Ogeechee Technical College (OTC) is one of only five colleges in the country that has been selected as a training provider for Amazon’s Mechatronics and Robotics Apprenticeship (MRA) Program.
This program, which is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, gives individuals the opportunity to apply for an apprenticeship that will train them on industrial maintenance skills and the technical knowledge needed to fulfill a technical maintenance role with Amazon. Apprentices that see the program through can make more money and acquire the skills necessary for better career opportunities and higher wages—all at no cost to them.
“We are extremely excited to be selected as an MRA training site for Amazon,” said OTC president Lori Durden. “Our division of Economic Development worked tirelessly to secure this opportunity, and I couldn’t be more proud of what they have accomplished. Now, it is time to deliver.”
According to Amazon, apprentices who fulfill the MRA program requirements can see their wages increase up to nearly 40%.
The first Amazon apprentices began arriving for training at Ogeechee Tech in March. They will receive twelve weeks of instruction sitting for four certification exams during that time. Upon successful completion of the 12-week course, apprentices will begin a year of on-the-job learning with Amazon under a journeyworker. After their on-the-job learning, they will be eligible for a full-time role as a mechatronics junior technician.
“It is quite an honor to be chosen,” said Jan Moore, OTC vice president for economic development. “We are confident that we will do a great job. We have experienced staff, phenomenal facilities and support throughout the college. We are excited to get started and will do everything in our power to ensure the apprentices are successful.”
Apprentices in the program work in an Amazon facility and are assigned to a higher education training partner. The other four training partners are located in Indiana, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Texas.
“We expect apprentices to arrive from different parts of the country,” Moore said. “In their downtime, I hope that they will take the opportunity to enjoy what Statesboro and Bulloch County have to offer.”
