Apprenticeship program — Tech and BASF

Years ago getting a paycheck while still in school was something rarely heard of.  Apprenticeship programs involving employers and schools have changed that.  Example is the new apprenticeship program between BASF of Seneca and Tri-County Technical College.  That program officially started today in a ceremony featuring 10 apprentice process technicians who will attend classes 1-2 days a week at Tech’s Oconee campus while working at BASF in the Reedy Fork Community near Seneca.  In the eight-month program, apprentices earn a full-time wage and take part in on-the-job training while earning a certificate in process technology.  At the end, they are to acquire the skills and credentials for permanent jobs.  And that’s music to the ears of BASF’s plant manager, Elba Lizardi.  She reminded those at today’s ceremony that her plant already employs 400 workers and has recently announced an expansion will add 50 more workers.