When it comes to workforce development training models, there is no better examples than the Apprenticeship Programs at SUNY. Through this initiative, students take SUNY courses while they enhance their skills on the job to meet the ever-changing demands of New York’s economic landscape.
But what is involved in becoming an apprentice, and how does that role benefit the career pathway of an active participant in the Apprenticeship Programs at SUNY? We talked to Malachi Dean, a registered advanced manufacturing apprentice working at Indium Corporation a signatory under the Manufacturing Association of Central New York (MACNY) who is enrolled at Mohawk Valley Community College about his journey. Hear his story in the conversation below.
Tell me about your background
My name is Malachi Dean, and I work as an Industrial Manufacturing Technician (IMT) at Indium Corporation‘s Electronic Chemical Division (ECD) plant located in Central New York. I am a member of Cohort II of the apprenticeship program.
When you were in high school what did you want to do for a living when you were older?
When I was in high school, I always dreamt of being in the medical field. I was always drawn to helping people, as I currently enjoy doing now. Meeting different people and making a positive impact on their lives was something I saw myself doing when I was in high school.
What work did you do before becoming an IMT Apprentices at Indium?
Before working at Indium Corporation, I was a full-time student and worked part-time as a Direct Support Professional. In that role, I assisted individuals with disabilities, helping them to become as independent as possible.
Before starting your apprenticeship, what was your perception of apprenticeships overall?
Before starting the program, I was a bit skeptical. I was not sure how it would help me or impact my career choices. However, I saw it as an opportunity to try something new. I’m so happy I did.
What do you like the most about being a Registered Apprentice completing Related Instruction Training at SUNY?
Registered Apprenticeship gives me the flexibility to attend classes at Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC) while also working full-time at Indium. This relationship between the campus and my employer, allows me the ability so I can get my course work completed while on the job. I also like how there are a lot of resources through MVCC, including staff members who ensure I’m succeeding in the apprenticeship program.
Have you found the stuff you have learned in class to be applicable for your role on the shop floor?
Yes, the things I have learned in my MVCC classes help me understand more things I see in my everyday on-the-job tasks. It has helped me understand things in electrical that I had very little knowledge of.
How do you feel the apprenticeship program is helping you in your career journey?
My apprenticeship greatly contributed to my development professionally. My daily work assignments from college level courses are now incorporated in the new knowledge and abilities I have acquired at Indium. I now understand how to establish a strong rapport with others. In addition to encouraging me to pursue my interest in engineering work, the program has helped me become more outspoken in group settings. This curriculum has aided in my development and has enabled me to take more advantage of opportunities when they appear.
What motivates you to do a good job?
What motivates me to do a good job is my family. Being able to support them motivates me to come to work and perform well. Feeling appreciated at work, knowing that my hard work does not go unnoticed, makes me feel great about myself and fuels me to continue to do a great job.
What are you most proud of in relation to the work you are doing and the registered apprenticeship program?
My time as an IMT Registered Apprentice has been fantastic. I’ve had a lot of opportunity to grow both professionally and personally thanks to this program. During my time in the program, I’ve made a lot of friends and developed a wonderful rapport. I was able to excel in the program because of the support and guidance I received from individuals associated with the program. I had no idea where the program would lead me or whether it would be helpful when I first started. I am glad that I enrolled in the apprenticeship since it has helped me progress in my career at Indium.
Last question, do you have any advice for someone else thinking about becoming an apprentice?
I would advise anyone thinking about an apprenticeship to seize the opportunity. The entire program is provided by Indium and supported by SUNY, so I didn’t have to pay the tuition for my college classes. You have access to resources, assistance, and financial support needed to be successful in a career. I would advise you to make sure you show up to work on time and be on top of your classwork and blue books (apprenticeship logs) once you begin your Registered Apprenticeship. It’s easier than it seems. I was apprehensive about enrolling in the program because I believed it would be difficult and a waste of time. It’s been the best decision of my life, and I doubt that I would be where I am now if I hadn’t enrolled in this program.
