The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has filed a lawsuit against Tower Automotive Operations USA I, LLC, doing business as Autokiniton, alleging the company discriminated against a long-time female employee in its skilled trades apprenticeship program. The case, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, accuses the company of favoring younger male apprentices following pandemic-related layoffs, according to Law.com and the EEOC.
The EEOC alleges that the employee—Autokiniton’s only female apprentice—was not reinstated in 2022, even as three younger men were allowed to return. When she was eventually brought back in 2025, she was reportedly paid a lower apprentice wage and denied higher pay and overtime opportunities. The agency further claims the company viewed her as a “liability” due to her use of a cane, suggesting discrimination based on a perceived disability.
According to the EEOC, these actions violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). The agency seeks back pay, compensatory damages, and injunctive relief to prevent further discrimination.
For employers, the lawsuit serves as a reminder that inconsistent reinstatement and compensation practices—especially in training or apprenticeship programs—can expose companies to significant legal risk under federal anti-discrimination laws.
Outside Legal Counsel LLP advises employers on EEOC compliance, workplace investigations, and equitable employment practices. Contact us for guidance.
This is not legal advice and is attorney advertising.
Disclaimer: Nothing on this website is or should be construed as legal advice. An attorney-client relationship does not exist with our firm unless a signed retainer agreement is executed, and we do not offer legal advice through this site or any of the content located on it. For legal advice for your particular circumstances, please contact us directly.
