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Global Skills Training: More Than Learning a Job

For MTM team members, Global Skills Training (GST) in Japan is much more than a technical learning experience—it is an opportunity to immerse themselves in MTM’s parent company culture, develop new skills, and build lasting relationships.

The GST program invites members from Toyota facilities (including Mazda Toyota Manufacturing) at the Team Leader level to Japan, where they work as a member of Toyota Motor Company (TMC) manufacturing worksites and teams. They gain practical experience in safety, quality, productivity, and teamwork. Team Leaders chosen for the program live in Toyotashi, Japan and work on site at the Tsutsumi Plant for four months.

Selection for the GST Program requires candidates to qualify both through their work performance, physical assessments, and adaptability. Once selected they also learn basic Japanese language and train to endure the increased takt time and a weekly rotation.

MTM’s most recent cohort began their journey with a 25-hour flight to Japan and a quick detour as they located the dormitories they would call home during their training. Participants completed a month-long orientation at Toyota’s Global Production Center, where they learned Toyota fundamentals through hands-on training and experiential learning activities. They also visited the Toyota Museum, where they gained a deeper appreciation for the company’s history, including the original Toyoda Automatic Loom Works that laid the foundation for the organization we know today.

After orientation, the group transitioned to the Tsutsumi Plant, where they worked alongside team members on both day and night shifts. From installing taillights and sunroofs to working with tires and crash boxes, they quickly became part of the Tsutsumi plant’s production process, assembling more than 500 vehicles per shift in some roles. Just as important as the work itself was Toyota’s commitment to safety and well-being. Team members experienced firsthand the company’s focus on ergonomics, hydration, health checks, and continuous support from mentors, who regularly checked in to ensure trainees were adapting both physically and mentally. This exemplifies the spirit of Mendomi, or treating each other with care and concern, which is one of MTM’s core principles.

The experience also provided a front-row seat to the philosophy of Kaizen, or continuous improvement. Participants saw how problems were addressed in real time and learned valuable lessons they now share with new hires through safety and danger-prevention training programs.

“This experience polishes your knowledge and shows you a different perspective,” explained one participant. “You see teamwork at the next level.”

Outside of work, the team embraced Japanese culture. They explored Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, visited Mazda Hiroshima Plant headquarters, attended festivals, admired cherry blossoms, and bonded with coworkers and their families. From riding the bullet train to visiting Miyajima Island and enjoying local restaurants, the experience created lifelong memories and friendships. One memorable highlight for most was the food, including convenience store egg salad sandwiches.

“It really changed our view of our personal lives as well,” shared one MTM team member. “We appreciated a lot of what we saw and learned in Japan, but we also learned to appreciate home.”

Many participants returned with a renewed sense of gratitude and perspective. Experiencing Japan’s culture of respect, cleanliness, and care for others reshaped how they work and view daily life. While adapting to Japan brought culture shock, several said returning home brought its own adjustment. Above all, the experience reinforced lessons in teamwork, continuous improvement, and caring for people – principles that continue to influence their work and personal lives today.