The Manufacturing Institute has been awarded a $1.5 million grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to create a national skills certification system to raise up a manufacturing work force among low-income individuals.
Community colleges throughout the country will participate in teaching the Manufacturing Skills Certification System — which is endorsed by the
These educational programs will help prepare students, particularly low-income young adults and transitioning workers, with entry-level skills needed to succeed in a career in manufacturing.
“We need to get kids engaged in learning, and we need to give them options,” says NAM President John Engler. “Moving these industry-recognized skills certifications into community college programs will provide meaningful, relevant education for students and ultimately produce a highly skilled and mobile work force – making us more competitive in the global economy.”
The Manufacturing Skills Certification System will help prepare individuals for manufacturing careers in a range of fields including alternative energy, computers, aerospace and pharmaceuticals.
The Manufacturing Institute is a 501(c)3 affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers. It is based in Washington, D.C. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is based in Seattle.