CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Parkland College has expanded its apprentice program to train and develop collision repair technicians. The Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD) has agreed to support Parkland’s Collision Repair Technology program by sponsoring a U.S. Department of Labor-registered apprentice in its Urbana bus maintenance facility this fall.
Josh Berbaum, the maintenance and facilities director at MTD, says he loves the idea of supporting the students, while benefitting the community: “This not only benefits MTD but the community as well,” Berbaum said. “We believe in the work that Parkland is doing through their technical college courses and do everything we can to help make it a success.”
The program will combine on-the-job training with an experienced MTD mentor along while students earn Parkland’s Associate in Applied Science degree instruction in Collision Repair Technology. After completing the program, graduates will receive a journey worker certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor and a degree from Parkland. Aime Densmore, the director of apprenticeships at Parkland says, “We’re thrilled to partner with MTD, a forward-thinking organization known for its innovation and commitment to sustainability. MTD’s sponsorship of this apprenticeship program not only provides our students with invaluable hands-on experience but also reinforces their role as a leader in our community. Together, we’re not just building careers in collision repair; we’re helping to ensure the future success and growth of our local workforce.”
Each apprentice has access to a $5,000 Quality of Life Scholarship from the Ford Foundation.
Businesses in District 505 who are interesting in partnering with the program can contact Aimee Densmore at adensmore@parkland.edu. Anyone interested in applying can learn more at parkland.edu/apprenticeship.