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Forma Arauco Academy: Training from Scratch to Lead in the Forestry Industry

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In the context of industrial development and the need for skilled labor, Forestal Arauco has consolidated professional training with the Forma Arauco Academy, whose objective is to prepare high-potential talents to provide real job opportunities in various key areas of the forestry sector.

Ignacio Irigoyen, Training Manager at Forestal Arauco, highlighted the importance of this initiative, which seeks to address the sector's demands and offer concrete job opportunities to the community. "At the Academy, we train people eager to explore the forestry world as a real career option. We look for individuals with the right attitude and potential to excel in their performance, providing them with top instructors, diverse machinery, and cutting-edge technology, including custom-made simulators tailored to our company's reality. In short, we’ve invested great passion and resources to train men and women who will help us achieve safe, productive, sustainable operations that respect local communities," he explained.

Training from Scratch and Added Value

One of the most notable aspects of the initiative is its inclusivity. Unlike other hiring processes that prioritize prior experience, the Forestry Academy offers training to people with no background in the field. "Through an initiative we call Early Training, we’ve incorporated many inexperienced individuals, which is an extremely relevant added value. The men and women who take this opportunity know they are doing it for themselves and understand that if their performance is good, they have a strong chance of being hired," he noted.

This process has allowed Forestal Arauco to expand its reach and identify new talents in the regions, contributing to an increase in skilled labor in the forestry sector and reducing the practice of hiring workers from other companies. Additionally, it has encouraged an influx of younger workers, which will be key for generational workforce renewal.

Numbers That Reflect Impact

Since its inception, Forestal Arauco has trained over 1,500 people in key areas such as mechanized harvesting and road construction. Of this total, around 30% had no prior experience, demonstrating the company’s commitment to training and developing human capital in the regions.

Irigoyen explained that the training process varies in duration, ranging from 2 to 4 months, depending on the role and the participants' prior experience. "For example, if someone already has some skills or minimal experience, their training time can be reduced, as we focus on addressing gaps identified in the practical assessment conducted at the start of the process. The key is that our program is designed to be relevant and adapt to the real needs of the business," he detailed.

Innovation and Technology in Training

One of the most significant innovations Forestal Arauco has implemented in this program is the use of high-tech simulators. Through a local project developed with the company Qualitat, simulators replicating real working conditions at Forestal Arauco have been created.

These simulators, which include machinery and maintenance processes, allow students to gain experience in a safe, controlled environment before operating in the field. "We’ve worked on this project for five years, achieving a simulation system highly relevant to our reality," added Irigoyen.

The training process combines a solid theoretical foundation with hands-on fieldwork. Participants first receive training on regulatory, safety, and environmental aspects—what Forestal Arauco calls the "Arauco Seal," the company’s distinctive mark. Then, they move on to simulation and practical training with real machinery.

This methodology includes constant evaluations and individual assessments to ensure each participant meets the required standards. "We make sure to measure performance indicators (KPIs) and adjust learning processes according to each person’s needs," emphasized Irigoyen.

Benefits for the Region and the Industry

The training not only benefits program participants but also has a positive impact on various regions and the forestry industry. By developing highly skilled professionals, local economic growth is strengthened, and the increasing demand for skilled labor in this key sector for the country is met.

Additionally, the implementation of advanced technology, such as simulators, positions Forestal Arauco as a leader in innovation and professional training in the forestry sector.

In the words of Ignacio Irigoyen: "We’ve succeeded in creating real job opportunities in a beautiful, renewable industry that will last forever, developing talent from scratch and strengthening the sector with quality professionals. It’s a win-win for everyone."

The Future of the Program

Looking ahead, Forestal Arauco aims to continue refining its training processes and incorporating new technologies to make training even more effective. The potential integration of artificial intelligence into simulators is one of the upcoming projects, according to Irigoyen.