Blog | Custom Processing Services

CPS Toll Manufacturing Minute: How Training Culture Benefits Customers

Written by Jen Lepore | Jul 9, 2025 1:00:00 PM

At Custom Processing Services (CPS), training isn’t a once-and-done checklist. It’s a cultural commitment woven into every employee experience and every process that impacts our customers and their products.

Training Coordinator Ashley Schaeffer explained it like this, “When we invest in our team’s knowledge and confidence, everything else — the safety, the quality, the consistency — just naturally follows.”

In this podcast episode, Ashley offers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into developing team members and helping them reach their full potential, and how that translates to reliable results for you.


Why Training is Central to CPS Operations

Training at CPS is much more than orientation. It’s how teams stay aligned with strict safety protocols, how they learn evolving customer requirements, and how CPS delivers a product that’s done right — every time.

“We operate in an environment where safety, quality, and consistency are critical,” Schaeffer commented. “None of that happens by chance. CPS training is a culture, not a checkbox. Our shared commitment to doing things right helps us meet our high standards and, in turn, earn our customers trust.”

The CPS training approach emphasizes key areas:

1. Safety

  • Reinforced from day one through job-specific onboarding, huddles, and monthly events
  • Covers PPE, lockout/tagout, chemical handling, machine operation, emergency response

A safe team means fewer risks, a stable process, and better product protection — all essential in delivering safe and reliable products to our customers.

2. Quality & Consistency

  • Department-specific training aligned with established standard operating procedures (SOPs) and detailed customer requirements
  • Visual guides, hands-on practice, and regular audits ensure outcomes remain repeatable across shifts and facilities

There is no shortcut to consistent, top-quality results. Real-time coaching and detailed resources help our customers bring the best products to market.

3. Cross-Training

  • Ongoing, documented training keeps CPS compliant and audit-ready
  • Cross-training supports production flow, reduces downtime, and fills internal gaps

By ensuring our team is able to adapt quickly and address challenges at any point of the process gives our customers seamless support that saves time and money.

People Over Paperwork

Training at CPS is hands-on, personalized, and designed to foster the team’s continuous learning.

“I don't just hand someone a manual and walk away,” explained Ashley. “Our approach includes mentoring, side-by-side coaching, and feedback loops that make learning interactive and collaborative. We value our people's development, not just their productivity.”

Schaeffer’s sentiment is echoed throughout CPS, prompting management to initiate building a dedicated training center at CPS headquarters. It’s a sign of just how seriously the company takes training, team member development, and career-building opportunities to promote from within.

Empowered Teams. Exceptional Outcomes.

Proactive training helps every employee deliver the safety, consistency, and quality our customers depend on — no matter the product, shift, or facility.

It’s more than a pride point. It’s our promise to customers that toll processing projects are handled with precision, timeliness, and the utmost care.

How can we help you?

Reach out to the CPS team any time to discuss your needs. We’re here and happy to help.