In Huntsville, Alabama, Drake State Community & Technical College will launch a new Advanced Manufacturing Technician (AMT) programme starting in June 2025, aimed at addressing the growing demand for skilled manufacturing technicians. This initiative features a dual focus on hands-on training and formal education, responding to an urgent need articulated by manufacturing leaders in the region.
A ceremonial signing event on December 6 solidified the collaboration between Drake State and the newly established Huntsville Tech Federation Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) chapter. Several notable manufacturers are sponsoring students in the programme, including prominent names such as Bruderer, Blue Origin, Kohler, Mazda Toyota Manufacturing, Plasma Processes, Runergy, and Toyota Alabama.
Dr. Patricia Sims, president of Drake State, emphasised the institution's commitment to innovative educational opportunities that align with workforce needs. Speaking about the programme, she stated, “This partnership allows us to collaborate directly with industry leaders to prepare individuals for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing. This programme exemplifies the power of partnerships in creating pathways to success, and we are proud to play a role in equipping our community with the skills needed for the future.”
The AMT programme will offer students a robust curriculum that includes courses in electricity, robotics, fluid power, mechanics, fabrication, and industrial troubleshooting. Additionally, students will engage in courses covering manufacturing core exercises and professional behaviours. Upon successful completion, graduates will be positioned for lucrative careers within the high-tech manufacturing sector.
Jason Puckett, president of Toyota Alabama, expressed his support for the new FAME chapter, stating, “Toyota Alabama is proud to be the championing the newest FAME chapter at Drake State. We have seen the success of the programme here locally and at our manufacturing sites across the country. FAME allows students the highest level of hands-on training while earning certifications. This programme is about recruiting diverse, high-achieving and career-oriented students.”
The Huntsville Tech FAME chapter will become part of an established network that includes 10 existing FAME programmes within Alabama's Community College System. The FAME initiative, originally created by Toyota in 2010 to foster cooperation between employers and cultivate a skilled workforce, transitioned to the Manufacturing Institute in 2019 for national expansion.
Tony Davis, National Director of FAME USA, conveyed his enthusiasm regarding the new chapter's integration into the network. He commented, “The team at FAME USA is excited to welcome a new AL FAME chapter into our network, which represents over 40 chapters in 17 states and counting. Over 450 manufacturing partners across the nation have discovered the power of the FAME collaborative, and thousands of students have used FAME as their pathway to highly skilled maintenance roles that are in high demand.”
Applications for the inaugural class at Huntsville Tech are currently open, targeting enrolment for the Summer 2025 intake. Prospective students interested in gaining valuable insights into advanced manufacturing careers can visit hsvtechfame.com for further details and application procedures.
Source: Noah Wire Services