#United States #Utica #Semikron Danfoss #GAINS Program #MACNY

Celebrating the Workforce: Semikron Danfoss and its Pioneering Apprentices

On May 2, 2025, a momentous occasion at Semikron Danfoss in Utica marked a significant milestone in New York's advancing manufacturing landscape. This date saw the celebration of 15 apprentices who triumphed over challenges to complete the Industrial Manufacturing Technician Registered Apprenticeship Program (RA). Their graduation not only highlights personal achievements but also underscores the rising significance of Registered Apprenticeships across the country, aligning perfectly with the U.S. Department of Labor's inauguration of National Apprenticeship Day.

National Apprenticeship Day, transitioning from the traditionally observed National Apprenticeship Week in November, serves as a national tribute recognizing the effectiveness of apprenticeships in developing robust career pathways while bolstering the workforce vital to America’s future, especially in sectors like semiconductor and advanced manufacturing. Supporting this initiative is MACNY, The Manufacturers Association, which plays a crucial role as the Group Sponsor, alongside the National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement's (NIICA) overarching program called GAINS, aimed specifically at enhancing the apprenticeship framework in nanotechnology and semiconductors.

Michael Frame, Executive Vice President of MACNY, expressed immense pride in the graduates, reflecting on how these Registered Apprenticeship Programs are transforming workforce development in the state. Frame emphasized, "By linking industry-driven training with educational mentorship, we not only prepare individuals for immediate jobs but also propel them into meaningful, lasting careers in a field anticipated to grow exponentially. Semikron Danfoss is a shining example of how companies can invest in their teams for mutual success."

The New York manufacturing sector currently supports approximately 420,000 jobs, marking a significant economic contributor in the state. Since the onset of 2022, New York has attracted more than $100 billion in semiconductor investments, signaling robust growth and opportunity in the industry. Employees completing Registered Apprenticeships observe tangible benefits, including an impressive average starting salary exceeding $77,000 and a remarkable 94% retention rate within nine months of finishing the program.

The Industrial Manufacturing Technician RA exemplifies how skilled training can unlock access to high-paying jobs, not just for individuals but also assisting in uplifting New York's semiconductor and advanced manufacturing sectors. Michael Godsen, General Manager at Semikron Danfoss, highlighted the company’s commitment to nurturing talent, stressing, "We are incredibly proud of our apprentices and their dedication throughout this program. Embracing Registered Apprenticeships has allowed us to invest in our team's skills while securing the advanced manufacturing workforce we require for future endeavors. This initiative benefits not only our company but also our wider community and the manufacturing sector in New York as a whole."

The impact of skill-based learning reinforced through such programs does not go unnoticed. It enables the creation of a workforce equipped to meet the heightened demands of advanced manufacturing while fostering innovation, particularly within the semiconductor realm. As contributing industries expand, initiatives like GAINS remain pivotal in providing clear and attainable pathways leading to high-skill, high-wage career opportunities. They simultaneously assure employers access to the talented professionals essential for maintaining competitive advantages in today’s market.

Mike Russo, President and CEO of NIICA, reiterated the significance of collaboration in building effective career pathways connecting education, industry training, and employment. He underscored, "Through innovative initiatives like GAINS and New York's inaugural Career Opportunity Hub, we are meeting the vital workforce needs along the I-90 corridor and beyond, reinforcing industries crucial to our nation's progression. Such achievements stem from strong partnerships within New York and nationwide, sharing a mutual commitment to expanding opportunities for workers and communities alike. "

For further insights into NIICA and the GAINS Program, interested parties can visit their website at www.niica.org. For additional information on MACNY, navigate to www.macny.org, and for more about Semikron Danfoss, visit www.semikron-danfoss.com. Together, these organizations are not just shaping the future of manufacturing in New York but are also setting a precedent for workforce development nationwide.