Farm equipment manufacturer CLAAS hosted Nebraska officials and German business representatives Tuesday for a roundtable focused on expanding apprenticeship opportunities, as the agricultural industry faces a growing need for skilled workers.
The event, held at CLAAS headquarters in Omaha, marked the first stop on the Skills Initiative Roadshow 2025, which aims to develop partnerships between German companies and U.S. apprenticeship providers.
Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen and State Chamber President Bryan Slone joined representatives from the German American Chamber of Commerce, local business leaders and trade school educators at the discussion, which coincided with National Apprenticeship Day.
“Apprenticeship programs are key to growing our workforce and providing employers with the skilled labor they need,” said Gov. Pillen. “Apprenticeships are equally important for lifting up our kids, introducing them to career opportunities and then giving them the skills and experience that will help them to stand out when seeking permanent employment.”
Growing demand for agricultural apprenticeships
According to ApprenticeshipUSA, 4,332 registered apprentices served in the agriculture industry in 2024, representing a 56 percent increase since 2019.
The event, co-sponsored by Graepel North America, highlighted how apprenticeship programs modeled after the German dual education system can benefit both employers and workers by combining practical training with vocational education.
“We know that as equipment advances and more innovations come online, we are going to need a highly trained workforce to build and maintain these machines,” said Matthias Ristow, president and managing director of business administration at CLAAS Omaha Inc.
Program structure and requirements
In Nebraska, apprenticeship programs require both on-the-job instruction and classroom learning through written agreements approved by the Office of Apprenticeship. For farm equipment manufacturing and servicing specifically, apprenticeships must be approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.
CLAAS has implemented an apprenticeship program at its Omaha facility that teaches participants not only technical skills but also critical thinking and communication abilities.
“We hope by sharing how we have implemented educational programs like this encourages others to consider an apprenticeship program,” Ristow said.
Ristow added that expanding apprenticeship programs throughout Nebraska could create new opportunities and strengthen rural economies.
CLAAS manufactures tractors, combines, forage harvesters, balers and hay tools at factories worldwide.
