For a decade, Psychological Associates has been working with Harley-Davidson personnel at various levels. Three years ago, we assisted in developing a more effective training program for front-line leaders. We began by conducting interviews of over 100 employees in a variety of positions to gather information that would help us design a custom development program. One facet is Harley-Davidson’s “boot camp.” It’s a three-day coaching skills workshop. Supervisors and union stewards work together to become better front-line leaders. They learn behavioral skills and practical techniques for coaching more effectively both for informal situations on the factory floor and during formal one-to-one meetings.

The workshop incorporates methods that Psychological Associates has been using
for nearly 50 years with a wide variety of companies. These techniques include participative learning to apply newly-acquired behavioral skills. Participants review scenarios that are custom-designed to reflect actual work situations. Then, they practice a real-life coaching situation and get feedback that they can apply immediately on the job.

Front-Line Leaders at Harley-Davidson’s manufacturing facilities in Kansas City, Missouri, Milwaukee, Wisconsin and York, Pennsylvania take part in this development program. They are preparing to lead a workforce that’s making a part of the American Dream.                                                           Other success stories»