Chipotle Mexican Grill is expanding its apprenticeship program to develop future leaders as it targets 7000 restaurants across the country and in Canada.

The fast-casual chain says it plans to place an apprentice in every company-owned restaurant to strengthen its management bench.

An apprentice role is a mid-level management training position designed to prepare employees to become general managers. Apprentices currently support about three-quarters of Chipotle’s restaurants.

Chipotle said this career development pathway enables employees to progress from crew member to general manager before advancing into field and regional leadership positions.

“Every crew member we hire has the potential to become a future restaurant leader,” said Ilene Eskenazi, chief legal and HR officer.

“Developing leaders from within allows us to create meaningful careers for our people while ensuring every restaurant is led by someone who understands our culture and our commitment to exceptional guest experiences.”

• Further reading: Chipotle ‘back on the right track’ following robust first quarter.