“4-panel-comic”Progress-of-new-employees
A moment when someone moves forward becomes an investment in the future.

Manufacturing work is never easy.

On the shop floor, there are strict standards to uphold—quality, safety, and delivery deadlines—and compromises such as “this is good enough” are not easily accepted. This harsh reality becomes even more apparent when it comes to training new employees.

Lowering the required level of work too much can affect the trust and safety of the entire workplace. On the other hand, expecting a high level of perfection from someone with little experience is not realistic either. Finding the right balance between these two is far more difficult than words can express.

T, who works closely with new employees on the shop floor, struggles every day to find that balance. He cannot simply overlook what they cannot do, yet he does not want to create an environment where people become afraid of making mistakes and stop taking on challenges. In the midst of this inner conflict, what he values most is not missing the moments when a newcomer takes a step forward.

A task that could not be done just a few days ago can now be completed independently. A mistake becomes a lesson, and next time they no longer hesitate at the same point. When he notices these small changes, the burden of guiding others seems to lighten naturally. More than that, witnessing someone’s growth up close becomes a profound source of fulfillment in his work.

Working at Hirose Paper is not easy. The standards are high, and the responsibilities are significant. Yet within that demanding environment, there are people who support challenges and take genuine joy in the growth of others.

Through this manga, we hope readers will pause for a moment to reflect on what it means to work, and what it truly means to be in an environment where growth is possible.