Oberg Industries (Freeport, PA), a full-service contract manufacturer that offers an Apprenticeship Training Program, is embarking on a new community partnership to directly connect high school students to industry-specific training that mirrors the apprenticeship experience. Due to the growing shortage of qualified candidates for precision manufacturing openings, Oberg has partnered with Highlands High School, part of the Highlands School District in nearby Natrona Heights, PA, to bridge this skilled talent gap.
Oberg Industries and Highlands recently introduced the "Junior Apprentice Advantage," or JAA program. JAA is a pilot program designed to help select students develop industry-specific technological skills and begin to immerse them into the industry culture and values. "Oberg and Highlands believe that this program will provide each student with a head start toward a rewarding career in manufacturing," said David Bonvenuto, President/CEO of Oberg Industries. "We are excited to be part of this new partnership and look forward to helping students and parents realize that manufacturing is an excellent career choice today and well into the future."
This unique learning opportunity is currently offered exclusively to Highlands High School Seniors at no cost or added expense. The JAA courses will be taught by Highlands' faculty at the Highlands High School. Courses will include specialized 3D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) coupled with industry-specific Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerance (GD&T), Advanced Geometry and Trigonometry, and Natural Resources and Production Technology. Throughout the 2014-2015 school year, JAA students will be given access to Oberg's manufacturing operations and employee expertise to help build upon lessons learned in the classroom. Students who successfully complete the JAA courses in good academic standing and pass the Oberg apprenticeship entrance requirements will be pre-qualified to be hired as full-time apprentices at Oberg Industries upon graduation in 2015.
"Entering into the 2014-15 school year, the JAA program is off to a promising start," said a spokesperson. "Six seniors have committed to participate in this inaugural year and are excited to work towards a future career choice that they did not know about six months ago." Elijah Anderson, a Highlands' senior high student from Natrona Heights, PA, said, "I think the classes are quite fun and different from anything we have done in school. I became interested in the JAA program because I wanted to set myself up for a good future."
"This is an exciting opportunity for our students to learn hands-on, develop a plan for their future and contribute to a global market right in their hometown community," said Dr. Michael Bjalobok, Superintendent, Highlands School District. "Oberg's experience in training and educating individuals to be assets to their industry aligns very well with Highlands' goal of shaping successful and productive citizens for the community. JAA will provide yet another opportunity that the high school offers to students so they can be successful and independent in whatever career or field of study they move into upon graduation."
Headquartered just north of Pittsburgh, PA, Oberg Industries is a diversified manufacturer with over 800 employees worldwide specializing in the production of precision machined or stamped metal components and tooling.
For more information contact:
Oberg Industries
2301 Silverville Road
P.O. Box 368
Freeport, PA 16229-0315
724-295-2121
www.oberg.com