Apprenticeship Program Offered by Monroe Dodge, MCCC
Three local organizations have teamed up to launch a first-of-its-kind apprenticeship program in Monroe County ahead of the ninth annual National Apprenticeship Week.
The inaugural apprenticeship program for automotive technology specialists is offered through the non-profit organization SEMCA Michigan Works in collaboration with Monroe Dodge Superstore and Monroe County Community College.
The two-year program will give trainees the opportunity to learn and develop skills through on-the-job training at the agency alongside traditional university coursework. Interns are compensated with competitive wages with no out-of-pocket expenses and can obtain national certification from the U.S. Department of Labor.
Upon completion of the Relevant Training Instruction (RTI) curriculum, trainees can also apply approved 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 practical experience and academic knowledge.
Anyone 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 a better relationship with our local agency and help us plan a stronger automotive curriculum,” said Peter Kumar, dean of the Department of Applied Science and Engineering Technology at Monroe County Community College. “We hope to have more agents. Vocational training is a national initiative.”
The ninth National Vocational Training Week will be held from November 13 to 19. This year’s theme is “Registered Apprenticeships: The Highway to Good Jobs,” which highlights the proven success of registered apprenticeships as an industry-based training model, according to the press release. The initiative aims to accelerate the path to high-quality jobs while promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) in the workplace.
“The low-payment kings of Monroe Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Superstore are very proud and excited to partner with SEMCA Michigan Works and the U.S. Department of Labor to kick off National Apprenticeship Week,” said Ralph Mahallac Jr., owner of Monroe Dodge Superstore. .
