Machinist Apprenticeship Program

BW Papersystems, part of the Barry-Wehmiller Group, builds capital equipment that transforms paper into products for consumers - every day, around the world. We offer innovative technologies, service and parts, and years of global experience in corrugating, finishing; slitting and packaging; stationery; bookbinding and security documents. Customers rely on our machines to produce and convert items such as corrugated boxes, folding cartons, passports, notebooks, copy paper, board, and coated and other specialty papers. Barry-Wehmiller is a diversified global supplier of engineering consulting and manufacturing technology for the packaging, corrugating, sheeting and paper-converting industries. By blending people-centric leadership with disciplined operational strategies and purpose-driven growth, Barry-Wehmiller has become a $3 billion organization with nearly 12,000 team members united by a common belief: to use the power of business to build a better world.

The Machinist Apprenticeship Program at BW Papersystems offers a structured path to becoming a certified machinist through paid, hands-on training, classroom instruction, and real-world experience. This four-year, time-based apprenticeship is offered in partnership with Northcentral Technical College (NTC). Apprentices will work while attending school, developing core machining skills such as milling, turning, CNC operation, and precision measurement. Training includes hands-on experience with both manual and CNC machines (including Mazak equipment) in our state-of-the-art machine shop, which operates across three shifts.

Program Highlights

• 6-year total program (4 years of apprenticeship + 2-year post-program agreement)
• 7,888 total hours (including 432 hours of paid instruction)
• 2,080-hour probationary period
• Apprentices will take four years to complete their Journeyman certification while working part-time
• Upon completion of their Journeyman, candidates must work full-time for 2 years at BW Papersystems in Phillips, WI
• Must maintain a B or above in all coursework (falling below places the apprentice on probation; two consecutive semesters may result in program termination)
• Company-paid travel time and class attendance
• First Aid & CPR certification and "Transition to Trainer" course included

Key Responsibilities

• Learn and perform precision measurement and inspection using calipers, micrometers, and other tools
• Operate manual and CNC machines, including Mazak mill and lathe equipment
• Read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings
• Assist in layout, drilling, turning, grinding, and cutting operations
• Participate in tool fabrication and machine setup
• Gain hands-on experience in materials testing, heat treating, and basic welding
• Follow safety standards and company best practices
• Attend 4 hours per week of paid related instruction at NTC
• Travel between Wausau and Phillips locations using a company vehicle (paid travel time)

This is an Apprentice Role, full-time position with occasional overtime. Must be able, available and willing to work more than 40 hours per week, including scheduled and unscheduled overtime.

Occasional domestic travel may be required for this position.

High school diploma or GED

Valid driver's license and clean driving record

Strong math skills and mechanical aptitude

Detail-oriented, organized, and eager to learn

Comfortable working independently and as part of a team

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.