Coleman Taylor Transmission History
As a Coleman-Taylor partner, Jimmy Newman is taking advantage of a unique opportunity that's part of an integrated system of training and opportunities available to the company's employees. Newman remembers his first day on the job at the age of 19, when he was asked to drop a driveshaft. Newman said, "Tell me what a driveshaft is and I'll drop it."
Larry Coleman says Newman's rise in the company is not unusual. His policy is to fill entry-level positions and then promote from within. Applicants are tested to identify individuals who can learn the technical and people skills needed to fulfill the company's objectives. The company has 130 employees, all of whom are expected to maintain and enhance their skills through continuous training.
The Coleman-Taylor training program consists of a number of resources. Technical skills are honed and training materials bought from a number of industry educators. In addition, employees receive what Coleman calls "People Building" training, which motivates employees to develop a teamwork approach to all aspects of the business.
As a reward for achieving excellence within the company, Coleman offers employees the chance to become center partners. Recognizing the value of having owner-managers at every location, the company allows center managers to buy an interest in their shop and become partners with Coleman in the venture.
As a partner, Newman is responsible for operating the business and for keeping his staff trained. He's quick to point out that two of his longtime rebuilders, Ron Buechel and Pete Hofstetter, are ready for consideration when partnership opportunities become available.
Coleman praises the husband-and-wife team heading the St. Charles operation, saying: "The key to the success of that location is that both Jimmy and his wife, Pam, are just excellent people, both in character and from a professional standpoint."
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