Ask economic development experts which country has the most successful advanced-manufacturing apprenticeship program on the planet, and the answer will quite likely be Germany.

That’s no surprise. Well-structured apprenticeships are a key factor helping German companies remain world beaters in high-quality manufacturing in the face of intense global competition.

The German approach successfully combines several elements: Training methods with proven effectiveness. Constructive partnerships between private-sector companies and educational institutions. Success in achieving buy-in from companies, even though firms have to make a financial commitment.

Now, this approach is starting in Nebraska. It’s a promising opportunity to help meet the state’s need for adequately trained workers in a 21st-century economy where the skill demands are growing ever higher.

Two German companies with American headquarters in Nebraska — CLAAS of America and Graepel North America — are the first to sign up. Through the three-year apprenticeship program, youths will work and earn on the job while also receiving training through Metropolitan Community College.