Opening for its third season on Tuesday, Jan. 23, the MARS Apprentice Program is back and stronger and more stimulating than ever. Like Donald Trump's television show, now set in L.A., McMaster's apprentice will take on new twists and new challenges.

The contest, which sees undergraduate students competing in real life business challenges, has been extended to five successive weeks. Twelve of DeGroote's brightest students will compete on two teams for four internship positions offered by host companies.

Also up for grabs is a full year tuition reimbursement for one contestant sponsored by Harvey's Canada. As well, this year's Apprentice includes two candidates from McMaster's Engineering Management Program.

The focus is once again on experiential education. Mandeep Malik, faculty advisor, says, “We must train our students to hit the ground running. Competitions like MARS Apprentice help us achieve this goal.”

Host companies include Jan Kelley Marketing, Frito-Lay Canada, Maple Leaf Foods, RBC Royal Bank and Harvey's. The candidates this year were selected in consultation with Allegis Group Canada, and will receive ongoing coaching through Cheryl Breukelman and associates. As well, Xerox Canada is providing critical leadership profiling for each candidate.

Students who participate in the Apprentice maintain a full course load in addition to the work involved in each challenge, which includes researching, preparing and presenting a plan to company representatives.

Brad Wurthman, an Apprentice candidate from the first season and now a marketing co-ordinator with the TICATS says, “This is great preparation for the hectic pace of the 'real' business world.”

“We are looking for future leaders,” says Richard Glover of Frito-Lay Canada. “The MARS Apprentice Program is just the kind of partner we need to find the best of the best.”