Machine tool builder GF Machining Solutions LLC announced its new "learn and earn" apprenticeship program during the first day of the machine tool builder's 2-day Solutions Days open house. The event, which took place June 6-7 at its Lincolnshire, Ill., headquarters, included technical presentations and equipment demonstrations.

At a presentation about the program, Jon Carlson, marketing specialist for GFMS, said the program is scheduled to begin in the fall. The company plans to accept four students as apprentices for the first year, with the potential for a fifth. The initial program offers opportunities for two field-service engineers and two application engineers. The field-service engineers help coordinate activities that relate to the installation and repair of machines and other manufacturing equipment and resolve technical issues. The application engineers provide technical support and analyze machine performance; the work requires effective spatial reasoning.

Carlson explained that the program is in partnership with Harper College and the Chicago-based Industrial Consortium for Advanced Technical Training. Apprentices will spend 3 years taking courses at Harper College to earn an associate's degree. When school is not in session, they will train at GFMS for 40 hours per week. They will be paid an hourly wage for both activities, plus benefits. "Student loans don't go away, so why start with one?" Carlson asked.

After the 3-year apprenticeship program, participants are required to fulfill an additional 2-year commitment with the company while receiving a salary. After the 5-year commitment, they will have an opportunity to continue to work for GFMS or pursue another career path.

Corey Ocock (pictured), who is the first apprentice in the program, spoke at the open house. He said he is targeting the field-service engineer position after completing a 2-year advanced manufacturing program at Palatine High School, where he operated a CNC 3-axis mill and lathe.

The company says it plans to accept at least four new apprentices into the program each year.