Utilizing Talents for Emergency Management or Crisis Management
Toyota's Facility Support Section: Pioneering Condition-Based Maintenance and Independent-Minded Leadership
Hirotoshi Hikota, a manager in the Facility Support Section of Toyota Motor Corporation, is leading a revolution in power supply maintenance and team development. Since taking over the section in 2012, Hikota has been transforming the maintenance systems, creating a unique approach that is seldom found in power facility departments at other Japanese companies.
The Facility Support Section has brought service and repair work on large-scale power supply facilities in-house, thanks to Hikota's acquisition of many specialized skills and qualifications. This in-house capability has allowed the team to adopt the cutting-edge condition-based maintenance approach, where facilities are constantly monitored with sensors to predict and address potential issues before they cause breakdowns.
Hikota's vision extends beyond technical expertise. He is focused on fostering independent-minded individuals within his team. Building mutual trust, acknowledging the individual, giving them the authority to make decisions, and allowing them to gain experience acting on their own are key to this approach. This method of instruction encourages team members to think, decide, and act on their own, nurturing a culture of self-reliance and innovation.
In addition to its role in maintenance, the Facility Support Section serves as a power supply rescue team, helping Toyota-affiliated companies since the 1990s. The team can supply 400 kilowatts of power with a single truck or 1,200 kilowatts with three, using equipment such as power supply trucks, fuel tanker trucks, generators, and aerial work platform trucks.
Hikota's team has provided power supply assistance in emergencies, supporting Toyota-affiliated companies and local energy suppliers during disaster relief efforts. This includes their work with the Japan Disaster Relief Team in 2016, ensuring power supply during disaster relief efforts.
The Facility Support Section's Rescue Team includes members from the five Power Supply & Maintenance Sections. The team conducts regular practical drills for disaster response, ensuring they are always ready to respond quickly and effectively when needed.
Hikota continues working to nurture the independent-minded individuals who will carry his vision forward. His goal is to create an environment where every individual can continue striving for growth. This commitment to personal and professional development is a testament to Hikota's leadership and the innovative culture he is fostering within the Facility Support Section.
