The Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) has approved a new South Shore INFAME Chapter. The group will provide a global-best workforce development program to college-ready students throughout Northwest Indiana who are interested in pursuing an Associate’s Degree in Advanced Manufacturing.
Area companies and educational institutions, with the support of the Center of Workforce Innovations, are partnering to provide students with technical training and hands-on experience. The charter has formed an executive board and is recruiting additional manufacturing companies with the plan to begin recruiting graduating high school students fall of 2023 where students would begin the program summer of 2024.
“FAME is a workforce training program supported by the Manufacturing Institute that follows work-and-learn model allowing students to attend community college while providing paid on-the-job work experience,” said Leah Konrady, Chapter Chairperson and CEO of Konrady Plastics. “This is a win-win-win for students looking for a career path in manufacturing, companies seeking to recruit strong talent, and higher education looking to work alongside students and employers.”
“Manufacturing is the backbone of Northwest Indiana and our country, and this program provides a pathway to sustain manufacturing in the region. With many baby boomers retiring, now is the time to bridge the age and talent gap and attract and retain the next generation of talent,” added Konrady.
In addition to Konrady Plastics, members of South Shore INFAME include KTR Corporation, Triplex Plating, American Renolit, Tristate Industries, Michigan City Paperbox, and Windeavor.
The FAME program is designed so that young people will be able to earn a sustainable wage and a potentially debt-free two-year Associates Degree in Advanced Manufacturing Technology. The newly formed chapter and board agree, this program has the potential to do a lot for the Region’s emerging workforce.
