The IAM’s Corporation for Re-Employment and Safety Training (CREST) recently spearheaded a webinar to help drum up participation in skilled trade apprenticeships in New Jersey. The event, which touted the District 15 Automotive Technician and Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship Training Program, coincided with National Apprenticeship Week activities in the Garden State.
Ira Stern, the IAM’s New Jersey Training and Apprenticeship Coordinator, led a presentation of the union’s apprenticeship opportunities in collaboration with the Passaic County Workplace Development Board. In addition to the IAM, the event included presentations from a representative for building trade unions, AFSCME District 1199J, which represents health care workers and the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Stern shared testimonials from participants of the IAM program, which works with local employers like Penske and Hudson Toyota in Jersey City, N.J.
The IAM apprenticeship program receives funding from the New Jersey (NJ) Department of Labor and Workforce Development as part of their Youth Transition To Work (YTTW) program. The YTTW provides funding to help young people move from high school into occupations through apprenticeship training.
Introduction to Career Opportunities
“This was a great opportunity to introduce many young students to a high paying career alternative to going to college,” Stern said. “The IAM’s diesel and mechanic apprenticeship has introduced many people to great and rewarding work that pays a good wage and sets them up for a great career. This apprenticeship also answers the call to provide a steady stream of qualified and well-trained workers for the demands of our union employers.”
The event was attended by students and educators, and included remarks from New Jersey Labor Secretary Robert Asaro-Angelo, who lauded apprenticeships as a vital tool to prepare the state for more job opportunities.
The webinar was just a snapshot of the several events the IAM was involved in as part of the National Apprenticeship Week. The IAM has several apprenticeship programs throughout the country, all efforts to introduce young workers to many trades.
“These apprenticeships are a great chance to introduce students to rewarding career opportunities,” said Michael Oathout, IAM Director of Safety & Health, Apprenticeships and Scholarships. “These apprentices are earning good compensation as they’re learning on the job. These apprenticeships also offer a solution for employers seeking good, qualified workers. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
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