While the College of DuPage (COD) is a Registered Apprenticeship Program Sponsor and Intermediary, the institution partners with area employers with their own Registered Apprentice Programs (RAP). These companies who manage their own RAP can enhance their programs by partnering with the College of DuPage and the Project Hire-Ed team.

Project Hire-Ed serves as a conduit between education and employers by providing access and tools to employers and work-based learning experiences to students. Companies seeking to upskill their workforce will find support and guidance from the Project Hire-Ed team on course selection, registration, billing paperwork, and case-managed wrap-around services for their apprentice during the program.

One partner who has experienced the benefits of working with the College of DuPage for Related Technical Instruction for their company, RAP, is Nestlé.

In the dynamic manufacturing landscape, where technology continually advances and consumer demands evolve, Nestlé recognizes the imperative of cultivating highly skilled talent. Their commitment extends beyond operational excellence to positively impacting every market we serve. Through their apprenticeship program, they offer valuable career pathways to individuals who might otherwise lack such opportunities. This initiative empowers their workforce with cutting-edge skills and enhances productivity across their facilities, ensuring that Nestlé remains at the forefront of innovation and efficiency.

Nestlé has been partnering with Project Hire-Ed for over a year, sending their first apprentices in the fall semester of 2023. The company sent an additional apprentice the following semester and just started a fourth apprentice for the fall semester of 2024. These four apprentices are taking Related Technical Instruction courses at the College of DuPage, working toward certificates in Electronics Technology, Advanced Mechatronics, and Stationary Operator. The Project Hire-Ed staff worked closely with college faculty and Nestlé to help the company review course offerings and develop customer curriculum that best meets their training needs. According to Fulgencio Rico, a Training Supervisor at Nestlé, “One of the factors contributing to the success of our program is our collaboration with the Project Hire-Ed/the College of DuPage team. Their exceptional customer service during the school enrollment process and ongoing support for our apprentices is invaluable.”

When asked why employers with their RAP should consider College of DuPage for their Related Technical Instruction provider, Fulgencio said, “I believe that the wide range of programs and flexible learning options, including both online and classroom courses, provided by Project Hire-Ed / College of DuPage contribute to achieving a work-life balance for our apprentices. The expertise of the instructors and the comprehensive curriculum they offer have played a crucial role in the success of our apprentices.”

From a comprehensive program standpoint, Nestlé has observed significantly higher retention rates among apprentices than non-apprentices. Additionally, they have established a robust pipeline to address the gaps created by their eventual retirees.

Nestlé’s apprenticeship program offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience while earning a wage. Apprentices receive practical training, mentorship from highly skilled employees, and a direct path to career advancement with the world’s largest food and beverage company. By developing in-demand skills, these apprenticeships make individuals highly employable and set for long-term success with Nestlé.