At the beginning of each new year, our Wisconsin campus welcomes a new cohort of youth apprentices. Through partnerships with local high schools and Northcentral Technical College, we have the unique opportunity to highlight manufacturing as a long-term career path and foster relationships with the next generation of manufacturing professionals.
This year, seven students are joining us from two local high schools. Each is paired with a mentor and rotates through work areas to learn the manufacturing process from start to finish. Students explore lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, safety, and more.
“Not only do these students build their professional résumés with us, they also get an inside look at how we support the level of excellence our customers rely on,” said Chris Miller, production supervisor.
Current apprentices are high school juniors and seniors with varying career aspirations. Some are committed to a four-year degree in engineering after high school. Others want to develop their skills in welding or fabrication. Regardless of their future paths, the program supports essential soft skills and manufacturing awareness.
“My experience so far has been great. I’m able to get my foot in the door and work with people who are so passionate about sharing what they know and encouraging me along my career journey,” said Dakota Duberstein, youth apprentice.
It’s a rewarding experience for students, recruiters, mentors and supervisors. Everyone involved in the youth apprenticeship program embodies our core values by investing in people and operations and striving for continuous improvement.
