Registered Apprenticeship Program Benefits Machine Design Services

Registered Apprenticeship Programs have an average of 92% employment retention rate after apprentices complete the program.

Machine Design Services, located in South Hutchinson, Kansas, knows firsthand the benefits of a Registered Apprenticeship Program.  They worked with Hutchinson Community College to develop their program. 

“Hutchinson Community College helped us develop a powerful apprenticeship program.  The benefit of what we received is great, but our apprentice, now a machinist, received a huge benefit as well.  If we are unable to advance his wage, he could go to any manufacturing firm and command a high starting rate.  In several companies, he is more than qualified for a maintenance mechanics position too.  He has skills and options for a career, not just a job,” said Kristy Kidd, co-owner of Machine Design Services.

Machine Design Services provides specialty machining and industrial repair services.   Most of their customers are manufacturing companies that need them to make a piece of their equipment for repair.  These customers are from various industries, Ag, Food Service, Municipalities, Construction, and Utilities.  However, they specialize in mining/minerals, specifically salt, and the Animal Ag Industry, mostly animal feed. Like many manufacturers, Machine Design Services needs more skilled labor.  This was a different approach for them. 

One of the primary advantages of initiating a registered apprenticeship program in Kansas is the ability to customize training to suit the specific needs of your business. Unlike generic training initiatives, apprenticeships enable employers to design curricula aligned precisely with their processes, equipment, and objectives. This ensures that apprentices graduate equipped with the precise skills and knowledge required to excel within your organization. For manufacturers contending with increasingly specialized demands, this tailored approach is invaluable.

Investing in apprenticeships can alleviate the challenge of workforce turnover. In industries such as manufacturing, where skilled labor is in high demand, retaining talent is imperative. Apprenticeship programs foster loyalty among participants, who often feel a sense of gratitude and obligation towards the companies that invested in their training and development. Consequently, employers benefit from reduced turnover rates and the stability of a well-trained, committed workforce.

The typical employer experiences a 44.3% ROI on Registered Apprenticeship Programs.

From a financial standpoint, registered apprenticeship programs offer a compelling return on investment for manufacturers in Kansas. While there are upfront costs associated with implementing and managing such programs, these expenses are outweighed by the long-term benefits of a skilled and loyal workforce. Studies consistently demonstrate that apprenticeship programs result in higher productivity, lower recruitment costs, and increased profitability for businesses. Additionally, employers may be eligible for various tax incentives and grants to offset the costs of training and apprenticeship administration.

In Kansas, an employer that hires a qualified apprentice can claim a credit of up to $2,500 for each apprentice employed, for up to 20 apprentices. 

For more details on the Registered Apprenticeship Program, contact Kansas Manufacturing Solutions. They can guide you to the appropriate resources and connect you with the right assistance in your area of Kansas. CONTACT KMS