NATA's has introduced its new Safety 1st Training Center following a complete rebuild of the programme driven by specific input from association members and users. Redesigned content, developed from the ground up, includes new multimedia, photos and audio, and there is a move away from the one size fits all, single certificate training model to a ratings-based approach that focuses on employee learning and development. A new learning management system (LMS) offers enhanced tools and flexibility, making administration and use simple and efficient, and new resources for trainers and administrators will improve and align on the job training with the content that employees view online.

In the 1990s, as a series of ten VHS video cassettes, NATA transformed ground handling operations and safety training by providing the first standardised employee line service training programme. In 2008, NATA took the next step and moved the programme online, blending interactive e-learning modules, exams, on the job training and practical exams into one custom LMS. The new Safety 1st Training Center is the next evolution in learning and development for aviation business employees and provides companies with the necessary tools and resources to grow their businesses by investing in their teams.

“For nearly eight decades, NATA has contributed significantly to the prosperity of aviation business and has been a catalyst for safety improvement, but we have not done this alone. As with the development of all of our programmes and services, NATA relies on the guidance and expertise of its staff, industry stakeholders and members in the field,” says president Gary Dempsey. “NATA Safety 1st is foremost a member-driven programme, which means aviation businesses can be assured they are getting high quality technical content and accepted best practices in a flexible, efficient and cost-effective format that works for businesses, both small and large.”

In addition to the redesigned content and new LMS, the NATA Safety 1st Training Center shifts the focus from a 'checking the box' compliance mentality to one of true employee development. The updated platform will allow companies to focus training efforts on skills and tasks as needed, rather than requiring full completion of all content within a limited time frame. The new format utilises ratings that signify completion of required training for specific ground handling tasks, such as a wing walking rating or aircraft marshalling rating. As employees earn more ratings, they can achieve even higher certification levels that recognise their increased level of skill and knowledge, with the ultimate goal of achieving the Safety 1st Expert certification level. These changes were developed and tested by the NATA safety committee.

“This new approach to training takes what's been at the core of the Safety 1st programme to a higher level by enhancing training flexibility and comprehensiveness for organisations while providing trainees consistent feedback and motivation for achievement throughout their learning path,” adds managing director of safety and training Michael France.

Since its launch, NATA Safety 1st online has trained over 45,000 individuals and is currently used at over 1,600 locations globally. It is available by annual subscription, allowing businesses to fix their annual training cost and reduce the impact of employee turnover.