From the production line to a line of code: the SEAT training challenge
Developing employees is always a priority for SEAT, which created an intensive training programme to turn 5 production line workers into software developers in just 4 months.
Training, labour and industrial renewal are key to meeting the challenges of the digital age, and just as important is developing the company’s internal talent. This led to the launch of a new SEAT training project, which in only 4 months turned 5 production line workers into junior programmers who went on to became part of the SEAT:CODE software development centre.
“What we aim to do is show that we are capable of transforming people who are already working at SEAT, changing their role, their lives and their future through technology so that they can contribute in a different scenario,” explains a proud Carlos Buenosvinos, Head of SEAT:CODE.
An evolving career path
“I entered SEAT nine years ago through the Apprentice School and have been carrying out different functions on the production line,” says Óscar Orellana who fits belts and airbag modules at workshop 8 of SEAT’s Martorell plant.
Meanwhile, Adrián Hitos is a worker in the electronics laboratory. He smiles with satisfaction as he says: “I’m starting a new course both personally and professionally. I’m proud because I’ve been chosen. I’ve always dreamed of being a programmer, so when I heard about the program I didn’t hesitate. It was my chance.”
Passion for technology
The requirements to apply? Candidates had to be SEAT employees, have an interest in programming and a certain level of English. Afterwards, a thorough selection process began. “What we were looking for is what we always require at SEAT:CODE: a proactive attitude. What we mainly look for is a glint in their eyes when they talk about technology, about changing the future,” adds Buenosvinos.
During the interviews, one of the candidates said he had designed his own telemetry system and connected it to some cars he needed to repair, while another had set up an independent WIFI system to geolocate cars in the workshops. That’s how Miguel Ángel Pablos, Óscar Lara and Pablo Pardo also came to be selected.
An intensive programme
The intensive course was run in collaboration with the GeeksHubs Academy: 16 weeks during which specialised IT teachers trained the candidates in the necessary software knowledge – both front-end (user interface) and back-end (administrator mode).
“We’re experiencing an unprecedented transformation, and to deal with it at SEAT we think that internal talent is the best, as they are very committed and already know the company’s culture,” explains Ismael Lara, Head of Culture, Learning & Development at SEAT. “We firmly believe that the people going through this process can increase their potential positive impact on SEAT,” adds Buenosvinos.
SEAT:CODE
The last 3 weeks of the training took place at SEAT:CODE. “It was very intense, with a lot of work to do and very fast: a tough but achievable challenge,” says Adrián. “A very exciting few weeks, every day we learned something new and we’ve become a team, supporting each other,” agrees Óscar.
All the candidates on the course had to present an individual final project to a jury. For Ismael Lara, the expected learning curve was exceeded by some distance. “They’re fully prepared to work as junior developers, on SEAT Mó applications or software to optimise the company’s logistics.” Becoming part of the SEAT:CODE team is a sure sign of their success.
A training path to repeat
“This programme is just the beginning of a training path that we are going to follow for years to come,” promises Lara. “The potential of these new roles within the company is extremely high. “If we commit to more employees going through this process, it will generate a major benefit, and with other companies embracing this opportunity, the result will be a highly competitive environment,” concludes Carlos Buenosvinos.
Source: SEAT S.A.