Washtenaw Community College marked a significant milestone with the launch of its first U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship program, which partners with Toyota & Subaru of Ann Arbor.
Two pioneering students, Raphael Garcia-Settles and Harley Orozco, are the inaugural hires in this program, making history at a signing ceremony alongside Kyrsten Rue, Director of WCC’s Center for Career Success, and Michael Spiegl, Dealer Principal at Toyota & Subaru of Ann Arbor.
This new apprenticeship program is the first of its kind in the region, offering a two-year Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship.
Through the program, Garcia-Settles and Orozco will receive 2,000 hours of paid, on-the-job training, working at Toyota of Ann Arbor.
Simultaneously, they will complete five Automotive Services courses at WCC, which count toward the Automotive Services Technician Certificate.
Apprentices earn a living wage that increases as they gain more skills under the guidance of experienced mentors.
The partnership between WCC and Toyota & Subaru of Ann Arbor not only benefits these students but also lays the groundwork for WCC to develop similar programs with other companies in any USDOL-approved occupation.
“We’re thrilled to collaborate with WCC on this initiative,” Spiegl said. “It aligns perfectly with both our mission of inspiring growth and WCC’s mission of making a positive difference in our community through accessible education.”
USDOL Registered Apprenticeships are recognized for their structured training and robust outcomes.
Ninety percent of apprentices secure employment upon completion, and these programs are uniquely positioned to benefit from both federal and state funding. This ensures that the apprentices receive a comprehensive education that combines both hands-on experience and classroom learning.
“This program is a transformative step for WCC and the region,” said Rue. “By serving as an intermediary, WCC can support companies in managing apprenticeship programs while directly helping students gain valuable skills.”
WCC’s commitment to registered apprenticeships comes at a crucial time, addressing workforce shortages in key sectors such as advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and transportation.
These programs also promote diversity, offering access to high-paying jobs for underrepresented and underserved populations.
As the first two students embark on this exciting journey, the partnership with Toyota & Subaru of Ann Arbor showcases WCC’s dedication to workforce development and its role in shaping the future of apprenticeships in the region.
The success of this program opens doors for many more to follow in fields vital to the community’s economic growth.
START YOUR APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM
The successful launch of the Toyota of Ann Arbor apprenticeship program opens the door for WCC to serve as an intermediary partner in similar apprenticeship programs with other companies for any USDOL-approved occupation.
Apprenticeship is a flexible training strategy that can be customized to meet the needs of any business, either by bringing in new hires or upskilling current employees.
Students, job-seekers and prospective partner companies can learn more about apprenticeship programs at wccnet.edu/apprenticeship.
Tags: Apprenticeships, October 2024, On The Record, USDOL Registered Apprenticeship