Boeing Revamps Training Program at 737 Max Factory in Renton

In an effort to enhance quality control on the troubled 737 MAX airliner, Boeing has been implementing a safety "roadmap" required by the FAA following incidents like the Alaska flight. Boeing has increased collaboration with Spirit, with 150 employees now stationed at Spirit's Wichita operation resulting in a significant reduction in defects on fuselages. The company is also revamping its assembly lines and training programs to ensure meticulous attention to detail in the manufacturing process. Boeing has introduced over 300 hours of supplementary training since the pandemic, aiming to simulate factory operations closely and provide hands-on experience to new recruits. The company is focusing on improving training materials and on-the-job training for new hires to prevent errors like the door plug incident that occurred at the Seattle factory. Boeing's senior vice president for quality, Elizabeth Lund, expressed confidence in the safety of airplanes leaving the factory, emphasizing the importance of getting every bolt and rivet right. The aviation industry has faced challenges with the loss of experienced workers, prompting Boeing to rethink its training strategies and increase the involvement of workplace coaches to guide staff. Federal regulators have restricted Boeing's production of the 737 to 38 jets per month, with the company currently producing even fewer. Boeing's vice president and general manager for the 737 program, Katie Ringgold, stresses the company's commitment to stabilizing the factory with safety and quality improvements as their top priority. Boeing's efforts to strengthen quality control and enhance training programs reflect a proactive approach to address past issues and ensure the safety of their aircraft. The company's focus on collaboration, training, and attention to detail underscores their commitment to delivering safe and reliable airplanes to customers. With ongoing improvements and a dedication to quality, Boeing aims to instill confidence in the safety of their aircraft as they navigate challenges in the aviation industry.