The Raymond Corp has opened a state-of-the-art training facility for its dealers and customers.

The 8,000 square feet (720 square metres) Raymond Learning Centre is in the centre of the company's headquarters in Greene, New York. The centre has five classrooms, a truck lab space and two breakout rooms that overlook the factory floor.

"Dealers and customers can look out and actually see their trucks being manufactured," said Kathy Adams, Raymond's manager of information & training services. "Our classes cover topics such as new products and their benefits, lift truck operator and safety training, how to maximize the efficiency of lift trucks, and how to service lift truck fleets. Plus, the intimate class size of about 10 students gives us the chance to learn from our customers."

The classrooms use educational technologies including large-screen displays, document cameras, and high-speed internet connections. Ergonomic furniture is used in the learning spaces.

The centre's seven full-time employees include instructors specialising in technical topics and product applications. The centre intends to train 300 to 700 people a year in classes designed to maximise efficient, effective learning.

"Our primary objective is to help customers maintain a high level of performance," Ms Adams said. "We know customers aren't just buying lift trucks, they're investing in solutions to real business objectives."