Volkswagen's Chattanooga plant and Chattanooga 2.0 have set up a new workforce development program.
The Volkswagen Neighborhood Talent Pipeline is a five-week program is offered free of charge to qualified participants, who are introduced to the manufacturing process with the goal of preparing them for successful careers at VW.
"Chattanooga 2.0 approached us with this proposal as Volkswagen Chattanooga is in the midst of our largest hiring push since we came to Chattanooga," said Mario Duarte, senior manager of organizational development for VW. "We believe this program will help new hires arrive with a better idea of what it is like to work in a manufacturing environment, and therefore a better opportunity for success," Duarte said.
Upon completion, participants will receive the Chattanooga Manufacturing Excellence Program (C-MEP) industry certification from the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) at Chattanooga State Community College. They also will receive priority to available entry level production jobs with Aerotek at Volkswagen Chattanooga with an average starting wage of $14.50.
"The C-MEP is an opportunity for our citizens to explore manufacturing as a super career choice and to earn an industry recognized credential in safety," said Dr. Jim Barrott, vice president of technical studies and environmental services and TCAT director at the college. "The manufacturing industry is in critical need of committed and dedicated workers and the C-MEP program is a unique way to help our manufacturers find such workers," Barrott said.
The program will take place at the Brainerd Youth & Family Development Center, which has been provided by the city, and will meet two nights per week for five weeks.
"To fill the new jobs created in our city, Chattanoogans must first have the chance to acquire the skills needed to land and retain these opportunities," said Mayor Andy Berke.
Chattanooga 2.0 Executive Director Dr. Jared Bigham said he particularly values the role VW played in catalyzing the effort through its financial support and the mayor's office for convening the parties.