Closing the gap: Cummins and JCC partner for NY state-certified apprenticeship program

The Cummins Inc. Jamestown Engine Plant (JEP) is not only leading the way with engine development but also at the forefront of an innovative program inspiring skilled workers. By partnering with Jamestown Community College (JCC), the company offers accredited classes and hands-on, Cummins-specific training to invest in the future success of employees.

What is the Skilled Trade Apprenticeship?

With an in-house, state-certified journey worker apprenticeship program, Cummins provides plant employees with the necessary skills to remain relevant in an ever-changing industry. The program is designed to build from within Cummins' internal employee base. Beyond educating and training employees, the program also allows Cummins to retain valuable talent while filling critical open Skilled Trades positions.

In April of 2023, the Associated Press reported that trade programs are thriving as fewer students register for higher education classes. For current employees and students alike, trade programs are often more affordable and lead directly to a career path.

The JEP program has been running since the 1980s, but for the last two years, Jennifer Burlee, Central Services Technical Service Leader, has led the charge, alongside Skilled Trades Trainers. During that time, she's noticed the beginning of a significant transition in the industry.

At the intersection of mechanics, electronics and computing lies a multidisciplinary field called Mechatronics. It refers to the set of skills needed in the contemporary, highly-advanced automated manufacturing industry.

"Schools are offering degrees in mechatronics which falls in the electrical world, but also includes machine repair," Burlee says. "With more computer controlled, interconnected equipment coming in, [Cummins] need[s] people who understand core industrial electrical components plus machine controllers, advanced robotics, CNC programming and writing code. This knowledge is needed in machining, assembly and plant facilities groups."

When employees enter the program, the department in which they end up is determined by the company's forecasted needs. The program, therefore, aims to develop well-rounded graduates, but many don't have the skills for the significant programming that has historically fallen on engineers or OEM contractors. There's a gap.

Cummins is proactively partnering with JCC's Manufacturing Technology Institute (MTI) along with other outside training opportunities to bridge that gap. There, student apprentices access cutting-edge lessons that prepare them for future technological advancements.

Benefits of a trade apprenticeship program

The program's benefits are far-reaching. Participants go through a minimum of 12 accredited classes through JCC's MTI Program and 8,000 hours of training at Cummins, which can take roughly four years. During that time, participants rotate through the plant every 6-12 months to become experts in multiple areas, specifically for Cummins equipment, from skilled, experienced JEP employees.

This collaborative effort between JEP and JCC is a testament to Cummins' commitment to investing in its employees and the community. For Cummins, the program promotes the retention of its valuable employees while filling critical open positions with highly qualified candidates. For Cummins customers, the program affirms they will receive a reliable, expertly built engine. This wouldn't be possible without Skilled Trades employees who maintain our equipment and are dedicated to our brand. It's a win for all involved.