The Indiana Manufacturers Association has begun an employer-driven education program to provide skilled workers to meet the needs of the state’s manufacturing industry.
This story by Reed Parker originally appeared in Inside Indiana Business.
The Indiana Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education will collaborate with manufacturers and educational institutions to devise dual-track training to include hands-on instruction and classwork. Students completing coursework would earn an associate degree.
“INFAME is a natural complement to the recommendations of the Governor’s Workforce Cabinet and Gov. Holcomb’s 2019 workforce agenda,” said Brian Burton, president and chief executive officer of the IMA. “Our manufacturing base is critical to the state’s economic success, and this initiative will not only serve manufacturers, but also help more Hoosiers find successful and rewarding careers in the industry.”
The FAME model is currently operating in nine states, and Indiana chapters will offer businesses the opportunity to work with the IMA on education programs to meet specific needs. Ivy Tech Community College and Vincennes University will offer specifically designed associate degree programs to allow students to advance into a bachelor’s degree program.
“Toyota is excited to partner with the Indiana Manufacturers Association in launching the FAME model in Indiana to address the needs of our manufacturing industry,” said Millie Marshall, president of Toyota Manufacturing Indiana Inc. “The FAME program has a track record of developing a pipeline of the highly skilled workers who are excellent problem solvers and creating opportunities for participants to jumpstart their careers.”
INFAME will first offer an Advanced Manufacturing Technician program, which currently includes a curriculum of fluid power, motor controls, electricity, and several other areas of study. Click here to learn more about the initiative.
