Planning, implementing and evaluating “4 x 4 Training”: A mentoring programme for new trainees in the chemical industry

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this research paper is to describe the planning, implementation and impact of “4 x 4 Training”, a programme for trainees in the chemical industry. Design/methodology/approach In all, 10 trainees, 36 internal trainers, and 10 mentors were involved in the programme, and data were collected by questionnaire assessing the trainees’ global development and the impact of training after six months. Findings On the Box and Off the Road stages were evaluated positively by trainees and mentors as was the challenge. Learning was considered to be bidirectional and trainees continued to improve over time continuing to seek support from their mentors. Practical implications To successfully implement programmes enabling transmission of know-how consideration needs to be given to organizational conditions with senior workers involved in the planning and development from an early stage. Transmission should take place through and during a real context work process with support from the mentor and the work team. Originality/value This paper has an original approach as it developed an innovative mentoring programme for new trainees in the chemical industry.