BASF Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions (ECMS) recently recognized its seventh cohort of apprentices who successfully completed the North American BASF ECMS Apprenticeship Program on June 25 at Tri-County Technical College’s (TCTC) Oconee Campus.
This year’s celebration also marks a significant milestone — the fifth anniversary of the program, which launched in 2021 in partnership with Apprenticeship Carolina and TCTC. Over the past five years, the program has played a key role in building a strong pipeline of skilled talent by creating opportunities for individuals without prior manufacturing experience, including those transitioning from the military, as well as food service, retail, and service industries.
The latest group of apprentices joins a growing network of individuals who have completed the program and advanced their careers at BASF ECMS. Since its inception, 32 percent of participants have progressed into higher-level roles, demonstrating the program’s long-term impact on career growth. Additionally, 39 percent of participants have been women, reflecting BASF ECMS’s commitment to expanding access and increasing representation in manufacturing careers.
Over the course of the 11-month program, participants earned a range of industry-recognized credentials, including OSHA 10 certification, White Belt Six Sigma, and Creating Safety Involvement (CSI) training for in-plant safety observations. Apprentices also received a certificate in Process Technology from TCTC and an official apprenticeship certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor. Upon completion, each apprentice received a pay increase.
“We’re proud to celebrate both this newest cohort and five years of strong partnership with BASF ECMS,” said Galen DeHay, president of Tri-County Technical College. “Programs like this create meaningful pathways for individuals while helping meet the growing demand for skilled talent in advanced manufacturing.”
As part of their capstone project, apprentices designed and assembled a functioning mini evaporative cooling tower using a five-gallon bucket and a bilge pump. The project showcased their technical capabilities, problem-solving skills, and collaboration across key manufacturing roles, including operations, quality, and project management.
During the celebration ceremony, apprentices presented their project, highlighting its design, functionality, and the continuous improvement mindset they developed throughout the program.
"Coming in as the new site director, I’ve been truly impressed by the impact this program has had over the past five years," said Mike Estadt, Seneca site director at BASF ECMS. "Celebrating this seventh cohort highlights the consistency and quality of talent being developed here. It’s exciting to see how this program is shaping careers and strengthening our workforce for the long term."
Kirsten Pratt, associate vice president of Apprenticeship Carolina, added: “By combining education with hands-on experience and mentorship, the program enhances participant success, supports workforce development, and improves retention within the manufacturing field. This celebration not only recognizes individual achievement but also the power of collaboration programs like this offer in creating meaningful career pathways and bolstering our state’s economy.”
To learn more about BASF ECMS, visit https://basf-catalystsmetals.com.
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