Apprenticeship Academy at Gateway Community & Technical College provides opportunities for students to work and learn
The new two-year Apprenticeship Academy program at GCTC will pair students with local companies to gain on-the-job training through apprenticeships while pursuing degrees and certifications.
Gateway Community & Technical College announced the Apprenticeship Academy program in April and is currently accepting applications for the program. Local manufacturing employers are partnering with GCTC to provide apprenticeship opportunities that will provide students with hands-on experience while developing a stronger workforce and reducing training costs to companies. Students will select a field of study and be paired with a company in that field. The Apprenticeship Academy will be available to those enrolled in one of GCTC's Advanced Manufacturing programs.
According to a news release from GCTC, during the first semester of the Apprenticeship Academy, students will receive technical instruction from the college, required for all of its manufacturing career programs. The second semester will have student apprentices work in two- or three-week rotations with area manufacturers to learn about their manufacturing processes and corporate cultures while being exposed to a variety of skilled technical careers in the region.
The program will be mutually beneficial to both students and local companies, as explained by Heather McClanahan, Apprenticeship Project Manager at GCTC. "Employers will benefit from a reduced financial investment of apprenticeship, an extended interview process during the rotations, and an opportunity to fill their talent pipelines for critical skilled technical jobs," McClanahan said, adding, "Students benefit from a low to no cost quality education, career exploration opportunities, and successful careers in our region's high-demand sectors. It is a win, win for everyone involved."
During the second year, employers will hire apprentices from the program, allowing the students to jump start their careers while finishing their classroom education. TANK, a local manufacturer, is just one company that has agreed to partner with GCTC for the program. William Hock, TANK Director of Maintenance, said, "TANK chose to partner with Gateway to provide an apprenticeship program. We believe that the resources spent developing new technicians will lead to long-term employees."
The Kentucky Work Ready Scholarship may also be available to students in the Apprenticeship Academy. The scholarship can provide financial assistance for up to 60 hours of tuition for residents of Kentucky who do not yet have an associate degree.