photo by Volkswagen Chattanooga
Graduates from the Volkswagen Academy Mechatronics programs once again crossed the podium and entered their new careers as the fifth graduating class from the Automation Mechatronics Program was joined by the second graduating class of the Car Mechatronics Program in completing the three-year course at the Volkswagen Academy.
This year also marked the first graduate of the Engineering Specialist Training Program, a pilot program launched last year which targets candidates who have already earned their bachelor’s degree in engineering.
This 18-month program highlights the same hands-on experience of the mechatronics training coupled with three months of international experience at Volkswagen’s headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany.
Upon completion of the program, graduates are hired into engineering positions at the Chattanooga factory. This year’s graduate, Larry Mendizabal, has accepted a vehicle analysis specialist position on Volkswagen Chattanooga’s quality assurance team.
“This is the most crucial time in our plants history, and I have no doubt that the training these graduates received prepared them to join our team as we face this challenge together,” said Christian Koch, president and CEO of Volkswagen Chattanooga. “Starting Monday morning our apprentices will become instrumental in the successful launch of our new American-made midsize SUV.”
The mechatronics programs are three-year programs based on a dual education system which combines vocational classroom education and paid on-the-job training in one course. Students receive hands-on training in mechanical systems, electricity, electronics, machining, welding and automated systems among other disciplines.
“The Volkswagen Academy and its programs advance Volkswagen’s commitment to building a skilled workforce in Chattanooga, while simultaneously addressing the skills gap present in the U.S.” said Sebastian Patta, EVP Human Resources. “We are very proud of our graduates, and we are confident that the top training they received at the Academy has prepared them for successful careers with Volkswagen.”
Automation Mechatronics Program students are trained to maintain the electrical, informational and mechanical systems in the factory; Car Mechatronics Program students are trained to work with electrical, informational and mechanical systems to help support and maintain vehicle development.
The program is certified by the Association of German Chambers of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) and the German American Chambers of Commerce (AHK USA). The certificate acknowledges companies training according to the German standards in the highest category defined by the Association of German Chambers of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) in Berlin.
“German Chambers of Commerce have served as the lead organizers and certifiers of apprenticeship programs in Germany for over 100 years,” said Martina Stellmaszek, president and CEO, German American Chamber of Commerce of the Southern U.S., Inc. “The apprenticeship model offered by Volkswagen and which is certified by the GACC South provides students, not only the opportunity to advance themselves, but allows businesses to prosper as well.”
Volkswagen Chattanooga partners with Chattanooga State Community College to implement the Automation Mechatronics, Car Mechatronics and Engineering Specialist Programs in the 163,000 sq. ft. Volkswagen Academy.
For more information or to enroll in the Volkswagen Academy, visit:
http://www.chattanoogastate.edu/engineering-technology/partnerships/vw-academy/.
photo by Volkswagen Chattanooga