Myriam Klein
Manager, Applicant Outreach and Special Projects
+1 (312) 585-8019 klein@gaccmidwest.org
Apprenticeships as a Solution to the Skills Gap
One of the biggest challenges facing manufacturers in the US is the search for qualified workers. 85% of German companies in the US state that they experience difficulties in attracting skilled talent and recruit skilled employees. This is a challenge not only German companies in the US are facing and the reason why there is an increased interest in the German education system in the US.
This initiative focuses on German-American exchange of best practices in a variety of technical and business related training programs, aiming to build a strong foundation of career training collaboration between the two countries.
This involves facilitation of peer-to-peer exchanges between experts from Germany and the US who are already involved with apprenticeship training in order to solidify the presence of German-style apprenticeship programs in the US for the future.
GACC Midwest has developed virtual workshops series on different training programs, as well as delegation trips to Germany, to encourage in-depth discussions on best-practices and solutions for the success of apprenticeship programs between trainers, educators, policy makers, exam board members, and more.
Upcoming Programs
March 12, 2025 - Initiating a Technical Apprenticeship Program
Industry experts discuss pathways to establishing a technical apprenticeship. Learn how to define your company's needs and decide which program is the best-fit solution. Discuss who you need at your table and what can be outsourced.
March 26, 2025 - Unique Recruiting Challenges and Solutions for Technical Apprenticeships
From identifying applicants with the right combination of interest, experience, and skill to emphasizing available career growth and certification opportunities, learn from experts about strategies and best practices when it comes to finding and attracting the perfect Industrial Electronics Technician apprentice candidates for your company.
April 30, 2025 - From Intern to Asset – Building a Growth-Driven Talent pipeline for Your Apprenticeship Program
Internships are more than just short-term work experiences—they’re opportunities to cultivate future employees and strengthen your company’s long-term success. Learn how to design an internship program that fosters skill development, engages top talent, and seamlessly transitions interns into valuable full-time team members, ensuring a thriving and growth-centered company culture.
May 21, 2025 - Education and Training in an Ever-Digitalizing Technical Industry
Technical careers are digitalizing right along with the rest of the world, which prompts a discussion about the value and challenges in developing digital skills. Learn how these industries are implementing new education and training techniques, including Industry 4.0 and unique digital learning platforms.
June 18, 2025 - Hands-on Technical Career? Soft Skills Still Required!
Hands-on Technical Career? Soft Skills Still Required! While having the right know-how and experience is vital for success in a technical career, developing the right soft skills is equally important. In this workshop, experts discuss which soft skills to promote in your apprentices (and trainers!) and how best to provide them with targeted training.
July 16, 2025 - Dual Education, the German Way!
Dual Education, the German Way! Germany's system of combining theoretical education in the classroom with hands-on training at the shop works for a reason. Learn about the proven benefits of the German dual education system, featuring Industry 4.0, and find out how you can see this process at work first-hand!
October 2025 - Study Trip to Germany
Join us for our delegation trip to Germany (location TBD), where we will visit companies, schools, and other organizations involved in apprenticeships to connect with experts and exchange best practices across the Atlantic.
This year, we are focusing on the topics of Industrial Electronics Technician apprenticeship program and Industry 4.0.
For questions about this trip, please contact Jaymee Dhein
If you would like to stay informed and be the first to know when registration goes live, sign up for the short list below!
Study trip dates: October 2025