Dual Apprenticeship, the German-Pittsburgh Model and How Erie's Economy and Youth Can Benefit
Dual Apprenticeship Programs are an innovative and industry-led approach
to education. Benchmarked on the German Dual Education System, they are
the gold standard of a practical educational model developed in conjunction
with technology leaders. They generally combine practice, theory, and work
to train a globally competitive workforce. Companies get a tailored training
program, greater employee loyalty, and access to a high-quality candidate
pool. Rachel Mauer, Director of the German Style Apprenticeship Program
in the Pittsburgh region, explains how this unique program fills skills gaps,
educates a workforce tailored to companies' needs, and creates a competitive
advantage for young students.
– Rachel Mauer, Co-founder and President of the Pittsburgh Chapter of the
German American Chamber of Commerce
Rachel Mauer*, B.A., is the Co-founder and President of the Pittsburgh Chapter
of the German American Chamber of Commerce (AHK Pittsburgh Chapter). She also
launched the German Dual Apprenticeship program in the region. The registered
apprenticeship programs are industry-led with currently 14 companies and four
programs, including Mechatronics, Mechanic in Polymer
Technology (plastics), Sales Engineering, and (upcoming)
Welding. Mauer works closely with the local community
colleges, universities, local high schools, government
entities (e.g. Dept. of Labor & Industry, Dept. of Community
of Economic Development, Dept. of Labor), legislators, and
the German counterparts (e.g. DiHK, German Embassy). Her
professional history includes serving as the Co-Director of
the American Council on Germany’s Pittsburgh Warburg
Chapter, Vice Chairman on the Board of Global Pittsburgh, and
Fellowship Board at the Mattress Factory. She is a graduate from Cornell University
with a degree in International Government and has a Leadership Certificate from
Leadership Pittsburgh.
