“An apprenticeship program for our maintenance technicians is critical to ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability of equipment. It equips technicians with the skills to perform preventive and corrective maintenance, troubleshoot effectively, and adapt to evolving technologies. Programs like this reduce downtime, minimize costly repairs, and promote a culture of continuous improvement.”Luis LaraSr. Manager - Giesecke & Devrient
Situation
Giesecke & Devrient identified an increasing challenge in maintaining a consistent and highly skilled maintenance workforce. With experienced technicians nearing retirement and limited access to new talent entering the industrial trades, the company needed a structured approach to train and retain skilled employees. Unplanned equipment downtime and reliance on external maintenance vendors further emphasized the need for an internal workforce development solution.
Solution
Partnering with IMEC, G+D launched a DOL-registered Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Apprenticeship Program in October 2024.
Through the guidance of IMEC, the program was designed to:
- Establish a formal on-the-job training and classroom learning structure.
- Define clear competency milestones, wage progression, and mentorship requirements.
- Provide a career pathway for maintenance technicians while building company-wide technical capability.
IMEC managed the DOL registration process, coordinated training alignment, and provided tools for tracking apprentice progress. The program’s first participant, Simon Wu, recently earned his credential, demonstrating the program’s success in strengthening individual and organizational skill sets.
Results
The apprenticeship program is set to create measurable and lasting impacts for Giesecke & Devrient:
| Anticipated Impact Category | Anticipated Outcome | Estimated Value |
| Workforce Development | Six apprentices trained over three years, improving skill depth and reliability of in-house maintenance operations. | $500,000 – $600,000 |
| Operational Efficiency | Decrease in unplanned downtime and faster issue resolution. | $75,000 – $100,000 annually |
| Cost Savings | Reduced use of external contractors and third-party repairs. | $40,000 annually |
| Retention Savings | Lower turnover and recruitment costs due to career growth opportunities. | $50,000 – $70,000 (3 years) |
| Productivity Gains | Increased uptime and equipment reliability. | $100,000 – $150,000 annually |
| Total Estimated Impact (3 Years) | $750,000 – $960,000 |
Impact by the Numbers
- $750,000 – $960,000 in combined projected impact
- 6 skilled technicians developed through structured apprenticeship
- Reduced equipment downtime and increased productivity
- Registered DOL apprenticeship improving workforce pipeline
