What is the Navigator Training Program?
The Navigator Training Program is a six-month program designed to familiarize recent college graduates with Bridgestone Americas in order to assist them in transitioning into a full-time position within the company. Navigators travel to various plants and offices throughout North America to gain knowledge of the company and its operations. The training program also provides the new teammate the opportunity to network with a diverse group of teammates and explore various work experiences within their discipline. After the six-month training program is complete, it is expected that navigators will move into positions throughout the company.

When does this program start?
There are typically two Navigator Programs per year; one beginning in late January and the other in late July.

How will the program be divided?
The first five weeks of the program are spent learning about the company and traveling to its subsidiaries.  Navigators then move into the first of two nine-week assignments.  This first assignment is followed by a Mid-Program Review consisting of a couple of days in Nashville at the Americas Support Center. During the Mid-Program Review, Navigators make a formal presentation about their nine-week assignment to the management team and review their nine-week performance appraisals.  Following the mid-program review, Navigators begin their second nine-week assignment.  The last week of the program is comprised of final performance reviews, a closing ceremony, and preparation for relocating to new work assignments.

Are Navigators paid?
Navigators are full-time salaried teammates and are eligible for benefits under the company's program..

Where do Navigators live during the program?  Who pays?
During the 25 week training program, NTP participants will live in housing provided by the company. This normally includes hotels, extended stay properties, and corporate apartments. Most of these arrangements are paid for by the company and are furnished with all necessities.

What about travel expenses to/from each location?
The company pays for all travel expenses during the first five weeks of the program.  The initial travel to Nashville at the start of the program and initial travel to/from the navigator’s nine-week assignments are also paid for by the company.  This includes any flights or mileage reimbursements for travel by car.

Will all Navigators travel together?
For the first five weeks of the program, all Navigators will travel together.  After week five, participants will move into the first nine-week assignment. These assignments will vary by discipline and location.  Therefore, not all Navigators will be assigned to any one location at any one time.

How many participants are enrolled in this program?
The Navigator Training Program will generally host 5-12 participants during each class. The program size varies based on the needs of the company.

What majors will be in the program?
Majors will vary depending on the business needs of the company.  Please visit How Can I Become A Navigator to learn of desired majors for future programs.

Where will the navigator’s final assignment be located?
Following the six month training program, final assignments and locations are subject to the needs of the company.  Full time opportunities will vary depending upon position availability and in cases of multiple position openings, the navigator’s personal preference.

What about other questions that I may have?
Feel free to email any questions you have to BridgestoneRecruiting@Bfusa.com.