LYNCHBURG, Tenn. — Motlow State Community College has partnered with BASF to develop an apprenticeship program at the chemical company’s Sparta, Tennessee location. The ongoing partnership offers apprentices a unique opportunity to gain on-the-job training and earn industry-recognized credentials while receiving a full-time wage. It is part of BASF’s North American Apprenticeship Development Program (NAADP) in conjunction with the US Department of Labor Scaling Apprenticeship Partnership Grant administered by Motlow. 

“The partnership provides BASF continual access to Motlow State students,” said Dr. Michael Torrence, President of Motlow. “Our graduates will be better prepared for industry needs and further upward mobility. We are thankful for the trust BASF is placing with us. The most valuable asset we have as a state is our citizenry.”

Apprentices will be trained on the job while earning industry-recognized credentials and academic credit leading to an associate degree. In addition to paying a competitive wage, BASF offers benefits and covers costs associated with the educational program. At the end of the apprenticeship, participants have the skills and credentials needed to continue their careers in manufacturing.

“BASF has a strong need for a skilled and diverse workforce. This program is an investment in our future team,” said Johnathan Weatherly, Vice President of Operations for Performance Materials and NAADP Executive Sponsor. “Our apprenticeship program underlines our commitment to being a responsible employer. We developed this initiative to give future employees an attractive entry option to the chemical industry’s promising careers.”

The National Association of Manufacturers projects a labor shortage of 2.4 million skilled workers through the end of the decade. The apprenticeship program aims to close this gap and support the manufacturing industry’s efforts to secure a skilled workforce. 

There are four production technician positions available and one maintenance technician position. Job announcements close at the end of June, and apprentices will begin work on August 1. Current Motlow students are encouraged to apply.

Over 12 months (three semesters), as a Production Technician Apprentice you will earn a competitive wage and participate in on-the-job training alongside experienced technicians, gain credit toward a degree at Motlow State Community College with tuition, books, and fees covered by BASF, and combine classroom studies with real-world, hands-on training to develop the skills needed to succeed as a Production Technician.

Over 30 months (four semesters at a full academic load), as a Maintenance Technician Apprentice you will earn a competitive wage and participate in on-the-job training alongside experienced technicians, and complete a Mechatronics Technology AAS at Motlow State Community College with tuition, books, and fees covered by BASF. Apprentices will combine classroom studies with real-world, hands-on training to develop the skills needed to succeed as a Maintenance Technician.

To apply for the program, follow this link. •

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