Purpose: The purpose of this study is to describe one advanced manufacturing company’s efforts to build a channel of skilled workforce by developing an apprenticeship programme with high schools. Design/methodology/approach: Using a qualitative case study approach, the authors interviewed the members of the organisation to gain insights into opportunities and challenges they faced in addressing their skills needs. Findings: The analysis showed that the collaboration and commitment of stakeholders were essential to the success of the programme. Furthermore, flexibility in employer’s expectations to allow for career progression was critical to motivating students to continue in the programme. A positive impact of the programme on overall employee morale and organisational culture was revealed. Research limitations/implications: Although the findings may be relevant to other similar organisations, they may have limitations in their applicability to other contexts. Practical implications: The study holds promise for the field of human resource development, as practitioners and scholars can benefit from the renewed interest in youth apprenticeship to identify how their activities within and outside of the organisation can build and retain the human capacity needed for organisational performance and competitiveness. Originality/value: Employer–education partnerships have been touted as a solution to the skills gaps in industries. However, there is very little literature on employer-initiated apprenticeships focused on youth in the USA. Industry–education apprenticeship programmes offers employers an opportunity to address the skills problem in ways that meet their need. © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited.
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