Volkswagen Chattanooga graduates four classes

Volkswagen in Chattanooga on Thursday marked the graduation of classes from four programs of the Volkswagen Academy during a ceremony.

This year marked the sixth class from the Automation Mechatronics Program, the third class from the Car Mechatronics Program, the second class from the Engineering Specialist Program, and the first class from the 2+2 Manufacturing and Engineering Technology Program.

“We are all very proud of the accomplishments of our graduates and are excited to have them join our team here in the factory,” said Antonio Pinto, CEO of Volkswagen’s Chattanooga operations. “The value of a quality education is immeasurable, and I am confident that the education our graduates have received has properly prepared them for their future.”

Nicole Koesling, the plant’s senior vice president of human resources, said the continued success of the programs in the Volkswagen Academy further VW’s commitment to the development of its workforce and the narrowing of the skills gap in the community.

Volkswagen Chattanooga partnered with Chattanooga State Community College to implement the Automation Mechatronics, Car Mechatronics and Engineering Specialist Programs in the 163,000-square-foot Volkswagen Academy.

VW created a partnership with Chattanooga State and Tennessee Tech University to develop the 2+2 MET program.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Car Mechatronics Program graduate Jesus Espinosa demonstrates the Volkswagen Passat driving simulator he and classmates designed and built as their capstone project.