The QC Group Perspective » Staffing

New Employee Need More Training?

David DeVowe — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 17:32:44 +0000

Most often the answer to this question is yes. In my experience a new employee never possesses all of the skills the employer desires for their new role. Each job is unique and each candidate holds a unique set of experiences. This can make the search for that “Perfect” candidate somewhat challenging.

When that “Perfect Employee” is finally found and begins work, some areas of the job may not line up exactly with the individual’s skills. In the case where specific training in a quality-related subject is necessary, QC offers select continuing education courses from our catalog of over 90 titles to every placed candidate for the first 12 months on the job. See the Staffing Free Classes Available

GD&T – How Much Should Your Inspector Know?

David DeVowe — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 18:18:01 +0000

Knowledge of the proper use of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) is a must-have for any dimensional inspector that may encounter the use of GD&T symbols. But how much does an inspector really need to know?

Two of the most commonly used geometric symbols are profiles and true position. Yet the application of profile and true position are of the most complex of the GD&T methods. Therefore, a mechanical inspector must have a firm grasp of the application of GD&T – both in the product design as well as how to verify the finished part in the lab.

A GD&T fundamentals course will be effective for most entry-level to intermediate dimensional inspection positions. But for those who consult with design engineers or customers regarding GD&T print definitions, a study of advanced concepts is appropriate.

The QC Group tests inspector and engineering applicants to establish their level of understanding in blueprint reading and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing. This step assures that the person is properly fit to that part of the assignment – eliminating the guess-work for the client.

QC Staffing Now in 8 States

David DeVowe — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 15:57:29 +0000

The QC Staffing group has expanded contract services, source inspection, temp-to-hire, and direct hire Quality resources to 8 states. A significant expansion over past years, The QC Group now serves Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, New York, Vermont, Florida, Texas and California.

Specialized quality professionals are employed in each state to supply manufacturers with local inspection support – when and where it’s needed. This expansion has come as a result of clients requesting the same kind of support we provide in the Midwest to a number of additional states where local resources are needed. Some of the most popular staffing requests are for source inspection and for temp-to-hire resources at a time when manufacturers are hestitant to add direct employees. Because of QC’s vast number of contacts in the quality field, we’ve been able to expand our coverage from the home office in Burnsville, MN.

Qualifying Your CMM Programmer

David DeVowe — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 19:03:47 +0000

CMM Programmers seem to be one of the most difficult quality positions to assess. This is due to the combination of skill sets that make an effective programmer, including strong GD&T comprehension, metrological skills, well-rounded blue print reading, and industry experience. Additionally, given the continual evolution of individual software packages, a CMM Programmer needs to be versed in the most recent version. Even then, how does one know the level of competency a programmer/operator has?
After a series of standard mechanical inspection testing, the candidate should be assessed by a Master Programmer in the CMM language of interest. This includes an in-depth demonstration of the use of equipment along with the proficiency the candidate has in the proper use of the programming software.

A thorough Proficiency Evaluation is performed by a Master CMM Programmer, using a detailed datasheet in the evaluation process. This datasheet helps to extract important detailed information relating to a person’s CMM knowledge and techniques in the following areas: spatial perception, the initial setup (planning) process, part fixturing, general and specific CMM techniques, complex probe setups, knowledge of proper alignment procedures, proper GD&T application, program optimization, report design and even CAD programming capabilities, just to name a few! This formal evaluation contains more than 30 points of CMM knowledge and proficiency. Through this intense screening process – and resulting report – the core of the CMM programmers’ actual level of expertise is revealed, thus equipping you to make the best choice with the highest possible confidence level.

Making that right hiring decision becomes a much easier task.

Good Signs in Quality Staffing

David DeVowe — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 14:12:27 +0000

Our Staffing group has seen a change in interest and demand from manufacturers in the last 2 months. Orders for option-to-hire and direct hires are up as well as the need for on-site product containment services.

While the first 5 months of 2009 were very quiet, it appears that manufacturers have resolved much of the organizational changes in the quality departments of their companies. Now genuine needs are beginning to develop once again and calls to the QC Group have resumed. Staffing activity tends to be a leading indicator of the economy. While the ASA Staffing Statistic has remained flat all year, our experience is that the quality sector has bottomed and is finding new strength. That may be good news for many in need – both employees and companies.