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Spirit AeroSystems - McAlester

Tuesday, October 05, 2021

"Since 2006, every hourly employee hired at Spirit AeroSystems has completed the WorkKeys and Career Readiness Certificate application hiring process." Debbie Dalton, Human Resource Manager

"We have hired from out-of-state, but local employees stay in McAlester because this is home and family is here. That creates success all-around.
"Kiamichi Technology Center is the primary site for KeyTrain and WorkKeys assessments. KTC is an easy-to-work-with partner."

Since 1964: From North American Rockwell to Spirit AeroSystems

The company opened as North American in 1964. Since then, the name changed to North American Rockwell, Rockwell International, and then The Boeing Company. In June 2005 we became Spirit AeroSystems.

The McAlester facility has three shifts, operating 24 hours a day, five days a week. The company manufactures machined parts and detail fabrication parts that are included in larger assemblies and sub-assemblies for companies such as Boeing and Gulfstream.

Spirit AeroSystems hires locally.

Since January 2006, employment has increased by 57 percent, now employing 300 people. The WorkKeys/Career Readiness Certificate system has provided a qualified applicant pool that allows the site to support the increase in production rates.

WorkKeys assessments provide the company an applicant pool with core skills to qualify for entry level positions. By using WorkKeys in the three areas that include reading, locating information, and math, the company has been able to hire from a qualified applicant pool.

Three positions have been WorkKeys profiled.

  1. Structures installation mechanic (aircraft assembler)
  2. Logistical support technician
  3. Machine fabricator technician

WorkKeys is the first step to the next level.

Employees who enter the company through WorkKeys have opportunities to move into other positions. Many employees who move into other jobs take classes at Kiamichi Technology Center to qualify. In addition to KTC, assessments are offered at the Workforce Oklahoma offices in McAlester, Oklahoma, as well as other sites.

Reduces training costs, increases productivity.

While McAlester's turnover rate due to job performance is typically less than one percent, the WorkKeys assessment system contributes to reduce training costs, increasing productivity for our overall company success.

Last Modified on Feb 13, 2023
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