New facility takes associate development and customer focus to the next level
It’s been months in the making, but it’s finally here. Lowe’s University Training Center, also known as Lowe’s U, is open and providing associates with the skills, knowledge, insight and development they need to deliver second-to-none service to customers.
“We started with a lofty goal,” said Lowe’s Executive Vice President of Human Resources Jennifer Weber. “Understanding that associate development is critical to every aspect of our business, we wanted to revolutionize the way we train associates in order to bring about definite and measurable, positive impacts on associate development, their success and ultimately customer experience.”
By design, the facility and the programs offered focus on every aspect of Lowe’s corporate strategy. It should come as no surprise that Continued Learning is a big part of that strategy. Lowe’s University provides associates with access to e-Learning opportunities, videos, coaching and regular interaction with supervisors and senior leaders, fostering a customer-driven company culture, which translates into exceptional customer service.
Currently, the Store Manager Leadership Experience Program and District Manager Leadership Experience Program are offered in the Lowe’s U facility. During 2020, Lowe’s U will welcome new-to-role assistant store managers and new-to-role district and store managers to the facility for development courses. Programs and course offerings are expected to expand to various associate groups in the upcoming years.
The Lowe’s U facility is 15,000 square feet with webinar rooms fitted with audio/visual equipment so instructors and leaders can provide informational training all over the world. Greenscreens in the space make virtual reality an option, so associates can experience customer engagement simulations, product tutorials and more. Plus, adaptable classroom space equipped with tablet connections makes it easy to provide the most effective space for every size class.
“Lowe’s U is truly a game-changer for the company,” said Lowe’s Executive Vice President of Stores Joe McFarland. “To date, more than 750 store and district managers have been trained through leadership experience courses, and we estimate that more than 1,350 store and district managers will be trained by the end of the year. When you think about all of this, the facility and programs are about our commitment to our customers and learning how we can create long-lasting relationships with them.”
Click through the photo gallery below to see more photos of the Lowe’s U space:
