NMC says apprenticeship program continues at full speed

The head of the Northern Marianas College apprenticeship program, Geri Willis, retired last week but her departure, according to the college, will not hamper the operation of the program.

Acting NMC president David Attao assured Saipan Tribune yesterday that the program is continuing at full speed.

Willis handled the college apprenticeship program for about five months since January.

Willis said she has been working for many years and described her decision to retire now as a good time to go. She plans to enjoy her retirement while staying on island.

“I am sure whoever they decide to put in there will do a great job,” she said when asked about the possible impact of her exit on the program.

Willis said the program-now fully certified by the U.S. Department of Labor-has strong ties with private businesses, ensuring its continued success. She expressed her willingness to help NMC with the program, albeit under an independent contract, if necessary.

Attao emphasized that NMC is committed to the success of the U.S. Apprenticeship Program. He belied speculations that the program will be in limbo due to Willis’ departure.

“The U.S. Apprenticeship Program is not in limbo and it is not at a standstill. In fact, key staff members and other resources of the college have already been identified to ensure that this program continues to move forward at full speed,” he said.

According to Attao, many college employees were trained on how to direct activities related to the Apprenticeship Program, including working with businesses to identify workforce needs and coordinating related training courses.

He noted that the college has already invested more than $200,000 to launch the program and has asked for $1.3 million of the contract workers’ fees that were paid to the CNMI government to sustain the program at NMC.

“We’ve expended significant resources to lay the groundwork for the U.S. Apprenticeship Program at NMC, and its success continues to be a high priority for the institution,” Attao added.

Apprenticeship is immediate employment, including wages, for U.S. citizens or those with permanent residency status. Students obtain their work experience on-the-job and related training through NMC.

With approximately 1,000 apprenticeship occupations available, NMC will be able to place an apprentice where skilled workers are most needed. The funding from contract worker fees will allow over 600 apprentices to be employed and receive training in the first year and over 900 by the second year.