Organizational Development & Strategic Initiative Award

Recognizes organizations that have developed initiatives and programs that have enhanced or changed organization-wide strategic thinking in the field of human resources.

Finalist: New Flyer Industries

New Flyer is the leading manufacturer of heavy-duty buses in the U.s. and Canada. Offering the broadest line of transit vehicles, they have secured their strong position by providing reliable transportation solutions that meet the needs of today while anticipating the needs of tomorrow.

In 2009 it recognized there was a need to create a strong foundation and structure for employee development that aligned with and supported the organization's vision and strategic plan. "New Flyer Institute" was created, it strives for excellence by including the following components: Foundational Development (orientation and core skills);  Employee Development (ongoing skill development and training plans); Systems Development (database to support the ability of tracking all training activities); Leadership Development (standardized leadership programs, consistent content, linked to internal needs and organizational strategies, and individual leadership developmental needs); and Manufacturing Development (training plans, on-the-job training programs, manufacturing training labs and work simulations).

Programming is delivered through e-learning, training webinars, on-the-job and classroom training. At every level of the organization, specific communication strategies were put in place to make sure managers and employees understood how the various training programs were contributing to the overall objectives of the company and ultimately positively impacting the long term prospects for the organization. 

The reach of the New Flyer Institute continues to expand, with training programs now being developed so that customers can reap the benefits of a well rounded training and development program. This program may never have a "final outcome" as it has been created to support continuous development of the organization. New Flyer Institute is a supporting structure for the all organizational developmental initiatives.

 2013 Sponsor: Corporate People Responsibility Ltd.