artificial intelligence, tailored for various industries, ranging from public and social infrastructure to finance, manufacturing, and distribution. As of April 1, 2025, CTC employs approximately 5,983 personnel. For more information, please visit CTC's website.

About amoibe Inc.

Founded in January 2014 and based in Shibuya, Tokyo, amoibe Inc. focuses on innovative training solutions tailored for the digital age. Under the leadership of CEO Hayato Shinjo, the company aims to drive transformative changes in workforce training. More information is available on amoibe's website.