AMPI internship offers transition to civilian careers
Some of the U.S. military’s best and brightest are coming to AMPI, thanks to the co-op’s partnership with the Department of Defense (DOD). The co-op is among U.S. companies participating in the Skillbridge program, a DOD-funded initiative that helps U.S. armed forces members transition to post-military careers.
Skillbridge interns receive hands-on training in AMPI’s plants while exploring job opportunities in dairy foods manufacturing. AMPI has participated in the program since 2023. The internships, which last between 90 and 180 days, add value to AMPI’s workforce, says Ashley Wertz, AMPI vice president of human resources.
“Veterans bring proven leadership experience and the ability to learn new systems quickly, valuable traits as they advance within the organization,” she said. “They’re dedicated, they’re focused, they’re driven, they never take no for an answer — these are the kinds of people you want in your company."
Many participants pair with companies near their hometowns, so the co-op benefits by being introduced to potential permanent employees.“The program allows us to fill staffing needs in our plants and helps us to determine if candidates are a good long-term fit for AMPI,” Wertz said.
Jay Johnson, maintenance supervisor at AMPI’s New Ulm, Minn., butter plant, began his Skillbridge internship after eight years of service in the Marine Corps. The opportunity suited him well since he had worked in vehicle maintenance and later as a recruiter while in service. At the conclusion of his internship, Johnson took on a full-time role and has remained in New Ulm since.
A Skillbridge internship turned into a fulltime position for Jay Johnson, maintenance supervisor at AMPI’s butter plant in New Ulm, Minn.
“Participating in the program made a seamless transition to civilian life for my family,” he said.
Since the program’s inception, AMPI has hosted 14 Skillbridge interns who have trained in the areas of maintenance and production supervision. The current intern is Tevin Kolve who is employed at the co-op’s Jim Falls, Wis., facility.
