Work-Based Learning for Students at Ruan Transportation Management Systems

During the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Future Ready DSM podcast, guests share insights about the employment landscape for people entering the workforce, as well as those looking to advance or change their career paths with The Partnership’s Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer Dr. Marvin DeJear.

The most recent episode of Future Ready DSM welcomed Dan Greteman, the now retired Chief Information Officer & Transformation Leader for Ruan Transportation Management Systems, who discussed the North American carrier that employs more than 5,000 employees, with 4,000+ trucks across the country and its work-based learning opportunities for students in Greater Des Moines (DSM).

Work-Based Learning Initiatives

At Ruan, work-based learning targets high school through college-aged students. The company has four or five major programs, including IT and technician Registered Apprenticeship Programs, as well as internship opportunities within the organization. Greteman said that Ruan is a forward-looking company that wants to invest in the future. By spending extra money on trucks and investing in technology and safety, Ruan gains access to talent with high potential. Once apprentices and interns get experience and learn the technology at Ruan, many find jobs and careers within the company.

When starting the technology Registered Apprenticeship Program, Ruan targeted specific opportunities. As the program progressed, Greteman said they learned that in almost every aspect of IT, they could have students learning and experiencing multiple focuses and paths into technology.

Recommendations for Employers + Students

Employers should have a long-term plan for students participating in apprenticeship and internship programs, meaning you need consistent talent and pathways through the programs, including pay, hours, a grading system, etc. Greteman said Ruan is constantly bringing in new talent and continuing the pipeline. Their goal is to give students an alternative path where they can follow a path and find a career through on-the-job training.

In 15-20 years, Greteman said he hopes that students who have gone through work-based learning at Ruan are still with the company and honing their skills. Technology is ever-changing and the company gives employees the opportunity to stay on top of and apply new tech.

Find more information about Ruan internship opportunities, benefits and sign up for job alerts here.

Listen to the entire podcast above.

The Future Ready DSM podcast brings Greater Des Moines (DSM) employment leaders and experts in to discuss the latest trends in talent attraction and retention in the region. Hosted by Greater Des Moines Partnership Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer Dr. Marvin DeJear.