Crowder and Ajinomoto sign apprenticeship agreement. * News Credits Writer Cindy Brown Date April 29, 2026 April 29, 2026 For Immediate Release Office of Public Information Crowder College RE: Crowder and Ajinomoto sign apprenticeship agreement Joplin, MO - Crowder College and Ajinomoto have partnered to offer an Advanced Manufacturing Industrial Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship program for employees at its Joplin 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, Crowder College 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." Crowder College 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," said Dakota Botts, 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 Crowder College, visit https://www.crowder.edu/business-community/grants/apprenticeships/ ### Photo (l-r): Dakota Botts, Ajinomoto, General Manager; and Dr. Chett Daniel, President, Crowder College. May History Symposium to Feature Bluegrass Music

UK activist investor Palliser has acquired a stake in Japanese company Ajinomoto, pushing for price increases on ABF, a key material used in advanced chipmaking substrates. Ajinomoto's shares have surged over 40% year-to-date, reflecting strong market interest and investor confidence in the company's prospects.