From Classroom to Career: Apprentices Recognized at Doosan Bobcat Ceremony
Doosan Bobcat, Mitchell Community College, and ApprenticeshipNC hosted an Apprentice Recognition Ceremony to celebrate the company’s Spring 2026 Registered Apprenticeship completers, as well as the recipient of the state-recognized 2026 ApprenticeshipNC Outstanding Registered Apprentice Award for exceptional achievement.
“Programs like this don’t succeed on their own,” said Kevin Smith, Doosan Bobcat Site Operations Manager. “They’re made possible through the partnership of our community—state and local leaders, Mitchell Community College, the Iredell County EDC, and the families who support these apprentices. Thank you all for helping make this program possible.
These apprentices have a strong start—gaining real-world experience, opportunities to continue their education, and a clear path forward without student debt. We’re proud of what they’ve achieved and excited for what’s ahead. I encourage others to see apprenticeships as a bridge to a meaningful career.”
Dr. Tim Brewer, president of Mitchell Community College, also thanked Doosan Bobcat for its continued support of the apprenticeship program.
“This apprenticeship model is well established across North Carolina, and we’re proud for Mitchell to be part of it with Doosan,” said Dr. Brewer. “We’re fortunate to have Doosan in Iredell County, supporting jobs locally while making a global impact. Thank you to the apprentices, their families, and the Doosan team for your commitment. This program reflects the great work happening here in our county and across the state.”
2026 ApprenticeshipNC Outstanding Registered Apprentice Award
Recognized among more than 11,000 apprentices across North Carolina, the 2026 ApprenticeshipNC Outstanding Registered Apprentice Award was presented to Isaac Mayberry by Paige Schneider, an ApprenticeshipNC consultant.
“We are here to recognize Isaac’s accomplishments and the hard work that brought him here,” said Schneider. “I also want to acknowledge the strong support system behind his success, including Doosan Bobcat, its partnership with Mitchell Community College, and his mentor, Mark Willett, who championed his nomination. Achievements like this are made possible by a committed team.”
Mayberry completed his associate in applied science degree in Mechatronic Engineering in June 2026 and continues in the apprenticeship program as he works toward fulfilling additional requirements. Since joining Doosan Bobcat in fall 2023 through its partnership with Mitchell, he has gained hands-on experience across the facility—contributing to equipment production, learning control processes, and emphasizing the importance of clear, well-written work instructions.
“Isaac’s nomination reflects a consistent pattern of initiative, technical skill, and leadership,” Schneider added. “He has applied his education to real-world engineering challenges, developing tools and process improvements that enhance safety, quality, and efficiency. He also supported the company’s transition to new systems by quickly learning complex software and assisting employees across shifts. Isaac consistently exceeds expectations, collaborates closely with team members, and takes ownership of challenges until they are resolved. His contributions have strengthened team performance and earned the respect of both frontline employees and senior leadership.”
Doosan Bobcat Spring 2026 Registered Apprenticeship Completers
Two additional Doosan Bobcat apprentices were recognized during the ceremony.
“Being accepted into a registered apprenticeship is highly competitive,” said Schneider. “Successfully completing one requires significant dedication.”
Spring 2026 completers include:
- Chance Caudill, who completed his four-year apprenticeship and earned his associate degree in Mechatronic Engineering in December 2025.
- Kollin Smith, who completed his four-year apprenticeship and is on track to earn his associate degree in Mechatronic Engineering in December 2026.
Lori McKay, Mitchell’s Business Services Coordinator, provided an overview of the four-year Mechatronic Engineering Technology apprenticeship program, which includes:
- 6,000 to 8,000 hours of on-the-job training
- Completion of 26 required competencies
- 576 contact hours of related instruction
Both apprentices have completed—or are nearing completion of—their associate degrees, which equate to an additional 1,550 contact hours.
“That’s a significant commitment and a testament to their dedication,” said McKay. “We’re incredibly proud of the hard work they’ve put in and all they’ve accomplished.”
On-the-Job Training of the Apprenticeship
“All of these apprentices are a great success,” said Mark Willett, apprenticeship program mentor at Doosan Bobcat. “That was evident from the very beginning, which is why we selected them from a highly competitive pool of applicants. They’ve proven to be a strong fit for our team.
The apprenticeship program guides them through multiple phases of manufacturing—from working on the floor building machines to developing problem-solving skills—and supports their continued growth. It’s been rewarding to watch their individual strengths and talents develop along the way. It requires a significant investment of time, but it goes by quickly.”
Willett also reflected on his own early career, noting how apprenticeships help bridge the gap for those beginning in the workforce. By working alongside experienced employees, apprentices gain confidence while benefiting from collaboration with seasoned professionals.
“I’m really proud of you all,” Willett added as he addressed the apprentices.
Willett was also recognized during the ceremony for his dedication as a mentor to the Mechatronic Engineering Technology apprentices at Doosan Bobcat. As he prepares for retirement, he was presented with a certificate of appreciation on behalf of Mitchell Community College and ApprenticeshipNC for his contributions to the program.
Academic Focus of Apprenticeship
“Working with these apprentices regularly on their coursework, I often encouraged them to focus on understanding the why behind the process,” said Lee Troutman, Program Chair/Faculty – Mechatronics Engineering Technology. “I remember one day getting a call from Isaac, and he said, ‘I get it now.’ What he was experiencing on the job connected directly to something we had covered in class. That real-world application made it click in a way a textbook sometimes can’t.”
Troutman noted how the continued growth of apprenticeship programs within the community college system strengthens its role in workforce development. Combining an associate degree with hands-on training provides students with a clear and practical pathway to career success.
“These apprentices are not only strong students but also valuable employees,” Troutman added. “I’m very proud of them.”
Learn more about Apprenticeships
Individuals and employers interested in apprenticeship opportunities are encouraged to learn more at https://www.mitchellcc.edu/apprenticeship/ or connect directly with program representatives:
Lori McKay
Business Services Coordinator
[email protected] | (704) 978-5470
Paige Schneider
Registered Apprenticeship Consultant, ApprenticeshipNC
[email protected] | (919) 665-1749