After four years of hard work, Alex Torres completed his Associate in Applied Science degree at Elgin Community College (ECC) this summer and received his Journeyman Certificate for completing his RAP.

Alex Torres started as a materials handler with Hoffer Plastics in 2020. After seeing his abilities and drive, he was promoted to Mold Setup Technician after just a few months. Hoffer Plastics is a big proponent of upskilling its incumbent workers and has been involved with apprenticeships for many years. Over the next two years, Alex took Industrial Systems Technology classes at ECC to further his skills and knowledge of machines. Due in part to his initiative, in 2022, Alex applied and was accepted into Hoffer's Automation Technician Apprenticeship. Alex continued to excel both in the classroom and on the job, earning wage increases as he became more proficient in industrial maintenance.

ECC serves as the sponsor and RTI for Hoffer Plastics' Automation Apprenticeships; the company currently has two registered apprentices besides Alex. The photo shows Hoffer Plastic's leadership celebrating Alex's achievement. Alex and Hoffer Plastics have also been nominated for Apprenticeship Illinois' Ambassador Program for 2025!