OPaL Receives Prestigious ISTD Trainers Award 2025

• 20-04-2025

We are thrilled to share that OPaL’s commitment to learning and development was recognised at the ISTD Trainers Award 2025. On April 20th, 2025, the Vadodara Chapter of the Indian Society of Training and Development (ISTD) honoured OPaL with the 2nd Runner-up Award in the Corporate Category for our innovative online learning initiative. This prestigious recognition was part of the ISTD Trainers Award (ITA) 2025, which brought together over 65 Learning & Development professionals from across India.

At OPaL, we firmly believe that genuine employee development is not reliant on substantial budgets, but rather on a steadfast commitment to growth. In a year defined by operational challenges and constrained financial resources, the Human Resources Department introduced a pioneering initiative aimed at cultivating a culture of continuous learning and professional development.

OPaL’s predominantly shift-based operations presented a unique challenge for traditional training methods. However, the HR team quickly transformed this constraint into an opportunity by launching an internal training initiative. Senior and middle-level employees, with years of expertise, took the lead in mentoring and training younger team members, creating a cycle of knowledge-sharing and growth that benefits both experienced professionals and emerging talent.

In November 2024, OPaL took a significant step forward with the introduction of an innovative online learning initiative. This program allowed OPaL employees to enrol in relevant courses through credible online platforms. With approval from their supervisors, employees could enhance their skills, supported by modest reimbursements from the company based on their level. This approach not only encouraged self-directed learning but also empowered employees to take charge of their professional development.

The impact was immediate. Employees proactively connected with top training agencies to negotiate bulk discounts for certifications, while department heads encouraged and guided them in identifying valuable courses. The result was a strong culture of self-motivated learning and skill development across all levels of OPaL.

The success of such initiatives is contingent upon strong leadership support, and the HR Department was privileged to receive consistent endorsement from the leadership team. Shri Gurinder Singh- MD, along with Shri Jati Panigrahi, General Manager- Finance, extended unwavering support to the programme. At the Plant level, the initiative was actively championed by the Shri Arup Jhampri – COO, who provided strategic guidance to the HR team comprising Shri Ashish Nair, DGM - HR and Shri Jaikaran Singh, Deputy Manager - HR. At the Corporate Office and Zonal Offices, the initiative was effectively driven by Shri Chintan Trivedi, Manager -HR and Shri Krishna Zaveri, Deputy Manager.

This award is not merely a recognition of the HR Department’s efforts; it is a testament to the collective dedication and hard work of the entire OPaL humanforce. The unwavering commitment to growth, even in the face of resource constraints, has been both commendable and inspiring.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all OPaLians for their continued dedication to learning and growth.