Ambassador visits Bartlett manufacturers

BARTLETT - U.S. Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell recently toured two local member companies of the Industry Consortium for Advanced Technical Training in Bartlett last week.

Grenell visited WITTENSTEIN Holding Corp. and BBS Automation to see firsthand how the ICATT program works with the local businesses. The apprenticeship program works with Midwest high-tech manufacturers and companies with complex technologies or logistics, and is based on the German model combining classroom instruction with on-the-job training. The Ambassador's visit is part of the U.S. government's focus on supporting programs advancing workforce development.

During his tours, he met with workers, trainers, and apprentices and discussed workforce development activities.

"Manufacturing in America is growing again, and we must invest in workforce training to support that growth over the long term," said Grenell.

"The German model for workforce development, especially in manufacturing, is second to none. German manufacturers have invested heavily in the United States and their world-class apprenticeship programs have helped prepare U.S. workers for the jobs of today and tomorrow," he added. "More U.S. companies should adopt similar programs to address their workforce needs."

WITTENSTEIN develops customized products, systems and solutions for highly dynamic motion, precise positioning and smart networking for electromechanical drive technology, while BBS Automation develops and manufactures innovative and flexible automation and testing technology.