Komatsu Case Study: How Employers Benefit From Work-based Learning Programs

GPSEd is excited to introduce a series of videos that captures work-based learning case studies from businesses, alumni, and stakeholders. The business case study reveals how work-based learning has impacted business goals at Komatsu. Komatsu specializes in large construction equipment and John Koetz, President of the Surface Mining division explains the great importance this program has for the students and the business.

Who Does Work-Based Learning Benefit?

In this case study, Koetz speaks to how it’s important for students to get hands-on work experience and an education at the same time. Not only is it a great experience for the students but it’s also enlightening for the employees working with the students. Koetz explains how impactful teaching has been for their employees, “It’s really one of a proud parent where they have been able to be a part of that student through the education and apprenticeship process.” Not only do the current employees and students make a great connection in this program, but Komatsu is also excited to deliver job offers to these committed students after graduation.

Dale Porter, Human Resources Generalist at Komatsu dives into why they made the decision to partner with GPSEd. Porter and Komatsu realized that about 50 to 60 of their employees were retiring over the next five years, so they made the decision to focus on young talent. One of the biggest challenges was getting the older workforce to accept and take these students under their wing. Teaching the students became an exciting part of the job for some of the employees, being able to take part in the student’s career path.

If you want to watch the full video case study, click here. You can also explore our other case study videos featuring Komatsu in our media library. We are excited to see this growth for our students as well as our business partners. We work hard to make this program work for each perspective. If you are a business interested in learning more about partnering with GPSEd, we’d love to hear from you.