In June 2014, voestalpine Automotive Components Cartersville Inc. launched its own in-house training program for tomorrow’s generation of skilled employees. Seven young employees are in training during the current business year (2017/18), and two graduates of the program are already working as skilled employees in the company.
There is great need for new and qualified employees, but in contrast to Austria and Germany, in the USA there is no uniform or national system of training for youngsters. The training scheme is based on the dual system of education offered in vocational schools, and voestalpine training organizations in Austria and Germany. The training program is run in close cooperation with the local College & Career Academy, which is a form of vocational high school. Four times a week, in three or four hour sessions, the company runs “lessons” and practical exercises on the subjects of tool maintenance, quality, and logistics.Over a period of 2½ years, the trainees are taught both theoretical knowledge and practical skills within the company. Graduates of the program are awarded the title of Industrial Manufacturing Technician.
