What’s a Journeyman’s Card, Anyway?
Instead of a journeyman’s card, the apprenticeship program at Grob Systems offers a free associate degree as well as a paycheck and the possibility to launch a manufacturing career with the company.
Share
Machine tool builder Grob Systems is located in Bluffton, Ohio. While that location is centrally located among a number of the company’s automotive customers, it isn’t exactly a hotbed for shopfloor talent. That’s why, from the get-go, the company started an apprenticeship program based on its German parent company’s model. However, it recently modified the program to offer an associate degree instead of a journeyman’s card.
As the program’s training supervisor asks, “How many kids (or parents) know what a journeyman’s card is? On the other hand, they’re certainly familiar with an associate degree.” Learn more.
Related Content
-
How I Made It: Matt Erbach
One of only 10 teachers statewide to receive the 2025 Golden Apple Award, Matt Erbach earned the honor for his exceptional work teaching CNC machining and welding — a rare recognition for a career and technical educator. In this interview, Erbach shares how he transformed a neglected shop class into a cutting-edge manufacturing lab.
-
Lessons That Matter for the Future of Automated Job Shops
The Automated Shop Conference (TASC, August 12–13) is designed for job shop leaders looking to implement automation in practical, high-impact ways — from lights-out machining to AI-driven programming and front-office integration. Here are 10 standout sessions led by shop owners, engineers and innovators who are pushing automation forward without massive budgets or unrealistic expectations.
-
How I Made It: Craig Cegielski
Craig Cegielski tells us about the founding and successes of student-run manufacturing business Cardinal Manufacturing and offers advice for setting up a student-run manufacturing business in your own school district.
.png;maxWidth=300;quality=90;format=webp)
