GRAND RAPIDS — TGW Systems Inc. USA, the subsidiary of the Austrian material handling systems manufacurer, has announced a new mechatronics paid apprenticeship program, developed in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Labor and the Michigan Department of Talent and Economic Development.
Company officials said the apprenticeship program would focus on the underemployed and military veterans as opposed to recent high school or college graduates.
The apprentices are selected based on previous work experience and education (military, trade school, college courses) that will allow them to rapidly grasp the theoretical as well as the practical aspects of the program.
Training consists of self-paced learning, instructor led classes, computer based learning, as well as significant on the job training within the various departments within TGW Systems. TGW has also established partnerships with several local community colleges.
The program for each apprentice will last approximately 16-24 months dependent on the previous experience of the individual and how rapidly they move through the program. Once they have completed the program, the newly certified Mechatronics Technicians will have the opportunity to use their skills with one of the various departments within TGW depending on their preferences and the needs of the departments.