State approves robotics apprenticeship program

The Department of Labor and Industry’s Apprenticeship Training Office (ATO) recently approved an automation robotics technician apprenticeship program in York.

The Manufacturers’ Association program will train workers to build, operate, and repair robotic equipment and automated production systems. Apprentices also will learn how to assist engineers in the design and application of robotic systems.

The department’s funding will allow the association to develop the apprenticeship curriculum and purchase robotic training equipment.

“Through this support, the Manufacturers’ Association built a first in the state, four-year robotics apprenticeship in response to employer needs to develop the knowledge-based careers of the future,” Tom Palisin, Manufacturers’ Association executive director, said. “These high-tech, high-skilled apprenticeships are a cornerstone of the association’s new Regional Center of Excellence for Apprenticeship and Training that will grow the regional economy.”

The association has provided apprentice programs for more than 15 years ago and is the largest manufacturing apprenticeship program in southcentral Pennsylvania. It offers nearly 100 manufacturing apprentices.

ATO has assisted with creating 352 registered apprenticeship programs, occupation, or trade additions since it formed in 2016. The office supports 1,504 registered apprenticeship programs, occupation, or trade additions statewide, 17,797 active registered apprentices, and 892 individual program sponsors.