At NATA, becoming a Lead Assessor is no small feat. It requires expertise, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills, all of which are put to the test during the final stage of training—the Role of the Lead Assessor (ROLA) workshop.
This intensive three-day program, held in Sydney, is where aspiring Lead Assessors consolidate their knowledge, refine their skills, and prepare to take on the responsibilities that come with leading accreditation assessments.
The ROLA workshop is designed to ensure that trainees not only understand NATA’s accreditation processes, but can also apply them effectively in real-world scenarios.
“ROLA helped me really consolidate my understanding of NATA’s accreditation requirements and my role in the assessment process,” says Lakshmi Surendran, Accreditation Specialist at NATA.
John Ta, another Accreditation Specialist, found the program’s interactive elements particularly valuable.
“The open discussions with the Lead Assessor were particularly impactful as they broadened my perspective on various aspects,” he shares.
The program covers a wide range of topics critical to the Lead Assessor position. Trainees dive deep into the details of applying specific standards to facilities, conducting assessments, managing the human relations aspects of the process, and closing out assessments. Through role plays, group discussions, and practical scenarios, participants engage in hands-on learning designed to mirror the challenges they may face in the field.
John notes that feedback during the course was transformative for his work:
“I received valuable feedback on my presentation skills during the course, and I am now actively applying this feedback to improve in every assessment.”
The culmination of this training is a rigorous two-hour exam designed to test the readiness of each participant.
An addition to the training, participants in a recent class had an exclusive visit to the National Measurement Institute (NMI).
As Australia’s peak body for measurement, NMI offers a behind-the-scenes look at the tools and technologies that drive precision in measurement. For Lakshmi, this was a key highlight:
“Visiting NMI was a privilege. The high-voltage lab, with its 500kV test equipment, was truly impressive. Seeing this kind of technology in action gave me a deeper appreciation for the scale of our accreditation work.”
The NMI visit provided an invaluable learning experience, where trainees witness how the standards they’ve studied are applied in world-class facilities. It’s a chance to see the intersection of theory and practice in the scientific community, reinforcing the importance of rigorous, accurate assessments.
Tye training is challenging but also incredibly rewarding. Participants leave with a heightened sense of confidence, a stronger understanding of their role.
The ROLA workshop is a crucial component in shaping the future of NATA’s Lead Assessors, ensuring that they are equipped with the skills and knowledge to ultimately excel in the vital role of a Lead Assessor.
To learn more contact NATA on 1 800 621 666 or at corpcomm@nata.com.au