MJE Livestock Equipment has graduated its first apprentice hired through Kansas Farm Bureau’s (KFB) award-winning Rural Kansas Apprenticeship Program (RKAP) and announced openings for three apprentices. 

Sergeo Martinez finished his yearlong apprenticeship as a heavy equipment operator in December. He says the hands-on training paired with classroom instruction were key to his career development. 

“The apprenticeship gave me the chance to learn by actually doing the work, not just watching,” Martinez says. “Every day on the job built my confidence and skills, and the classroom training helped me understand why we do things the way we do.” 

Martinez’ experience was also beneficial for MJE, which launched its apprenticeship program to invest in its workers and help move the company forward.  

“At MJE, we believe investing in people is just as important as investing in equipment,” says Heather Jantz, MJE’s chief operating officer. “Apprenticeship programs like this allow us to develop skilled operators while creating long-term career opportunities within our company and community.” 

MJE has three open apprenticeship positions for concrete finishers based in Lewis. In addition to gaining experience placing, finishing, protecting and repairing concrete, apprentice finishers will receive technical instruction through Dodge City Community College.  

Apprentices will receive mentorship, training and compensation while developing skills in a high-demand agricultural career path. For more information about current openings, visit mjelivestockequipment.com and click on “Apprenticeship Program” under the About tab. 

KFB?will continue to serve as the?intermediary?sponsor?working with MJE and?the?Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship to assist in the administration of these apprenticeship opportunities.  

“RKAP was designed to promote rural living to young adults,” says Kylee Stout, RKAP business development manager. “MJE is an ideal partner because the company offers a variety of viable career opportunities that allow young adults to prosper in their hometowns.” 

RKAP helps agriculture-related businesses and those operating in rural Kansas customize apprenticeships based on their needs. RKAP assists businesses with curriculum development and manages reporting requirements associated with apprenticeships. To learn more, visit?www.kfb.org/RKAP?or contact Stout at?stoutk@kfb.org.