LyondellBasell Jackson is dedicated to developing the future workforce. In 2012, the leadership of Jackson State Community College identified the need for skilled maintenance technicians in the expanding manufacturing industry in western Tennessee. In collaboration with local industry leaders, including LYB, JSCC established the Associates of Applied Science Degree in Engineering Systems Technology. The inaugural class graduated in 2016, and the program has been mutually beneficial for the community and the industry ever since.
Rich Cunningham, the maintenance manager for LYB Jackson, has been involved with the program since its inception and currently serves as the vice president of the TN FAME TRI-STAR advisory board. Rich, who graduated from a similar program at Jackson State College, attributes his success to his degree.
As a charter member, LYB has benefited from the program. In the co-op program, a student works three days a week as a maintenance technician, learning the company's policies, procedures, and culture. Seven years ago, Rich hired Andrew Pettit who graduated with the 2nd cohort and as Rich says, “set high expectations for future participants.” Currently, two students are participating in the co-op program at LYB Jackson.
Upon graduation, 98 percent of students secure full-time employment, with many graduating debt-free. The program's success is evident in the growth of participating members from the original 11 to now 36 companies. As the community expands, the program remains poised to meet the current and future workforce needs.
