Ivy Tech students selected for Machining Co-Op Program

Pictured (from left to right) are Jace Sohmer, Ivy Tech Assistant Professor of Machine Tool Technology Mark Cauble, and Jake Schneider. (Photo: Ivy Tech Community College)

LAWRENCEBURG, IN — Two Ivy Tech Community College students have been selected for a machining co-op program at Cincinnati Incorporated that enables them to gain valuable career experience while continuing to take college courses.

Jake Schneider and Jace Sohmer, students at the Ivy Tech Lawrenceburg campus, started the five-month machining co-op program on January 10. Jim Bauer, Corporate Recruiter for Cincinnati Incorporated, spoke highly of their qualifications.

“We were very impressed with the professionalism of these two hires,” said Bauer. “We were also impressed with the education that they’ve both received to date from Ivy Tech that helped them get these positions.”

Both students are enrolled in the Machine Tool Technology program offered at Ivy Tech’s Lawrenceburg and Batesville campuses. Mark Cauble, Assistant Professor of Machine Tool Technology, says that work-and-learn experiences are invaluable for his students.

“I’m thrilled that Jake and Jace have the opportunity to apply their knowledge during this co-op,” he explained. “Cincinnati Incorporated is a great company for a career in machining, and I look forward to our continued partnership.”

Schneider, one of the students selected for the co-op, said he is excited for the opportunity to jumpstart his career change.

“The last two years made me reconsider my career path,” said Schneider. “I enrolled in the Machine Tool Technology program last year and have loved the hands-on classes. This co-op is a great next step in my new career that will allow me to gain work experience in machining.”

Work-and-learn experiences for students are a central focus of the Career Coaching and Employer Connections (CCEC) program at Ivy Tech. Brandon Wernert, Talent Connection Manager at Ivy Tech Lawrenceburg said Ivy Tech looks to grow these opportunities throughout 2022 and beyond.

“Work-and-learn experiences are a win-win scenario for employers and students,” said Wernert. “These opportunities allow students to gain direct experience in their field of study
while also benefitting local employers by growing their talent pipeline.”

For information about work-and-learn opportunities, contact Brandon Wernert, Talent Connection Manager, at [email protected].