Archive of recording and resources shared in the NCNGM Community of Practices. Community of Practice Archive The National Center for Next Generational Manufacturing archive of Community of Practice Resources, Videos, and Presentations. November 7th 2025 Collaboration with the National Applied AI Consortium (NAAIC) and FANUC America Corporation May 14th, 2026 Collaboration with the National Applied AI Consortium (NAAIC) and the Advanced Manufacturing Technical Education Collaborative (AMTEC). July 10th, 2026 Collaboration with the National Applied AI Consortium (NAAIC) and the Advanced Manufacturing Technical Education Collaborative (AMTEC). October 9th 2026 Collaboration with the National Applied AI Consortium (NAAIC) and the Advanced Manufacturing Technical Education Collaborative (AMTEC).

Discover why a career in advanced manufacturing is rewarding. Learn the benefits and opportunities in advanced manufacturing today! Why Choose a Career in Advanced Manufacturing? It’s now a dynamic field full of opportunity and innovation that promises a career path and job security. Today’s facilities are safe, well-lit, ventilated, and high-tech . Completing a certificate or a degree from an advanced manufacturing program at a community college is the first step to a rewarding career in manufacturing. Did You Know? There are more than 13 million manufacturing employees in the United States in 2023. By 2033, 3.8 million manufacturing jobs will likely be needed. Manufacturing workers in the US earned $98,846 on average, including pay and benefits, in 2023. Resource: National Association of Manufacturers’ Manufacturing Institute learn more about AI in MFG learn more about AI in MFG learn more about AI in MFG learn more about AI in MFG I CAN MAKE IT VIDEO CT Office of Manufacturing What's Happening? October 2026 Today Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 27 28 29 5:00 AM ChatEDU Check In 30 Day (1/2) MX.0 Midwest +1 more 1 Day (2/2) MX.0 Midwest +2 more 2 Day (3/3) NCATC +1 more 3 4 5 6 5:00 AM ChatEDU Check In 7 8 5:00 AM ChatEDU Check In 9 5:00 AM Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance +1 more 10 11 12 13 5:00 AM ChatEDU Check In 14 Day (1/3) 2026 National Summit on Artificial Intelligence 15 Day (2/3) 2026 National Summit on Artificial Intelligence +1 more 16 Day (3/3) 2026 National Summit on Artificial Intelligence +1 more 17 18 19 20 5:00 AM ChatEDU Check In 21 Day (1/3) 2026 ATE PI Conference +1 more 22 Day (2/3) 2026 ATE PI Conference +2 more 23 Day (3/3) 2026 ATE PI Conference +3 more 24 25 26 27 5:00 AM ChatEDU Check In 28 29 5:00 AM ChatEDU Check In +1 more 30 5:00 AM Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance 31 1 2 3 5:00 AM ChatEDU Check In 4 5 5:00 AM ChatEDU Check In 6 5:00 AM Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance 7

Connect with NCNGM and explore online resources, training, and events for next-generation manufacturing. Your Gateway to Next Generation Advanced Manufacturing The National Science Foundation funded National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM) website is designed to connect students, educators, industry leaders, and government representatives, promoting a skilled technical workforce for next-generation manufacturing. With a focus on fostering innovation and collaboration, NCNGM provides resources, tools, and events to support stakeholders in achieving their goals. Whether you're exploring training opportunities or seeking industry insights, NCNGM is your trusted partner in advancing manufacturing excellence. Discover how NCNGM can empower your journey in the evolving landscape of manufacturing. Learn More Learn More Community of Practice National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing News NCNGM at the 2026 CT Manufacturing Innovation Forum Under the ongoing leadership of Dr. Karen Wosczyna Birch as Executive Director and Principal Investigator, the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM) announced the renewal of its National Science Foundation (NSF) grant. This announcement was made at the 2026 Connecticut Manufacturing Innovation Forum on September 1st, 2026, attended by approximately 600 stakeholders from industry, education, student bodies, and government. Special appreciation goes to the C Sep 10 4 min read 1 2 3 4 5 Events across the nation What's Happening? Multiple Dates Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance Fri, Oct 09 Podcast Learn more Multiple Dates ChatEDU Check In Tue, Oct 13 Podcast Learn more 2026 National Summit on Artificial Intelligence Wed, Oct 14 Chandler Gilbert Community College RSVP 2026 ATE PI Conference Wed, Oct 21 Omni Shoreham Hotel RSVP Fabtech Wed, Oct 21 Las Vegas RSVP 2026 Emerging Technologies Forum Fri, Oct 23 101 College St RSVP Load More Leadership Partners For a comprehensive list of our partners and collaborators click HERE

Discover how nextgen manufacturing is revolutionizing education and workforce development with industry-leading initiatives. National Science Foundation Funding Our National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education (NSF ATE) funding began in 2004 with a grant to create the NSF Regional Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (RCNGM) in Connecticut through the Connecticut College of Technology . Two additional rounds of funding were awarded to expand the NSF RCNGM in New England. In 2019, a final round of funding was awarded to transition the RCNGM into the NSF Resource Center for Next Generation Manufacturing. In 2021, funding was awarded to the NSF National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM). The NCNGM builds on the proven strategies, resources, and accomplishments of the RCNGM as well as those of the national partners that are a part of the Center. National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education Program For over 30 years the National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education Program (NSF ATE) has supported partnerships between two-year institutions of higher education, other academic institutions, industry and other entities to improve the education of technicians in science and engineering. Focused on technician education with leadership from community college faculty, the NSF ATE program funds projects that include curriculum development; professional development of college faculty and secondary school teachers; career pathway development for both students and incumbent workers; and other activities, including applied research projects that advance the knowledge base related to technician education. You can learn more about the NSF ATE program through ATE Central , the ATE Impacts Book , and the annual Evalu-ATE Survey of ATE projects and centers . The National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing leadership partners represent these institutions and technical teams: Mechatronics, Welding, Supply Chain Management, Advanced Manufacturing: Various, and AI Professional development for secondary, and post-secondary education. From Regional to National Central Community College, Nebraska College of the Canyons, California Columbus State Community College, Ohio Connecticut State Community College, Connecticut EdAdvance, Connecticut Lorain County Community College, Ohio Miami Dade College, Florida To cultivate and nurture relationships among new partners in collaboration with high school, community college, and university educators, industry, government agencies, NSF ATE Centers, next generation manufacturing projects, and other stakeholders interested in further development to create a qualified technical workforce and a larger pool for National Science Foundation projects and programs. MISSION GOAL ONE Enhance and solidify relationships and communication among educators, businesses, industry, government, military, trade associations, and economic development agencies to broaden and strengthen efforts to prepare qualified technicians for the various NGM careers. GOAL TWO Coordinate, create, and support the implementation of a Next Generation Manufacturing education repository for educators, industry, and the workforce education system that integrates industry-driven competencies needed to support Industry 4.0, 5.0, and emerging technologies, including using Open Educational Resources (OER) and online methodologies. GOAL THREE Coordinate, create, and support the implementation of professional development opportunities for educators using promising practices gleaned from NSF ATE projects, centers, and national stakeholders to address current and future NGM technology competencies. GOAL FOUR Coordinate and promote careers in Next Generation Manufacturing through a national network that includes community colleges, NSF ATE Centers and projects, and national organizations to support a qualified technician workforce through regional outreach, recruitment, mentoring, and dissemination initiatives across NGM technician education programs. National Science Foundation funded National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing Lets Work Together First Name Last Name Email Message Thanks for submitting! Send

Boost your career with our Professional Development Programming. Explore tailored resources and join a thriving education community today! Professional Development Programming Professional Development Summer Mechatronics Professional Development The National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing is partnering with Central Community College in Columbus, Nebraska, to offer Professional Development opportunities with high schools and colleges in the summer. If you are interested in attending, please complete the following information and return as soon as possible as class size is limited. Dates for the 2027 training is listed below. Classes must be taken in sequence. It works best if a Community College instructor attends with a high school facilitator who may have an interest in offering dual credit, hands-on training with their local high school. COURSE ONE: Concepts of Electronics Tuesday, June 8 through Friday, June 11, 2027 COURSE TWO: Intro to Instrumentation Monday, June 14 through Thursday, June 17, 2027 COURSE THREE: Intro to PLCs COURSE Tuesday, June 22 through Friday, June 25, 2027 FOUR: Application of Industrial Sensors Monday, June 28 through Wednesday, June 30, 2027 Download 2027 flyer with information on how to register through Central Community College here. Summer Teacher Workshop Professional Development This four-day workshop lets you connect with your peers across the United States in an online seminar. This program is highly rated by teachers and faculty who have participated in the previous in-person and virtual versions. The workshop will help you learn how to instruct your students in developing essential teambuilding skills as well as provide technology related experiences to help you integrate your learning into your STEM classroom and lab environment. The teambuilding, professional, and technical skills presented in the program are designed to apply to your classroom directly. Technology Topics & Skills Including: Programming using micro:bits DC Electrical Circuits 3D Printing/Additive Manufacturing SolidWorks 3D Modeling Artificial Intelligence Laser Technologies Teambuilding Topics & Skills Including: Development & Preservation of Effective Teams Understanding Behavioral Diversity using DISC Professional & Interpersonal Skills Emotional Intelligence

Explore our Video Collection for engaging educational content. Dive into our Video Collection to enhance your learning experience today! Video Collection All Videos All Categories Play Video Play Video 00:48 Central Community College Plastics Program Play Video Play Video 01:41 Central Community College Mechatronics Workshop Recap 2026 Play Video Play Video 02:40 You Belong in MFG: Shelby, Test Technician Video This video, by the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM), profiles Shelby Baker, a test technician for Whelen Engineering Company. Shelby describes her role at Whelen, her personal reasons for choosing her career, her previous and continuing manufacturing education, and the benefits of working in manufacturing. The video is part of a series by NCNGM called "You Belong in Manufacturing" focusing on the importance of educating women in the manufacturing field, as well as the advantages of working in a high-tech manufacturing setting that is inclusive towards women. Play Video Play Video 03:07 You Belong in MFG: Jessica, Welder This video, by the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM), profiles Jessica Templeton, a welder at CAMM Metals. Jessica describes her role at CAMM, her personal reasons for choosing her career, her manufacturing education, and the benefits of working in manufacturing. The video is part of a series by NCNGM called "You Belong in Manufacturing" focusing on the importance of educating women in the manufacturing field, as well as the advantages of working in a high-tech manufacturing setting that is inclusive towards women Play Video Play Video 05:49 You Belong in MFG: Overview; Women in MFG DVD The National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM) focuses on the importance of educating women in the manufacturing field, as well as the advantages of working in a high-tech manufacturing setting that is inclusive towards women. The NCNGM is directed by the Connecticut College of Technology (CCOT), a virtual organization representing technology curriculum geared toward engineering and technical training offered at Connecticut's 12 community colleges. This video provides a brief overview of the role women have played in manufacturing since World War II and progressing through the twenty-first century. This video profiles several women employed at various levels within the manufacturing sector. Those interviewed share their personal reasons for choosing this specific career path, as well as the benefits of working in manufacturing as a woman. The video also touches on the educational options available for those wishing to pursue a career in highly technical manufacturing. Play Video Play Video 02:53 You Belong in MFG A'arika Mechanical Design Engineer Play Video Play Video 03:07 You Belong in MFG: Myrna; Applications, Research and Development Engineer This video, by the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM), profiles Myrna Reyes, a research and development engineer for TRUMPF Inc. Myrna describes her role at TRUMPF, her personal reasons for choosing her career, her manufacturing education, and the benefits of working in manufacturing. The video is part of a series by NCNGM called "You Belong in Manufacturing" focusing on the importance of educating women in the manufacturing field, as well as the advantages of working in a high-tech manufacturing setting that is inclusive towards women. Play Video Play Video 02:54 You Belong in MFG: Laurie, Quality Manager This video, by the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM), profiles Laurie Catalano, a Competence Center Quality Manager at Eppendorf. Laurie describes her role at Eppendorf, her personal reasons for choosing her career, her manufacturing education, and the benefits of working in manufacturing. The video is part of a series by NCNGM called "You Belong in Manufacturing" focusing on the importance of educating women in the manufacturing field, as well as the advantages of working in a high-tech manufacturing setting that is inclusive towards women. Play Video Play Video 03:36 You Belong in MFG: Shelley, Operations Manager This video, by the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM), profiles Shelley Fasano, an operations manager at Dymotek Corporation. Shelley describes her role at Dymotek, her personal reasons for choosing her career, her manufacturing education, and the benefits of working in manufacturing. The video is part of a series by NCNGM called "You Belong in Manufacturing" focusing on the importance of educating women in the manufacturing field, as well as the advantages of working in a high-tech manufacturing setting that is inclusive towards women. For the rest of the videos in the series see the NCNGM website. Play Video Play Video 06:34 ATE Impacts - Asnuntuck Karen Wosczyna-Birch partnered with local industry to update manufacturing curriculum, and to address CT workforce needs. Play Video Play Video 01:10:34 NCNGM Nov 2025 Community of Practice NCNGM Community of Practice in partnership with NAAIC and FANUC America Corporation Play Video Play Video 05:16 ATE Student Success Stories - Wesley Wesley Hipolito was introduced to machining technology through the College Connection Program at Asnuntuk Community College. Load More

Discover how our Business and Industry Leadership Team drives innovation in the education community. Join our Business and Industry Leadership Team today! Business and Industry Leadership Team BILT KSAs The National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing parter Business & Industry Leadership Team (BILT) has generously provided Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs) for your consideration. Knowledge Skills and Abilities The National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing is partnering with BILT, to offer Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities for manufacturing are provided for downloading below. CNC Machining KSAs Plastics Injection Molding KSAs Smart Automation KSAs Mechatronics KSAs Multicraft KSAs Dr. Ann Beheler is the Industry Engagement Director who strategically leads the Business Industry Leadership Team (BILT) high employer engagement model she developed for the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing. She has taught hundreds of colleges and universities to implement the model to deepen their employer relationships and align curriculum. Additionally, due to her work with Miami Dade College and the National Applied Artificial Intelligence Consortium, she is uniquely positioned to lead upcoming industry-led work for integrating AI into Manufacturing programs. Over the past several years, she has dedicated herself to helping educators to better align undergraduate education in technical fields to the future knowledge, skill, and ability needs of business and industry through the BILT process she originated. This work has resulted in a much wider pipeline of well-qualified job candidates and increasing business engagement with higher education programs overall. BILT Academy for Manufacturing Applications for the Business and Industry Leadership Team Academy for Manufacturing are now open. Click the button for the download. Download Let’s Work Together Get in touch so we can start working together. First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting!

Explore the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing Summit 2025 Gallery. Access presentations from Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3 now! National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing Summit 2025 Hosted by FANUC America Corporation in partnership with the National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers Overview of Summit Activities Attendees were able to participate in facility tours, networking opportunities, hand-on sessions and listened to many organizations initiatives. Our robust agenda is available via PDF for your reference. Download PDF Guest Presenters Matt Kirchner, Dr. Karen Wosczyna-Birch, Joe Baldiga, Tony Nighswander, Claude Dinsmoor, Paul Aiello, Drew “The MFG” Crowe, Tim Baber, Jerry Muller, Chris Dennis, Eric Flynn, Paul Lavoie, Dr. Suj Chandrasekhar, Dr. Ann Beheler, Dayonte Grimes, Carver Middleton, Michael Cook, Richard Polanin, Mark Kappes, Jake Gorden, Debra Basso, Katie Austin, Nivedhitha (Neethu) Giri, Jessica Juhasz, John Wheeler, Mark Kappes, and Mike Sauter. Supporting Organizations ACCUFACTURE LLC, APT Manufacturing Solutions, American Welding Society, CORD (Center for Occupational Research & Development), DeafTEC, FANUC Education Solution Providers, Fronius USA, Levil Technology, Lincoln Electric Automation, Michigan Department of Corrections, National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers (NCATC), National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement, National Technical Institute for the Deaf, National Science Foundation, Miller Electric Mfg. LLC, NOCTI, OTTO by Rockwell Automation, Rockwell Automation, Rochester Institute of Technology, Weld-Ed “Listen, understand and share!- Thank you to Next Gen Manufacturing, NSF and FANUC for hosting such a thoughtful event focused on building the best most capable workforce in advanced manufacturing. It was humbling to be amongst such dedicated and smart people making a big difference for us all!" Michael Cook, Rockwell Automation Presentations ***Please note that the presentations are the intellectual property of their presenters and should not be redistributed without permission and credit*** Day 1 Matt Kirchner – Keynote Speaker; Host of TechEd Podcast Dr. Karen Wosczyna-Birch – Executive Director, National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing Joe Baldiga – National Education Program Manager, FANUC America Tony Nighswander – President, APT Manufacturing Solutions Claude Dinsmoor – FANUC America Artificial Intelligence Paul Aiello – FANUC America Emerging Technologies Presentation Drew “The MFG” Crowe – Founder, Manufacturing Renaissance & Youth Advocate Tim Baber, Full-Time Professor, Department Chair of Welding Technology, College of the Canyons, and Co-Principal Investigator NCNGM Jerry Muller, Industrial Technology Coordinator and Trainer, Central Community College, and Co-Principal Investigator NCNGM Chris Dennis, Assistant Professor, Supply Chain Management, Columbus State Community College, and co-Principal Investigator NCNGM Eric Flynn, Professor at Connecticut State Community College, Faculty Technical Lead of MET², and Co-Principal Investigator of CICSTART. Day 2 Paul Lavoie Co-Keynote – Former CT Chief Manufacturing Officer and Current VP of Innovation and Applied Technology at University of New Haven, CT. Dr. Suj Chandrasekhar Co-Keynote – Founder, Strategic Insights (Leveraging AI Platforms) Dr. Ann Beheler – NCNGM Leadership & BILT - Employer-led Community College Programs w/ Emphasis on AI in Manufacturing Dayonte Grimes – Lapeer High School Instructor, Michigan Carver Middleton - Mississippi State AiM-Up Program Rockwell Automation Michael Cook, Director Industry-Academia Engagement. AWS American Welding Joe Young, Associate Director of the AWS Foundation. Weld-ED Richard Polanin, Co-Principal Investigator for Weld-Ed, the National Center for Welding Education and Training & Tim Baber Day 3 Drew “The MFG” Crowe, Founder, Manufacturing Renaissance & Youth Advocate Fair Chance Hiring & Second Chance Employment Panel - Drew Crowe, Mark Kappes, Gateway Technical College Women in Robotics - Panel Discussion - Debra Basso, Director R&D Product Information and Development Systems at FANUC America Corporation; Katie Austin, Applications Engineer, General Industries and Automotive FANUC America Corporation; Nivedhitha (Neethu) Giri Engineering Leader in Robotics R&D and Industrial Automation; Jessica Juhasz, Engineering Manager FANUC America Corporation The Uniquely Abled Project John Wheeler, Mark Kappes – Gateway Technical College STEM Accessibility Initiatives - Mike Sauter, Adjunct faculty at National Institute for the Deaf (NTID), DeafTEC, Project Good to Go, and Accessibility Expert for AccessATE. APT Manufacturing FANUC Education Solution Providers Fronius Levil Technology Lincoln Electric National Institute of Industry and Career Advancement (NiiCA) National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Miller Welding Access Our Gallery on Flickr

Educators and Counselors The following resources are for educators and counselors to explore what the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing can offer you. This includes links to resource pages for faculty, academic counselors in high school or higher education, and more! NCNGM Webinars View our archive of past webinars. Sign up to be a member on our site to gain exclusive early access to our more recent webinars, recordings and materials. Learn and apply to nationwide virtual workshops and professional development. Virtual Workshops Professional Development Opportunities Learn and apply to our web-based or in-person workshops in partnership with community colleges across the nation. Career Resources for Your Students Refer your students to our Student & Parents page for more information. Grant Funding and Mentorship NCNGM offers funding through our grant and mentorship opportunities with subject matter experts in the academic sector. Curriculum Development Resources Repository of curriculum development resources and files. These materials are provided with the permission of their authors and should be credited if used elsewhere. Partners & Collaborators Visit Partners & Collaborators for Additional Resources

Discover modern opportunities for women in manufacturing. Explore resources, guides, and inspiration for your journey. You Belong: Women in MFG Outreach Materials and Resources You Belong: Women in Manufacturing teacher’s guide and accompanying video series are designed to show women that they can make a significant impact on America's economy and quality of life through manufacturing. We encourage you to help your female students explore the opportunities manufacturing offers! Click the image below to download the pdf Watch the videos below Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Now Playing You Belong in MFG: Overview; Women in MFG DVD 05:49 Play Video Now Playing You Belong in MFG: Salaries & Hot Jobs; Women in MFG DVD 01:20 Play Video Now Playing You Belong in MFG: Getting There; Women in MFG DVD 06:21 Play Video Discover the thriving world of women in manufacturing with our comprehensive resources. From scholarships and organizations to inspiring videos and guides, we provide the tools you need to excel. Learn about women breaking barriers in STEM and manufacturing, and get motivated by stories of success. Whether you're exploring careers, seeking support, or looking to empower others, our platform is here to inspire and guide you. Start your journey today and join the movement of women shaping the future of manufacturing. SCHOLARSHIPS FOR WOMEN Society of Women Engineers Scholarships ORGANIZATIONS Coding Organizations for Women in Tech Women in MFG ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Women in STEM Where Women Study STEM Encouraging Women in STEM Women in Cybersecurity STEM Careers Computer Scientist: Grace Hopper Profile Financial Resources for Women in STEM Free STEM Resources for Girls and Women in AI, Machine Learning, and Data Science Link to WiM Calendar of Events WOMEN IN MFG VIDEOS Society of Women Engineers Women in Manufacturing American Welding Society

Advanced manufacturing offers exciting career opportunities that today’s young people can be passionate about. Help point your students in the right direction. Use the tools found throughout this site to get your students plugged into an industry where they can find great, high-paying careers they can be proud of! Professional Organizations & Credentials *indicates student chapters available Association for Career and Technical Education Center for Occupational Research and Development (CORD) Manufacturing Extension Partnerships/NIST Society of Manufacturing Engineers* American Society for Engineering Education* Fabricators and Manufacturers Association* National Council for Advanced Manufacturing The Robotics/Automation and Cybersecurity Knowledge Sharing Coordination Network American Welding Society* International Technology and Engineering Educators Association* NIMS American Graduate Jobs Explained The Manufacturing Institute* National Information Technology Innovation Center AVS Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) Smart Automation Certification Alliance

Explore cutting-edge Advanced Manufacturing Education. Join our Education Community to enhance your skills in Advanced Manufacturing Education today! Advanced Manufacturing Education Click the logo to find out more about the Advanced Technological Education Centers and access resources and events on the website. Tackle the Gap Train for a high-paying skilled trade while you compete in intercollegiate athletics! tacklethegap.org YOU CAN TRAIN FOR A HIGH PAYING SKILLED TRADE WHILE YOU COMPETE IN INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS! There are hundreds of two year trade schools, junior and community colleges, all across the country, that provide training for high paying and in demand skilled trades, as well as, compete in multiple sports. The trades are not "dark, dirty and dangerous" like in generations past. They are clean, modern and high tech. There are projected to be over 3 Million unfilled openings in the skilled trades by 2028. Not only are these jobs in high demand in your hometown, but you will have skills that transfer anywhere in America and beyond. THE NEXT, NEXT LEVEL Competing in intercollegiate athletics at a two-year school will enable you to improve your skills, gain strength and accumulate film for 4-year university coaches. Everyone on the roster is a freshman or sophomore, so you don't have to compete with upperclassmen for playing time. You will have the opportunity to improve your academics to meet the entrance and eligibility requirements of a 4-year school while earning an Associate's degree or certification in an high paying and in demand skill. Learn about many of the trades by visiting their website ! Sparkforce by the FMA Foundation "Formerly known as Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs (or NBT), SparkForce is the charitable foundation of the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association. While their name has changed, the mission has not. FMA's purpose is to inspire, attract, and support individuals in discovering an interest in manufacturing and to encourage their pursuit of a manufacturing career." The Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education provides global-best workforce development through strong technical training, integration of manufacturing core competencies, intensive professional practices and intentional hands-on experience to build the future of the modern manufacturing industry. FAME was created by Toyota and moved to the Manufacturing Institute for national scaling in 2019. Today, the Manufacturing Institute, as the workforce development and education partner of the National Association of Manufacturers , is proud to manage FAME USA as it continues to grow across the country with the support of more than 450 manufacturers. I GOT IT MADE "Connecticut’s Office of Manufacturing creates a strong partnership between the State’s resources and the manufacturing sector. Together, we spark innovation, expand our reach, and give more people the opportunity to make a life out of making." Access the Connecticut Office of Manufacturing look book by clicking the image on the left. MET ² Program The Mechanical and Manufacturing Technologies for Energy and Sustainability (MET² ) Program better prepares community college and college or university mechanical manufacturing engineering and technology students with technical, social, professional, and entrepreneurial skills required to meet today’s workforce demands. MET² Program provides genuine, real-world challenges or problems to fuel projects explored by self-managed Program Teams of students. Program Teams are inter-institutional, interdisciplinary, and self-managed to capitalize on the synergy between the theoretical knowledge of university students and faculty (Partner universities in Connecticut), complemented by the requisite hands-on technical skills of community college students and faculty (Connecticut State Community College). Program Teams will meet and conduct research culminating in a professional-level final report and presentation. Applications for the 2026 MET2 Cohort are now open. All Required Application Materials must be submitted no later than Friday, December 5th, 2025, to ensure consideration. Admission to the MET² Program is based on various criteria, with all factors in the applicant's background considered. The MET² Program welcomes your application and inquiries. For further assistance, please contact, John Birch, Executive Director MET²