Driven for the future: exploring apprenticeships in robotic technology
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EmailGear up for success with a career in the automotive industry or beyond with this unique webinar series.
Picture a day of work testing electromechanical equipment, maintaining automated machinery, and operating robotics. You are solving problems, using logic to create a solution, and focusing on details. If any of this sounds interesting, exploring a career in mechatronics could be for you!
In Michigan, many community colleges offer a mechatronics or similar degree program. Many of these programs feature apprenticeships which are a great way to get hands-on learning while on the job. The FAME (Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education) program also supports industry experience while students take classes.
With career opportunities in the medical, entertainment and automotive industries, and a skill set that can transfer into other areas, an apprenticeship in mechatronics can be a stepping-stone to a variety of careers! Want to learn more? With support from Toyota Motor North America Research and Development, Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H will be sharing various career paths in the skilled trades, focusing on apprenticeships to those careers.
The Driven for the Future webinar series includes one webinar each month, January-May in 2025. The webinar series contains three career-based sessions and two sessions on workforce readiness, supporting participants in gaining skills to be beyond ready for their future goals. The dates and topics for the webinars are:
Gearing Up for Success Through Apprenticeships: Advance Your Career in Automotive Research and Development
January 23 at 6 p.m. EST
Are you passionate about vehicles and ready to jump-start your career in the automotive industry? Enjoy technology, robotics and hands-on problem solving? Join us for an engaging webinar designed to provide valuable insight into the skills and certifications you need to excel in today’s fast-evolving automotive industry. Hear success stories from current automotive evaluation technician apprentices who are gaining hands-on experience through the FAME program to turn their passion into a thriving career in skilled trades.
Ace the Interview: Tips to Land Your Dream Job
February 13 at 6 p.m. EST
Interviews can be intimidating, but they’re your chance to showcase your skills and stand out to employers. In this webinar, we’ll cover proven strategies to help you prepare, communicate confidently, and highlight your value. Join us for practical tips to make a lasting impression and drive your career forward!
Rev Up Your Future: Careers in Automotive Performance and Evaluation
March 20 at 6 p.m. EST
Do you have a passion for speed, innovation and problem-solving? Explore the exciting world of automotive performance and evaluation. Learn about cutting-edge technologies, career paths and skills needed to thrive in this industry. Hear from industry experts, young professionals and apprentices who have turned their passion into rewarding careers. Discover how you can get behind the wheel of your future and accelerate towards success!
Driving Success With Workplace Professionalism
April 10 at 6 p.m. EST
Whether you're stepping into the workplace for the first time or are a seasoned professional, this engaging webinar will steer you toward success with insights on professionalism. Geared to resonate with everyone, this session will explore how professionalism is the key to unlocking career growth, building strong relationships, and leaving a positive, lasting impression.
Engineering the Future with Careers in Integrated Vehicle Systems (IVS)
May 1 at 6 p.m. EST
Are you fascinated by cutting-edge technology and the future of driving automation? Join us for an exciting webinar exploring careers in IVS, the backbone of advanced safety and mobility innovations. Learn how IVS professionals support the entire production cycle—from research and development to production follow-up—of driver assistance and automation systems that are shaping safer roads worldwide. Hear inspiring stories from industry experts about how their work is transforming mobility and discover the skills and opportunities to drive your future in automotive innovation!
With the generous sponsorship of Toyota Research and Development, anyone who attends all of the live webinars and/or watches the recordings of the webinars by May 27 will receive an incentive for their participation. For additional resources, articles and registration to attend the free Zoom webinars or watch the webinar recordings, check out the Michigan 4-H Driven for the Future website.
MSU Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development help to prepare young people for successful futures. As a result of career exploration and workforce preparation activities, thousands of Michigan youth are better equipped to make important decisions about their professional future, ready to contribute to the workforce and able to take fiscal responsibility in their personal lives. For more information or resources on career exploration, workforce preparation, financial education or entrepreneurship, contact 4-HCareerPrep@msu.edu.
