Quality and EHS Manager, Laura Moule from SPX Flow Rail Systems, has recently received CQI and IRCA accreditation following the successful completion of the Practitioner Certificate in Quality Management. The Certificate, which consists of eight courses, enables Quality Management practitioners develop their understanding of management level quality topics. And, how this knowledge applies to their role within their own organisation.
We caught up with Laura to ask her how her training has empowered her in her role, her thoughts on distance learning and what advice she’d give to others considering studying quality management courses with rove.
As a Quality and EHS Manager at SPX Rail Systems, an organisation which provides the railway sector with highly effective solutions that improve network efficiency and protect lives, Laura told us that no two days are the same. And, she has a lot of freedom and support to explore changes and improve the way of working.
Laura’s typical day starts with a management meeting to discuss any important business from the day before – or any expected challenges for the day ahead. Following this, the management team perform a walk of the factory floor.
“This enables us to speak with each cell about their SQDCP performance, get a general feel of how people are – and if we need to action any support.
“From there it can be anything from carrying out internal or external audits, following up on non-conformities and warranties, arranging training for personnel, conducting risk assessment and management of change,” explained Laura.
I WANTED TO STUDY THESE COURSES TO GUARANTEE BEST PRACTICE
Laura had been working in quality for a number of years, when she decided to study the Practitioner Certificate in Quality Management. As her career progressed and she took on the role of quality manager she wanted to ensure she was bringing best practice with her.
“Studying the Practitioner course cemented my knowledge, validating that the work I was doing was correct – while teaching me new things along the way,” said Laura.
“It has made me feel more confident, in the knowledge, that I am working to industry standards and best practice.”
DISTANCE LEARNING ENABLED ME TO GET A WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Laura found studying via distance learning allowed her to balance her studies with her other responsibilities.
“Distance learning allowed me to study around my other commitments. My free time may have been over a weekend or of a mid-week afternoon, I wasn’t tied to studying for eight hours a day, five days a week.”
RESPONSIVENESS OF TEAM MEANT I COULD CONCENTRATE ON MY STUDIES
An element which made the course more enjoyable for Laura was the quick feedback and responsiveness of her tutor, and staff, at rove.
“Whenever I had a question or request for support, it was actioned quickly and clearly. This allowed me to get straight back to studying,” said Laura.
ALLOCATING TIME TO WORK EACH WEEK HELPED WITH MOTIVATION
Sometimes Laura found it difficult to self-motivate and dedicate the time to the course. However, once she got in to a routine of blocking out time each week to study, this improved.
IT FELT EMPOWERING COMPLETING EACH COURSE AND APPLYING THIS TO MY ROLE
Laura’s advice to others considering CQI and IRCA accredited Quality Management courses, is to ‘go for it!’
“It’s an empowering and satisfying feeling when completing the courses and then being able to apply it straight into the workplace.”
LAURA’S MANAGER SAYS COURSES HAVE AIDED HER PROGRESSION
Neil Hughes, EMEA Operations Lead – Hydraulics at SPX Rail Systems, said “The training undertaken by Laura has proven to cement Laura`s existing quality knowledge and understanding – as well as providing opportunities for new learning.
“Throughout the three years her confidence has grown, which has enabled Laura to progress within the organisation and continue to be a valued member of the leadership team.”
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CQI AND IRCA QUALITY MANAGEMENT COURSES
For over 12 years rove has supported quality management professionals develop and progress in their careers. Since 2016, its experienced, knowledgeable and friendly team has supported over 500 learners, from over 200 companies – who have completed more than 750 quality management courses. It is also very proud of its 100% pass rate. You can find out about the CQI and IRCA Foundation, Practitioner and Professional quality management courses here.