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Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing The following resources are for all stakeholders to explore what the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing can offer you. This includes links to AI literacy, Industrial AI, Cybersecurity, and other emerging technologies! AI in MFG Resources Many major players in industry are investing in AI, but understand the gap in learning. These articles provide insight to the state of Artificial Intelligence in the Manufacturing sector. Industry 5.0 Defining Industry 5.0, its relationship to AI in manufacturing, and refining pre-existing ideas from Industry 4.0. AI Literacy Resources for educators on Artificial Intelligence Literacy and what that means for education for all levels of education. AI Informational Videos Informational videos on different aspects and kinds of AI. National AI Initiatives NCNGM AI initiatives and partnerships. AI Curriculum Resources Details on Artificial Intelligence, including AI literacy, industrial AI uses, and curriculum development. (Coming Soon) Partners & Collaborators Visit Partners & Collaborators for Additional Resources

Industry and Resources The following resources are for industry and stakeholders to explore what the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing can offer you. This includes links to resource pages for industry, government agencies, non profits, and more! Join Our Community of Practice Join our Community of Practice to connect with other stakeholders including but not limited to: Academia, Industry, and Government agencies. Become a BILT Member Join our Business and Industry Leadership Team to keep advanced manufacturing knowledge skills and abilities (KSA) up to date. Women in Manufacturing Best practices and resources for all featuring videos from Women in Manufacturing (WiM) and the NCNGM You Belong video series. Become an NCNGM Collaborator Contact the NCNGM Team to become an industry collaborator. Industry 5.0 Learn about emerging technologies such as the distinction between Industry 5.0 and 4.0, cybersecurity, and more. AI in Manufacturing Explore our upcoming AI Initiatives and resources. Career Descriptions and Opportunities Browse our industry specifications for technician education in different advanced manufacturing disciplines. Veterans Best practices and resources for all, featuring the NCNGM "You Belong" video series. Partners & Collaborators Visit Partners & Collaborators for Additional Resources

Explore our Video Collection for engaging educational content. Dive into our Video Collection to enhance your learning experience today! Video Collection Video Collection All Categories 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 05:13 ATE Student Success Stories - Josiah Josiah Roberts successfully completed a two-year program at Naugatuck Valley Community College and is now transferring into a four-year. 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. 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 06:21 You Belong in MFG: Getting There; Women in MFG DVD Video #2 from the You Belong: Women in Manufacturing Career Pathways DVD. Play Video Play Video 01:20 You Belong in MFG: Salaries & Hot Jobs; Women in MFG DVD Video #3 from the You Belong: Women in Manufacturing Career Pathways DVD. Play Video Play Video 02:53 You Belong in MFG A'arika Mechanical Design Engineer 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 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 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 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. Load More

Students and Parents The following resources are for students and parents to explore what the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing can offer you. This includes links to resource pages for high school students, prospective community college students, and more! Experience Manufacturing Experience Manufacturing through nationwide initiatives including but not limited to MFG Day by the National Association of Manufacturers. Career Descriptions & Opportunities Explore career pathways, resources, and descriptions on this informative page. Women in Manufacturing Best practices and resources for all featuring videos from Women in Manufacturing (WiM) and the NCNGM You Belong video series. Student Success Stories Video profiles of Success Stories by past students in advanced manufacturing technician education. Podcast Recommendations NCNGM recommended podcasts. Including the NCNGM sponsored podcast ChatEDU, an AI in Education podcast hosted by Skills21 at EdAdvance. Advanced Manufacturing Education Browse advanced manufacturing initiatives to help your journey in technician education, whether you are pursuing a certificate, stackable credentials, associates or 4 year degree or beyond. Scholarships Comprehensive list of scholarships available. Click the link descriptions for deadlines. Veterans Professional Organizations & Credentials Best practices and resources for all, featuring the NCNGM "You Belong" video series. List of professional organizations in manufacturing and engineering. Partners & Collaborators Visit Partners & Collaborators for Additional Resources

Explore AI Nationwide Initiatives to learn about Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies Initiatives. Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies Initiatives Skills21 at EdAdvance Artificial Intelligence tools are influencing our lives and redefining education and the workforce at a rapid pace. Vital skills such as communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, managing ambiguity, and creativity are becoming increasingly important as we prepare students, teachers, and employees for a future deeply intertwined with AI. The Skills21 team supports schools, organizations, and businesses looking to amplify their success through GenAI. This work includes keynote presentations, hands-on training, and AI tools. For more info, contact: Matt Mervis, Director of Skills21 and AI Strategy, at EdAdvance. mervis@edadvance.org National Applied AI Consortium NAAIC is transforming how AI is taught at community colleges nationwide. Through strategic partnerships with leading technology companies and educational institutions, we provide the resources, training, and connections faculty need to teach AI effectively, helping colleges develop programs that create accessible pathways to high-demand careers. For whom is NAAIC: Faculty who need specialized training to teach cutting-edge AI concepts and technologies College Administrators seeking guidance on developing effective AI programs that serve their communities Industry Partners who understand what skills are needed in the workforce and have educational resources to share NAAIC serves as the bridge between these communities, facilitating collaboration, resource-sharing, and best practices at a national scale. For more info, contact: naaic@mdc.edu Sustainable Living Lab (SL2) Sustainable Living Lab (SL2) is a sustainability consultancy and innovation lab founded in Singapore in 2011. Our skillset lies in building comprehensive sustainability strategies that leverage technologies across our clients’ businesses. Our clients include several Governments, international development organisations, leading MNCs, and SMEs. Our skillset is in utilising technology as a lever for sustainability and following a community-driven approach to implementation. We have a strong presence in Asia and beyond, with teams in Singapore, Indonesia, India, and the US. Our projects span 40 countries. For more information contact: info@sustainablelivinglab.org

HAVE QUESTIONS? WANT MORE INFORMATION? If you would benefit from knowing more about manufacturing, fill out the quick form below, and we will provide you with the support and resources you need to get started! Frequently asked questions Partnerships Programs and Resources Careers in Manufacturing Events Scholarships Who are NCNGM's industry partners? NCNGM collaborates with a range of industry partners, including leading manufacturing companies and educational institutions, to provide comprehensive support and opportunities for students and educators. Click here for our comprehensive list of partners & collaborators. Contact Whether you're a high school educator, community college educator, university educator, industry professional, government agency, ATE Central project or center, or a stakeholder in next generation manufacturing , you're a part of our community. We're here to provide everyone with the necessary resources through a national advanced manufacturing education repository. National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing CT State Community College (Tunxis Campus) 271 Scott Swamp Road Farmington, CT 06032 mtaverner.ncngm@gmail.com First Name Last Name Business Email Location and State Occupation and/or Organization Send Thanks for submitting!

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 College of Technology Seamless Pathways You can design your education to match your interests, abilities, and ambitions. COT faculty and staff are available to help you find the right road to your future success. Many options are offered through the COT. These programs also provide a seamless pathway for community college students to continue their studies as juniors in engineering, engineering technology, or industrial technology programs at partnership universities/colleges. How to start your path? Enroll in a COT Program The COT offers a specialized curriculum allowing students to complete an A.S. degree in Technology Studies or Engineering Science at Connecticut State Community College. Connecticut's community colleges are affordable, flexible, and geographically convenient for students statewide. They offer programs to prepare students for careers in high-growth fields, such as precision machining, welding, and mechatronics. Students enroll in these programs through the Connecticut State Community College application process . The Engineering Science A.S. degree will provide students with the first two years of a typical engineering degree focusing on engineering theory and calculus. Students who complete the A.S. degree can transfer to a COT partner university to complete designated Engineering B.S. degrees. The Technology Studies pathway has certificates and A.S. degree options that allow students to learn the knowledge and skills within a specific high-demand technology field. The Technology Studies curriculum is very hands-on and includes opportunities for internships and apprenticeships. Upon completing a Technology Studies A.S. degree, students can transfer to Central, Eastern, and Southern Connecticut State Universities or the University of Hartford to complete designated B.S. degrees. Technology Studies A.S. degree options and credit certifications include: Work with Your Advisor and COT Site Coordinator Faculty Member As you work through your degree, stay in contact with your advisor to ensure you are following the COT program. Deviation from the required curriculum may result in loss of credits upon transfer or added to time complete your A.S. degree. Each community college has a designated College of Technology Site Coordinator knowledgeable about COT requirements and transfer options. Site Coordinators will also guide you as to which electives will satisfy transfer requirements for a specific university. Complete your A.S. degree and apply for transfer In order to be eligible for seamless transfer to a partner university, you must complete the A.S. degree and graduate from CT State Community College. Transferring before completing the A.S. degree may result in a loss of credits or added time to complete the degree. Complete your B.S. degree at a COT partner university Once enrolled in your transfer university, an advisor there will help you map out the rest of your degree.

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 What's Happening? January 2026 Today Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 28 29 30 31 1 2 12:00 PM Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance +1 more 3 4 5 6 7 8 4:00 PM Manufacturing Celebration of Innovation +1 more 9 5:00 AM Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance +1 more 10 11 12 13 14 15 11:00 AM CONNEX Update Webinar +1 more 16 5:00 AM Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance +1 more 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 5:00 AM Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance +1 more 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 5:00 AM Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance +1 more 31 1 2 Day (1/5) Conference for Industry and Education Collaboration (CIEC) +1 more 3 Day (2/5) Conference for Industry and Education Collaboration (CIEC) +1 more +2 more 4 Day (3/5) Conference for Industry and Education Collaboration (CIEC) +1 more +2 more 5 Day (4/5) Conference for Industry and Education Collaboration (CIEC) +1 more 6 Day (5/5) Conference for Industry and Education Collaboration (CIEC) +2 more +3 more 7

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

Explore Veteran Resources and Army Credentialing Assistance. Discover how our education community supports veterans with credentialing assistance. Discover a wealth of resources tailored for veterans, from scholarships and transition programs to the impactful Army Credentialing Assistance Program. Enhance your career with expert guidance and explore manufacturing opportunities through our comprehensive video profiles. Learn how these tools can pave your way to success and provide essential support for your journey. SCHOLARSHIPS FOR VETERANS ORGANIZATIONS ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Project Good to Go Student Resources Veteran and Military Transition Center Army Credentialing Assistance Program VETERANS IN MFG VIDEOS From Military to Manufacturing Video Profiles Veteran Resources and Army Credentialing Assistance

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 College of Technology Seamless Pathways You can design your education to match your interests, abilities, and ambitions. COT faculty and staff are available to help you find the right road to your future success. Many options are offered through the COT. These programs also provide a seamless pathway for community college students to continue their studies as juniors in engineering, engineering technology, or industrial technology programs at partnership universities/colleges. How to start your path? Enroll in a COT Program The COT offers a specialized curriculum allowing students to complete an A.S. degree in Technology Studies or Engineering Science at Connecticut State Community College. Connecticut's community colleges are affordable, flexible, and geographically convenient for students statewide. They offer programs to prepare students for careers in high-growth fields, such as precision machining, welding, and mechatronics. Students enroll in these programs through the Connecticut State Community College application process . The Engineering Science A.S. degree will provide students with the first two years of a typical engineering degree focusing on engineering theory and calculus. Students who complete the A.S. degree can transfer to a COT partner university to complete designated Engineering B.S. degrees. The Technology Studies pathway has certificates and A.S. degree options that allow students to learn the knowledge and skills within a specific high-demand technology field. The Technology Studies curriculum is very hands-on and includes opportunities for internships and apprenticeships. Upon completing a Technology Studies A.S. degree, students can transfer to Central, Eastern, and Southern Connecticut State Universities or the University of Hartford to complete designated B.S. degrees. Technology Studies A.S. degree options and credit certifications include: Work with Your Advisor and COT Site Coordinator Faculty Member As you work through your degree, stay in contact with your advisor to ensure you are following the COT program. Deviation from the required curriculum may result in loss of credits upon transfer or added to time complete your A.S. degree. Each community college has a designated College of Technology Site Coordinator knowledgeable about COT requirements and transfer options. Site Coordinators will also guide you as to which electives will satisfy transfer requirements for a specific university. Complete your A.S. degree and apply for transfer In order to be eligible for seamless transfer to a partner university, you must complete the A.S. degree and graduate from CT State Community College. Transferring before completing the A.S. degree may result in a loss of credits or added time to complete the degree. Complete your B.S. degree at a COT partner university Once enrolled in your transfer university, an advisor there will help you map out the rest of your degree.

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