Meritor Celebrates PACE Partnership and New Apprentices Joining Program

Western Piedmont Community College held a signing ceremony on Wednesday, August 17th to recognize four Meritor employees, Tyrese Rhone, Alan Moody, Kwamane Ferguson, and Andrew Houser who will bejoining WPCC’s PACE Apprenticeship Program. 

Meritor is a new PACE partner, joining the program this month. Employee Alan Moody started with Meritor last year as a machinist but is excited to continue with the company and begin his apprenticeship journey.

“I learned what I could and made production lead on second shift and they offered me the apprenticeship program and an opportunity for me to go back to school,” apprentice Moody said. “I am trying to go for mechanical engineering, so this is a step in the right direction. I’m excited to learn what I can with the environment that I’m in at work and go to school to get better at what I do.”   

PACE, which stands for Partnership for Apprenticeship and Career Exploration provides apprenticeship opportunities for workers to receive specialized training to enhance their job skills. Apprentices are paid while in the program along with earning an educational credential to demonstrate training.    

“You guys were not handpicked, but you were identified because you’ve all got a lot of runway in front of you. You’ve all demonstrated good habits here. You all show up to work on time, you do a good job, and you all are smart,” Meritor Site Manager Kevin Roy said. “We know this is going to be successful and we are going to help you. You are going to set a precedence for oncoming employees. I couldn’t be more excited that we are growing in skillset and keeping the industry thriving here.”  

President Dr. Joel Welch also shared excitement and offered his congratulations to the new apprentices while mentioning WPCC’s commitment to helping apprentices along the way to achieve their goals.  

“This company is investing in you, and they care about you, and we care about you at Western Piedmont and want to see you be successful.” 

To become a PACE partner, apprentice, or learn more about the program, visit online at wpcc.edu/pace.