GROB successfully implements European workforce development strategies in the United States

The disparities between workforce development in Europe and the United States are pronounced. For instance, apprenticeship programs in Europe commence at a significantly younger age and present a wider array of opportunities. While North American initiatives emphasize extensive cross-training in mechanical and electrical disciplines, the European approach delineates specific departmental and positional pathways much earlier in employees' careers. The challenge of training workers swiftly and effectively has long been a concern for manufacturing firms. GROB has been at the forefront of manufacturing systems and machine tool development since 1926 in Munich. The company has production facilities in Germany, Brazil, China, the United States, Italy, and India, along with global service centers and sales subsidiaries.

In 2023, GROB Systems, Inc. commenced construction on a 135,000 sq. ft. U.S. expansion project. This addition augments the original 400,000 sq. ft. production and shipping space by approximately 35 percent (see photo above) and created approximately 200 new jobs at its U.S. headquarters and manufacturing site in Bluffton, OH. Celebrating a 34-year presence in North America, the expanded area accommodates several of GROB's sub-assembly departments to enhance final production processes at the main facility. Recently, Gear Technology engaged in a discussion about GROB's workforce development strategies in the United States with Thomas Neubert, chief sales officer of GROB Systems Inc. in Bluffton, OH. Like many international manufacturing companies, GROB has adapted several successful European programs for implementation in the U.S.