Industrial visit is a significant component of a ‘Business Management Program’ to bridge the knowledge gap between theoretical concepts & actual organizational management strategies in improving student learning experiences within the classroom. The real-life understanding acquired by observing functions and processes practiced by organizations can only be appreciated through industrial tours.

One such visit was organized by Westford University College on February 21, 2019 to 3M Innovation Centre. The students from Higher National Diploma (HND) batch had an opportunity to tour the company at Internet city in Dubai & were enthralled by seeing the various R&D projects initiated by 3M. The range of products varied from finished goods to the ones still in-progress of completion. A correspondent from the company displayed early manufactured products of 3M from 1902 which were the best-selling products of the time.

It was interesting to know that 3M is not only present in one segment, but have expanded in various products and business verticals from Scotch-Brite cleaning sponges to Aerospace and Aircraft maintenance products. Students were able to get an overview of different manufacturing divisions including Ceramics, Household products, Healthcare, etc. The undergraduate Westfordians were particularly interested in Novec-1230 Fire Suppression, which is used as Fire extinguishing cleaning agent that minimizes downtime for recovery and cleaning, as it protects people as well as assets through its water less fire suppression process.

Again VHB tape which is as an alternative to screws in cars as well as in construction business, was given to the students to understand the strength of the product. The informative tour resonated and augured well with the students as they were overwhelmed to have experienced a walk through on trendsetting innovations as they were given sticky notes as a  ‘token of appreciation’ at the point of departure.