The program is in partnership with Apprenticeship Carolina and Tri-County Technical College (TCTC), and enables BASF ECMS to hire talented individuals who might not have been considered otherwise due to their lack of manufacturing experience. Since launching the program for production technicians in 2021, BASF ECMS has built a robust pipeline of skilled employees. By focusing on non-traditional hires, the program has successfully transitioned individuals from various backgrounds, including the military, food service, and retail, into thriving manufacturing careers.
Four apprentices, Dylan Bruens, Tristin Chesbro, Andrew Pollard, and Dan Singleton successfully finished the 12-month training program – earning certifications and enhancing their skills for future careers in the manufacturing industry.
Throughout the program, the apprentices obtained OSHA 10 safety certification, White Belt Six Sigma Certification, and completed Creating Safety Involvement (CSI) training for safety observations in the plant. Additionally, they were awarded a certificate in Process Technology from TCTC and an apprenticeship certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor. They also received a pay raise upon completing the program.
“We are proud of the nearly 30 apprentices who have graduated from this program since it began in 2021,” said Bryan Manuel, dean of Integrated Workforce Solutions at Tri-County Technical College. “This program exemplifies the power of education and industry partnership in creating a skilled workforce ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.”
As part of their capstone project, the apprentices designed and built a functioning mini evaporative cooling tower using a five-gallon bucket and small bilge pump. This project highlighted their practical skills, teamwork, and understanding of key roles such as operations, quality assurance, and project management.