Four Lamar State College – Port Arthur students are the first to complete BASF’s apprenticeship program and gain employment at the company’s Port Arthur site. The apprentices were part of BASF’s North American Apprenticeship Development Program, which aims to meet future talent needs for a skilled and diverse technical workforce. Jacob Brent, Katelyn Hahn, Rafeal Lopez and Sarah Ramirez wrapped up 18 months of on-the-job training and education and became employed at BASF TotalEnergies Petrochemicals, LLC. (BTP) in early August.

“BASF’s apprenticeship program gave me practical application for what I was learning in the classroom,” said Rafael Lopez, BASF Process Technician. “I really appreciate the opportunity and am now ready to start working and continue my personal and professional growth that started with this program.”

The Port Arthur site launched the apprenticeship program in January 2023 in partnership with Lamar State College – Port Arthur. The program pays apprentices a full-time wage for time spent on the job and in the classroom. In addition to paying a competitive salary, BASF offers full medical, dental and vision benefits and paid vacation. The program also pays for the cost of tuition, books and fees associated with earning an associate’s degree. At the end of the program, apprentices have the skills and credentials for an opportunity to be placed in positions with annual merit increases and bonuses.

Brent, Hahn and Lopez earned an associate’s degree in process technology. Ramirez earned her degree in instrumentation and electrical equipment. Upon completion of the program, each apprentice interviewed for a full-time role at the Port Arthur site.

“We are very proud to now call these apprentices team members,” said John Lycan, BASF Vice President of Operations at the Port Arthur site. “The apprenticeship program has proven to be a success, not only providing a gateway to stable, well-paying career in manufacturing but also providing opportunities for the people of Port Arthur.”

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, apprenticeship programs bring about many benefits including enhanced employee retention, a safer workplace, a stable and reliable pipeline of qualified workers and a systematic approach to training, ensuring employees are ready and certified to produce at the highest skill levels required.