Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Since summer 2025, Ivoclar, a dental products manufacturer with headquarters in Liechtenstein, has introduced a training program for apprentices at their Somerset, New Jersey production facility. The program combines American structures with the company’s vocational training philosophy.
Registered under the National Apprenticeship System in coordination with the U.S. Department of Labor, and working with local community colleges, the aim of the program offers a structured, industry-driven pathway that allows participants to earn while learning, preparing them for skilled careers, while Ivoclar benefits from a growing pool of qualified workers, trained in highly technical areas.
The program includes:
- Paid on-the-job training under a mentor or journey-level worker
- Classroom or related technical instruction (RTI), often delivered through colleges, unions, or training providers – utilizing local community colleges
- Progressive wage increases as apprentices gain skills
- A nationally recognized, portable credential upon completion
Through the U.S. Department of Labor and the local community colleges, this registered apprenticeship program is bringing the following advantages to apprentices, the local community, and Ivoclar-Somerset:
- Very high employment retention
- Skilled workforce
- Customized training
- Improved productivity
- Higher starting salaries for apprentices
- Higher lifetime earning potential for apprentices