Investing in the Future: How the U.S. Department of Labor Registered Maintenance Apprenticeships to Strengthen Manufacturing Teams

Skylar Randolph, Director of Business Development at Peak Performance, presenting at the Smart Factory Institute Talent and Training Advisory Board Meeting

The manufacturing workforce is changing rapidly. Early-career workers are seeking stable, rewarding careers, while experienced employees need opportunities to upskill and stay competitive. Peak Performance, operators of the Smart Factory Institute, offers an Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Apprenticeship that meets both needs.

As both the Sponsor and Related Technical Instruction (RTI) provider, Peak Performance manages all administrative processes with the State of Tennessee and the U.S. Department of Labor on your behalf. We handle the required registrations, progress evaluations, and reporting in RAPIDS 2.0, so employers can focus on what matters most—developing talent and growing their business.

What Is an Apprenticeship?

The U.S. Department of Labor defines apprenticeship as a structured training model that combines paid, On-the-Job Learning (OJL) with Related Technical Instruction (RTI). Apprentices earn while they learn, building real-world skills while contributing to their employer’s operations.

Program Details: Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Apprenticeship

• Duration: 3-year registered program

• Training: 144 RTI hours per year

• Work Experience: 2,000 OJL hours per year

• Location: Cleveland, TN – The Smart Factory Institute

• Schedule: Fridays, beginning September 19, 2025 (9-week fall session; 9-week spring session)

  
  

This program is designed with direct industry input and provides hands-on training in mechanical, electrical, and smart factory systems—preparing participants for high-demand maintenance roles in modern manufacturing.

Why It Matters

The National Association of Manufacturers reports that 78% of manufacturers face a shortage of qualified workers, with industrial maintenance ranking as the number one occupation shortage. Manufacturers are also projecting that by 2033 there will be 3.8 million job openings in the industry — and nearly half of those could go unfilled if workforce challenges aren’t addressed. Read more from NAM here.

This highlights the urgent need to grow apprenticeship programs to meet manufacturing workforce demand. Apprenticeships offer a “learn and earn” pathway — participants gain valuable, job-ready skills while earning a paycheck, making these programs accessible and rewarding from day one. Employers benefit as well, with companies reporting a 94% retention rate after program completion.

In addition, graduates receive a nationally recognized certification from the U.S. Department of Labor, ensuring their skills are transferable and respected nationwide. Employers can also take advantage of federal and state funding support that helps offset training costs, making apprenticeship programs a smart and sustainable solution for closing critical skills gaps. Learn more here.

Research also shows that companies with apprenticeships reduce hiring costs and build a pipeline of skilled, loyal employees.

Image source: ApprenticeshipTN

Take the Next Step

Investing in apprenticeships is more than workforce development—it’s a strategy for long-term growth and stability. Peak Performance is ready to guide your company through every step of the process.

Call: (423) 464-4280

Email: info@peakperformanceinc.com

Visit: www.peakperformanceinc.com to schedule a consultation.

Build your team. Strengthen your future. Partner with Peak Performance to develop the next generation of industrial maintenance leaders.