Autokiniton and GST Michigan Works! Partner to Develop a Skilled Workforce

Autokiniton, a leading North American manufacturer of structural components and assemblies for automotive manufacturers, faced a significant challenge: finding skilled Electricians, Maintenance Technicians, and Tool & Die Journeymen in their rural area. Recognizing the need for these roles, Autokiniton took proactive steps to address this gap by developing an apprenticeship program.

To ensure comprehensive training, Autokiniton established USDOL Registered Apprenticeships in each of these fields and partnered with Delta College for the classroom portion of the training. This partnership ensured that apprentices received high-quality education tailored to their specific needs.

To further support their apprenticeship program, Autokiniton collaborated with GST Michigan Works! who assisted by providing WorkKeys testing. This testing was used to screen new apprentices, ensuring that only candidates with the right skills and aptitude were selected. During a fact-finding mission, it was determined that the Going PRO Talent Fund would be an excellent resource to help fund the apprentices’ training.

In 2023, Autokiniton applied for and received a Going PRO Talent Fund Grant. This grant enabled the company to support 16 current apprentices with both classroom and On-the-Job Training (OJT). The breakdown of these apprentices included seven Electricians, three Maintenance Technicians, and six Tool & Die Apprentices. Additionally, the grant facilitated the hiring of two new Maintenance Technicians and one new Electrical Apprentice.

As a result, a total of 19 apprentices attended the necessary classes to advance on their path towards achieving their Journeyman Card. The training has been transformational for the employees, allowing them to expand their knowledge, increase their wages, and acquire skills crucial for earning their Journeyman Card.

The success of this initiative is evident in the positive impact on both the employees and the company. Skilled employees are now better equipped to contribute to Autokiniton’s mission of being a leading provider of automotive parts. Despite the challenges of finding qualified employees who can balance classroom training and work schedules, the collaboration between Autokiniton, GST Michigan Works!, and Delta College proved to be a winning strategy.

This success story highlights the importance of strategic partnerships and targeted funding to address skill gaps in the workforce, ensuring the continued growth and success of both employees and employers.