By Scout Nelson
MJE Livestock Equipment has strengthened rural workforce development by graduating its first apprentice through the Rural Kansas Apprenticeship Program. The achievement marks an important step in building skilled agricultural workers and supporting employment opportunities in rural communities.
The completed apprenticeship focused on heavy equipment operations. The program combines hands-on job training with classroom instruction. This structure allowed trainees to gain practical experience while learning the technical reasons behind daily work tasks.
“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.”
MJE shared that investing in training programs helps improve both worker skills and company performance. Apprenticeship programs also create long-term career paths that support rural economic growth.
“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.”
The company has now announced three new apprenticeship openings for concrete finishers based in rural Kansas. These positions will provide training in concrete placement, finishing, protection, and repair. Apprentices will also receive technical education through a local community college.
Apprentices will receive compensation, hands-on mentorship, and formal instruction while developing skills in a high-demand agricultural career field. The program prepares young adults for long-term employment in the livestock equipment industry.
Kansas Farm Bureau continues to support these opportunities by serving as an intermediary sponsor. The organization works with state apprenticeship offices to help manage program administration and training standards.
The Rural Kansas Apprenticeship Program supports agriculture-related businesses by helping them design custom apprenticeship plans. It also assists with curriculum development and required reporting. The goal is to strengthen rural living by helping young adults find career paths within their home communities.
Overall, this expanded apprenticeship effort reflects a growing commitment to workforce development in Kansas in agriculture and helps create stable career opportunities in rural areas.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pablo-rodriguez1
Categories: Kansas, Education, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety