Three local organizations have partnered together to launch a first-of-its-kind apprenticeship program in Monroe County ahead of the ninth annual National Apprenticeship Week.
The inaugural Automotive Tech Specialist Apprenticeship Program is offered through the nonprofit SEMCA Michigan Works in union with Monroe Dodge Superstore and Monroe County Community College.
The two-year program will give apprentices an opportunity to learn and develop skills through on-the-job training at the dealership combined with traditional college coursework. Apprentices are compensated at a competitive wage with no out-of-pocket expenses and can earn a national certification from the U.S. Department of Labor.
Upon completion of the Related Training Instruction (RTI) curriculum, apprentices can also apply credit coursework toward a certificate or degree from MCCC.
In a press release, SEMCA Michigan Works said the program addresses the shortage of skilled technicians in the automotive industry and provides a unique opportunity for individuals to gain hands-on experience and academic knowledge.
Anybody interested in the program can attend a special meeting from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Nov. 13 at the Monroe Dodge Superstore, 15160 S. Dixie Highway, to learn more about apprenticeship opportunities. More information and registration can be found online at www.SEMCAMiWorks.org/naw.
“This will help us develop an even better relationship with our local dealership and help us to plan a stronger curriculum in automotive,” said Peter Coomar, dean of the Applied Science and Engineering Technology Division at Monroe County Community College. “We hope to have more dealerships onboard. Apprenticeship is a national initiative.”
The ninth annual National Apprenticeship Week runs Nov. 13-19. This year’s theme is “Registered Apprenticeship: Superhighway to Good Jobs,” which highlights the proven success of registered apprenticeships as an industry-driven training model, according to the press release. The initiative aims to expedite the pathway into high-quality jobs while promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) in the workplace.
“The Low Payment Kings at the Monroe Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Superstore are very proud and excited to partner with the SEMCA Michigan Works and the U.S. Department of Labor to kick off National Apprenticeship Week,” said Ralph Mahalak Jr., owner of Monroe Dodge Superstore.