Chemical company BASF Corp., the North American affiliate of Germany-based BASF SE, is expanding its North American Apprenticeship Development Program by adding 100 apprentices at 20 manufacturing sites across the country.
The program offers an opportunity to gain on-the-job training and earn credentials while receiving a full-time wage.
The National Association of Manufacturers projects a labor shortage of 2.1 million unfilled manufacturing jobs by 2030, pushing companies like BASF to establish their own pipeline programs. Forty-four percent of this year’s apprentices are women.
BASF Corp. in Washington – BASF CORP.
“Globally, BASF has a history of offering apprenticeship opportunities for more than 100 years,” said Michael Heinz, chairman and CEO of BASF, which is based in Florham Park. “In the U.S., we are committed to building on this success and expanding this entry option into industry while further strengthening our diverse and skilled workforce. I am convinced of the great value vocational training provides as an important first step to a successful career at BASF.”
This year, BASF launched additional apprenticeship programs at multiple sites across the country including in White Stone, S.C.; Whitehouse, Ohio; and Huntsville, Ala.
BASF is collaborating with 19 local colleges on the program, which will last 12 to 36 months.
Apprentices will be trained on the job while at the same time earning an industry-recognized certificate or associate degree. BASF offers a competitive wage and benefits and covers costs associated with the academic programs.
“Being hired into the manufacturing industry has been a major benefit for me and my family,” said Emily Canfield, former BASF apprentice and operator at the company’s site in Wyandotte, Mich. “BASF’s apprenticeship program offered a great opportunity for my future and was essential to my transition into the field. I’m very happy to be a part of such an amazing company and to work alongside so many talented and supportive people.”
