German Apprentices Tour NH Businesses, Compare Training

ApprenticeshipNH and NHTI hosted 15 German students and faculty from Berufliche Schule Pinneberg for a two-week exchange program April 18 through May 2. The visitors shadowed local employers to compare American and German apprenticeship models.

The group toured Grappone Automotive Group, Northeast Delta Dental, Eagle Point Investment Advisors, and Bensonwood Custom Home Builders. They also visited the New Hampshire State House and Gibson's Bookstore.

ApprenticeshipNH combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction across construction, healthcare, business, early childhood education, and hospitality. More than 100 employers and 1,500 participants have joined the program.

"Our programs ensure students incur little to no debt and earn nationally recognized credentials," said Kristine Dudley, director of Workforce Training at the Community College System of New Hampshire. "Germany's apprenticeship system produces graduates with early income and minimal student debt."

The exchange included educational sessions at Manchester Community College and cultural activities in the Concord area.