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 why apprenticeships are so relevant for stakeholders from the perspective of John Koetz, President of the Surface Mining division at Komatsu explains the great importance this program has for stakeholders and the students.
Why is Work-Based Learning So Important
In this case study, Koetz highlights the importance of apprenticeships in helping Komatsu grow and develop for the future. For Komatsu’s existing leadership and operations, it was exciting to see students becoming a part of the company after graduation and the rewarding feeling of knowing they were part of that student’s development.
Andy Hepburn, Chief Innovation Officer, touches on how Komatsu is seeking to become a leader in this space and many of the opportunities they were able to create impacting young people in the SE Wisconsin area. Since seeing the successes they had previously, Koetz explains how they look to grow their number of students in the next year and continually, “it has been such a successful way to help students, educators, and parents get connected with what’s possible in technical education and how that leads to family-supporting jobs and careers in the future.”