Nonaka Co., Ltd.
(Head office: Saitama Prefecture, Representative Director and Chairman: NONAKA Hiroaki)

How has your work and lifestyle changed since becoming a Specified Skilled Worker (Type 1)?

I haven’t felt any major changes compared to when I was a Technical Intern Trainee. Even back then, I was mentoring junior colleagues, but now I teach both Vietnamese and Japanese team members.

At the beginning of my internship, I didn’t fully understand the work, and it was very challenging. Now, I know my tasks well and enjoy my job. Additionally, I am grateful for the improved salary I now receive.

For the past six years, Nonaka Corporation has supported me tremendously. From now on, I want to give back and support them as much as I can. I frequently talk with Chairman Nonaka and the company president, and Ms. Sakaki in administration has also helped me with many aspects of daily life. Thank you, everyone.

I would also like to thank the Japanese government for creating the Specified Skilled Worker program. Thanks to this program, I see a brighter future ahead. I hope to continue working here for many years to come.

Do you have any messages for future Specified Skilled Workers?

Before coming to Japan, I highly recommend studying the technical terminology used in rebar construction—it will definitely be helpful later on. Also, since rebar construction is physically demanding, make sure to build your strength.

When you come to Japan, let’s work together to uphold the pride and importance of the rebar construction industry.

For foreign nationals aspiring to work in Japan as either Technical Interns or Specified Skilled Workers, supervising organizations and registered support organizations play a vital role. Make sure to choose organizations that are trustworthy and provide strong, reliable support.

Do you have any advice for companies accepting Specified Skilled Workers?

Our company transitioned from Technical Intern Trainees to Specified Skilled Workers, and we made sure to explain the program thoroughly to the workers. From the start, we encouraged them to imagine their future career paths, such as aiming for Specified Skilled Worker Type 2 status (which allows family accompaniment and is closer to permanent residency). We conveyed to them that they were being considered as future leadership candidates with permanent residency in mind.

Of course, the decision about their future lies with the individual, but we believe that helping them understand the program and set meaningful goals fosters greater growth than merely seeing the program as a way to extend their stay in Japan.

Specified Skilled Workers have the same freedom to change jobs as Japanese workers. While higher-paying opportunities exist, we are always grateful that they choose to stay and work with us.

In today’s labor market, where even job postings attract few applicants, Specified Skilled Workers are a valuable workforce, regardless of nationality. They are skilled craftsmen who grow into exemplary figures for our Technical Intern Trainees, as well as reliable mentors and managers.

Specified Skilled Workers are employees and human beings. They work tirelessly under demanding conditions to achieve both their personal goals and the goals of the company. It is essential to never forget this and to face them with sincerity. Listen carefully to their concerns, build mutual understanding, and foster positive relationships.

When these relationships are nurtured, great outcomes naturally follow. Together, you can overcome challenges, and Specified Skilled Workers will be able to perform their roles with dedication and confidence.

Nonaka Co., Ltd.
Chairman
NONAKA Hiroaki