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Hello, I’m President Yasui, running a company that primarily conducts inspections of high-pressure gas equipment as a solo entrepreneur.
Today is Setsubun.
Every year, my family celebrates Setsubun by eating Ehomaki made by my mother. I love it so much that I always end up eating multiple rolls.
It's not a special seafood-filled Ehomaki, but a thick roll sushi containing tamago-yaki (Japanese omelet), cucumber, imitation crab, shiitake mushrooms, kanpyo (dried gourd strips), koya-tofu, and sakura denbu (pink fish flakes).
This year, I joined my children in making Ehomaki from scratch.
Instead of just following the seasonal tradition, we participated in the preparation process, which made it more enjoyable for the kids.
Of course, I put on an Oni (demon) mask and made an entrance...
Only to be bombarded with beans at full force! 😂
Since they threw bagged beans, it actually hurt! 😂
Recently, I had a phone conversation with a junior colleague.
At first, we were talking about a different topic, but eventually, the discussion shifted to his current company.
It seems like he’s going through quite a bit, and his struggles as a salaried employee were very insightful for me as well.
The high-pressure gas inspection industry has long been facing a labor shortage.
It’s not just a recent issue—even 20 years ago when I entered the industry, people were already talking about it.
To become a professional inspector, you need to develop skills in the following areas:
1️⃣ Technical Work – Performing valve maintenance, non-destructive testing, and other field tasks.
2️⃣ Sales & Customer Relations – Communicating with clients, proposing solutions, and preparing estimates.
3️⃣ Knowledge & Leadership – Understanding gas processing, serving as a site supervisor, and handling technical responsibilities.
Some may be better at one area than another, but mastering all three makes you an invaluable asset.
In particular, combining technical skills (1) with deep knowledge (3) will make you highly valued in the industry.
To acquire these skills, it’s essential to:
✔ Ask senior colleagues questions.
✔ Study on your own.
✔ Always be curious about the work around you.
For example:
💡 "Why is this part assembled this way?"
💡 "Why is this structure necessary?"
By continuously asking questions, you create motivation to learn.
Instead of doing things from vague memory, gaining clear understanding allows you to work more efficiently and confidently.
Training the Next Generation
Beyond field expertise, training newcomers is equally important.
However, opportunities for hands-on learning are often limited, so reading books and studying proactively is the best shortcut.
A common reason for labor shortages is friction between experienced and new workers.
Even when talented individuals join the industry, if they’re driven away by poor treatment, the problem worsens.
To grow in this field, observe skilled inspectors around you.
Even if you don’t have a specific mentor, find someone competent and study their actions carefully.
This approach applies not just to inspection work, but to any profession.
Mindset for Success
✔ Put aside your personal opinions at first.
✔ Follow the correct methods as taught.
✔ Earn trust by proving your diligence.
In this industry, hands-on experience is crucial.
But to even get those opportunities, you must first gain the trust of senior colleagues who will allow you to participate.
The key traits for success:
✅ Perseverance
✅ Self-reflection
✅ A willingness to learn
If you cultivate these, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a professional inspector.
See you next time!
Lastly, please click below! 👇
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