“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, Giesecke & Devrient launched a U.S. Department of Labor–registered Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Apprenticeship Program in October 2024. Through guidance from IMEC, the company designed a comprehensive program that combines structured on-the-job training with classroom instruction to build technical expertise and confidence among participants. The apprenticeship outlines clear competency milestones, wage progression, and mentorship requirements, ensuring each technician advances through measurable skill development. IMEC managed the full DOL registration process, coordinated alignment with industry standards, and provided tools to track apprentice progress and success. The program’s first participant, Simon Wu, recently earned his credential, an achievement that reflects the program’s effectiveness in strengthening both individual skill sets and Giesecke & Devrient’s overall technical capability.
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
