Perspective | Driven to succeed: How Jacob Mitchell found his path at Ascendum Machinery
After graduating high school early in 2022, Jacob Mitchell took a job at a local Autobell Car Wash. Although he enjoyed the hands-on nature of the work, he found himself searching for a career that offered more stability and opportunities for growth. His search led him to Ascendum Machinery, Inc.’s Heavy Duty Equipment Technician Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP).
As someone who’s always enjoyed tinkering and working with his hands, Jacob viewed the RAP as the perfect next step.
“It’s a win-win,” he said. “You get training both in the classroom and on the job.”
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One of the many advantages of the Registered Apprenticeship model is that apprentices are paid employees from day one. This means they receive the same benefits as their colleagues while building their skills and knowledge.
To set their apprentices up for success, Ascendum Machinery also provides each of its apprentices with a toolbox stocked with $25,000 worth of tools at the start of their RAPs. Once they complete the program, the toolbox is theirs to keep.
Ascendum’s Registered Apprenticeship is no small feat — requiring apprentices to complete approximately 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 3,000 hours of supplemental classroom education. But Jacob’s drive has set him apart. Just eight months into the program, he was given permission to handle work in the field.
“I’ve kind of made myself the paver guy,” he said. “Whenever there’s a paver breakdown in the field, I go out and take care of it. I also take care of most of the ones that come into the shop.”
“Jacob has progressed through the program at an impressive speed,” said his supervisor, David Bennet, Training Manager, Ascendum Machinery. “He’s very engaged in what he’s doing, and he wants to learn. He’s hungry for education and willing to jump in where he’s needed and do the job.”
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Ascendum Machinery’s program is designed to support individuals like Jacob by offering a hybrid model that combines time-based and competency-based Registered Apprenticeship. Apprentices must complete a minimum number of hours and demonstrate proficiency in key skills to advance.
For motivated individuals like Jacob, this means they can progress through the program more quickly as they master competencies while still gaining valuable real-world experience.
Jacob’s motivation is matched by his enthusiasm for the work itself.
“It’s all fun in my eyes,” he said. “I enjoy what I do, and I really like the work environment at Ascendum [Machinery].”
Bennet echoed the sentiment, saying, “Everybody works together, we support each other, we’re there for our customers.”
With his drive and hands-on mindset, Jacob is well on his way to building a long, rewarding career at Ascendum Machinery. His progress is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
As he continues to flourish, Jacob is not only laying the foundation for a bright future but also setting an example for others considering a Registered Apprenticeship Program.
About Ascendum Machinery: Ascendum is one of the leading construction equipment dealers in the United States.
About ApprenticeshipNC: Recognized by the Office of Apprenticeship to act on behalf of the U.S. Department of Labor, ApprenticeshipNC is the State Apprenticeship Agency authorized to register apprenticeship programs tailored to meet employers’ needs.