LEEA Learning and Development Committee Spotlight: Raheel Saleem
LEEA’s training reaches lifting professionals all over the world, and the Learning and Development (L&D) Committee draws on voices from across that global community. Raheel Saleem has spent five years on the committee, bringing a perspective from Pakistan, where attitudes to lifting safety and training have changed significantly in recent years. Here he reflects on the initiatives he’s helped shape and the role LEEA has played in raising standards in his country.
What made you join the L&D Committee?
I’ve always wanted my work to add value and do good for the industry. The L&D Committee is the right platform to contribute, and to bring suggestions and feedback to the right people.
How does the L&D Committee support LEEA Members?
Over the past five years, many LEEA initiatives have been discussed and finalised with feedback from L&D Committee Members. These include new course modules, ATS and LTP, all of which ultimately help Members around the globe.
What’s been a highlight since joining the committee?
Five years on, the committee have given me a front-row seat to the evolution of learning in our industry. My greatest highlight has been the opportunity to give back by contributing to the new LEEA Foundation course module.
What trends are you seeing in how people access and receive training?
In Pakistan, there has been a big change in the past few years. The industry has seen many accidents, even at large multinational companies, caused by a lack of training and unsafe practices. Now, almost all reputable companies take the training of their workers very seriously, in line with the regulatory requirements of the Factories Act 1934.
People have become more aware of safety and are adopting safe industrial practices. LEEA has played a big role in this change, with LEEA-certified trainers delivering training across the country.
What’s the committee working on at the moment that Members should keep an eye on?
In my view, one of the most important tasks currently being discussed is improving the TEAM Card refresher programme. The aim is to better assess individuals for CPD, with a particular focus on assessing their practical, on-the-job experience and training.
What would you say to someone thinking about joining a LEEA committee?
It’s an excellent platform where Members can give feedback that is genuinely valued. The L&D Committee is doing a very good job of bringing innovation and improvement to the lifting industry around the world.
Passionate about training that works in the real world?
The Learning and Development Committee helps make sure LEEA’s training is practical, relevant and focused on what people need to be competent in their jobs. Bring your experience to the table by contacting: Ross.Moloney@leeaint.com.
