Haimer USA: Investing in Talent Through Scholarships and Apprenticeships

Manufacturing is in the midst of a significant evolution. Technology is driving change, and innovation is at the forefront, yet the industry's success depends on its people. The need for upskilling the next generation has been a key theme at the Mission Critical: Workforce 2030 experience within SME’s events this year, where conversations with industry leaders regularly focus on the training challenges within the manufacturing sector.  

One of those discussions was between Christian Jensen, Director of Institutional Giving for the SME Education Foundation, and Manuel Merkt, COO and Vice President of Marketing for Haimer USA, which took place at the recent Manufacturing Technology Series EAST event in Massachusetts. Their conversation highlighted Haimer's mission to nurture manufacturing talent. As a global leader in the metalworking industry, Haimer is actively building a robust pipeline of future professionals through strategic investments in scholarships and apprenticeships. 

A Holistic Approach to Quality 

Haimer USA is the North American branch of the German-based Haimer Group. It is a privately owned family company with a global footprint that produces a number of precision machining solutions, including tool holders, solid carbide cutting tools, and advanced shrinking and balancing machines. They also provide presetting technology and 3D measuring devices. Their success is tied to Haimer’s business philosophy, which is a simple and powerful statement that guides every part of their operations: "Quality wins."  

However, the company's focus on quality is not limited to what the company produces. It also extends to its workforce. Merkt explained, "Quality wins in terms of our products but also when it comes to people. It's very important to have the right kind of people in our factory in Germany, but then also at Haimer USA to make sure we can provide the best service to our customers." This belief forms the foundation of Haimer's extensive workforce education and training initiatives. 

The Power of Apprenticeships and Training 

Haimer's commitment to developing talent is most visible in its robust apprenticeship programs. In Germany, where the practice is common, Haimer operates a traditional German-style apprenticeship program. Merkt described the model, which is a four-and-a-half-year program. Apprentices spend three days a week in the factory getting hands-on experience, and then they spend two days a week in a trade school learning theoretical concepts. "It's not on-the-job training," Merkt said. "It's really an apprenticeship where they learn a career." 

While the U.S. does not have the same established system, Haimer USA is actively working to replicate this success through other channels. Merkt said they are building a strong network with local schools and partners like SME to create a workforce pipeline. “We also provide our own employees in-house training, a tuition reimbursement program where our employees can take additional classes, go back to school, and we reimburse them for that,” said Merkt. 

This supportive environment, combined with high retention rates for apprentices, highlights Haimer's long-term vision for its workforce. The company also engages in extensive early career outreach through long-term school partnerships and job information days. These initiatives provide students with an invaluable opportunity to interact with current trainees, with the goal of sparking their interest in technology and helping them discover their career paths in manufacturing. 

A Partnership for Progress: The SME Foundation 

Haimer's commitment to the wider manufacturing ecosystem goes beyond its own doors. The company is a proud supporter of the SME Education Foundation, which provides scholarships to students pursuing careers in manufacturing. Jensen asked Merkt how the partnership had come about. “When our fearless leader, Brent Holden, learned about the Foundation, what you guys do at SME to help young kids that might not be able to afford going back to school or go through a training program, to help them financially. He was very excited, and he wanted to be a part of it,” said Merkt. “It was easy for him to convince the rest of the Haimer team to get financially involved because, again, we want to build a network of young individuals that eventually can grow into this trade and help all the companies around here. So it's not just a selfish way of us spending money just on us, but really on the whole manufacturing network.” 

"We can't do it alone,” said Jensen. “We have to help the entire manufacturing ecosystem." The partnership between Haimer and the Foundation is a testament to the belief that nurturing talent is a collective responsibility that benefits the entire industry. Jensen noted that Haimer is now in its second year of awarding scholarships. He asked, “What does that mean for Haimer, knowing that you've supported a young person now through two years of their educational journey?” Merkt said it is amazing that they have sponsored a young person’s learning. "We cannot wait to see what will be at the end of that road," Merkt said. He expressed his hope that the scholarship recipients will flourish in the industry, whether with Haimer or another company. 

Bright Minds and Bright Futures 

Haimer's participation in the SME Bright Minds Student Summit at the Manufacturing Technology Series EAST further illustrates its dedication to inspiring the next generation. These summits, held alongside SME’s large, national events, expose high school students and educators to the exciting, high-tech world of modern manufacturing. Students are organized into teams to tour the show floor, engage with exhibitors, and learn about the latest manufacturing technologies. 

Merkt said watching the students at the Haimer booth was remarkable to witness. He said, “They don't just come to the booth and grab a pen and walk away. They really ask questions, and they are engaged with our team. It's great to see because it's very genuine. They're not just there because they have to be. They want to learn, and that's great to see.” Jensen agreed. “It's really amazing when young people that haven't been exposed to manufacturing see just how cool manufacturing can be. Your booth is fantastic. You've got a lot of sharp-looking parts, and it's amazing,” Jensen said. 

The Value of Loyalty and Learning 

As the interview concluded, Jensen asked Merkt for advice he would give to a young person entering the manufacturing industry today. Drawing on his own experience, including his German apprenticeship, Merkt said, “I think one of the things that I would recommend to young individuals is to stick with something and not just jump to the next best thing right away. Wait it out. It's worth learning. Keep learning, making sure you stay with the company. If they treat you well, make sure that you treat them well, and grow within the company. Loyalty pays off after a while.” 

This advice captures Haimer's ethos. Investing in talent, fostering a supportive environment, and promoting loyalty are good business practices, but they are also essential for the long-term health of the manufacturing industry and its workforce. The partnership between Haimer and the SME Education Foundation illustrates how a company can lead by example. It ensures that the future of manufacturing is not only technologically advanced but also rich in skilled, passionate, and dedicated people. 

To gain even deeper insights into this crucial topic and hear the full conversation between Christian Jensen and Manuel Merkt, watch the whole interview.