Earn and learn through a fabulous apprenticeship at John Deere

John Deere's Apprenticeship Program helps address a widespread shortage of service technicians, especially in rural areas across the country, by providing dealers with a formalized, on-the-job and technical training plan to help them develop more highly skilled employees.

"The Registered Apprenticeship Program complements our existing John Deere TECH program. In addition to the on-the-job training experience, an apprentice receives technical instruction and is assigned a personal mentor as a part of the highly organized training structure. Upon completion of the apprenticeship, he or she will receive a nationally recognized journeyworker certificate," explains Grant Suhre, Director, Region 4 Customer and Product Support for John Deere Ag & Turf.

There’s never been a better time to consider an apprenticeship with John Deere. As the agricultural and turf machinery business becomes more technologically advanced, utilizing satellite navigation systems, Formula 1 transmission technology, computerized controls and advanced, fuel-efficient engines, the need for skilled people working in the industry becomes ever greater. It’s not just about the machines either. Sophisticated parts and service systems require the same skills too. The John Deere dealer of tomorrow is a challenging business, with a wide range of opportunities and exciting prospects for the right people. Whatever your interest, there is a role for you.

What is a John Deere apprenticeship?

Like all apprenticeships, your program will combine training with paid employment, leading to nationally recognised and valued qualifications. You will work at a John Deere dealership but also spend time at the John Deere Apprentice Training Centre and at John Deere’s Head Office, both near Nottingham. You are supported by a designated Learning Advisor and by your employing dealer, gaining valuable workplace skills by undertaking practical tasks and experiencing real-life challenges. You will be provided with an individually tailored learning plan, with progress monitored by your Learning Advisor who will make regular visits to you in your dealership for on the job review and guidance.

Earn and learn

Through participation in the apprenticeship program, dealers formally commit to developing additional talent in an earn-while-you-learn program. A participating apprentice benefits from structured, on-the-job training in partnership with an experienced mentor. As training progresses, apprentices are rewarded for new skills acquired.

Apprentice mentorship

Apprentices can enter the Agriculture and Equipment Technician or Heavy Construction Equipment Mechanic programs. In addition, other occupations can be selected for the apprentice program, including sales professionals, parts professionals, accountants or many other occupations.

When apprentices participate, they track and report their on-the-job learning and technical training time in conjunction with their employer.