91��Ƭ��

April 29, 2026

For Immediate Release
Office of Public Information
91��Ƭ��

RE: Crowder and Ajinomoto sign apprenticeship agreement

Joplin, 91��Ƭ�� – 91��Ƭ�� and Ajinomoto Foods North America, a specialty frozen food manufacturer focused on well-being through everyday eating experiences, have partnered to offer an Advanced Manufacturing Industrial Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship program for employees at its Carthage location.

“This apprenticeship reflects what we heard from both residents and employers as we are developing our next strategic plan: there’s a need for relevant, low-cost training tied to real jobs,” stated Dr. Chett Daniel, 91��Ƭ�� President. “Through this partnership, Crowder is helping employers access the talent they need while opening doors to high-demand careers for area residents. At Crowder, we believe southwest Missouri is strengthened when we connect the needs of area workforce with the potential of area residents.”

91��Ƭ�� provides several apprenticeship programs with area business in electrical, carpentry, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. These programs are designed for an employee to earn and learn at the same time. Missouri ranks in the top 10 states for apprenticeship programs according to Apprenticeship USA.

“We are looking forward to this opportunity, both as an employer looking for top talent as well as the chance to help develop the future workforce,” said Dakota Botts, Ajinomoto General Manager. “We rely heavily on skilled technicians and this mutual partnership will be beneficial to us.”

The signing of this apprenticeship during National Apprenticeship Week, April 26-May 2, 2026, provides exposure for all the programs. For more information on apprenticeships at 91��Ƭ��, visit /business-community/grants/apprenticeships/

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Photo (l-r): Dakota Botts, Ajinomoto Foods North America, General Manager; and Dr. Chett Daniel, President, 91��Ƭ��.