Graduate Erin Watson speaks about her group’s project after a graduation ceremony Thursday, August 11, 2016 at Volkswagen.
Graduates study their diplomas during a graduation ceremony Thursday, August 11, 2016 at Volkswagen.
Graduate Aaron Dotson speaks about his group’s project after a graduation ceremony Thursday, August 11, 2016 at Volkswagen.As Volkswagen’s Chattanooga plant faces possibly its most challenging time ever, 14 students graduated Thursday from a pair of apprenticeship programs that officials say help bridge the skills gap.
Graduation from one of the three-year programs, in which participants study either automation or car mechatronics, led to job offers to all students, said Sebastian Patta, executive vice president of human resources for the plant.
“Why import talent when you can create your own?,” Patta asked graduates and families during an hour-long ceremony at the plant where workers are gearing up to produce a new American-made sport utility vehicle later this year.
The seven-seat vehicle is seen as key to a revival in VW’s U.S. sales, which have flagged since the emissions scandal and the shift by buyers to SUVs and trucks.
Patta said the plant is experiencing its most challenging time in its history as it readies the SUV and continues to make the Passat sedan. He said SUV production is on schedule for late this year at the plant, which is undergoing a $900 million expansion and is ramping up hiring.