TMA training program graduates 43 students
The Technology & Manufacturing Association of Illinois (TMA) this week presented diplomas to the 43 graduates of its 2015 Related Theory Training Program.
The graduates represented three distinct manufacturing disciplines - Mold Making, Tool & Die Making and CNC Programming.
"I am very pleased to present these fine individuals to you," stated Patrick Osborne, TMA vice president of Training & Education. "They have successfully completed what we consider to be the 'Gold Standard' in manufacturing education."
TMA hosted the graduation ceremony at its new headquarters in Schaumburg, which will soon be home to a new hands-on training facility. Family, friends and employers, along with dozens of TMA members, TMA board members and staff, joined the graduates.
"I am an American manufacturing success story as you, too, are today," said TMA board chairman Fernando Ortiz, Jr. "My journey in manufacturing has led me from the shop floor to the executive office and now to chairman of TMA. You, today's graduates, have started your own journey and I wish you well," he added.
Former TMA chairman and Manufacturing Education and Careers Committee member Mike Chester gave the keynote address.
"Life is all about choices, and so far you have made a good choice, " Chester stated. "You have two sets of tools at your disposal. The hard tools you use with your hands and the soft tools you use with your heart and mind. If you embrace technology and become a lifelong learner, you will be successful."
The TMA Related Theory Apprentice Training Program has been assisting member companies in training their apprentices for 75 years. It has been one of the largest, most recognized precision metalworking apprenticeship programs in the United States.
Eight small manufacturing companies who thought they could better themselves by associating with one another founded TMA in 1925. Through the years, members established programs and services that would help their businesses grow and prosper, train their employees, and provide medical and retirement benefits.
As a result of these efforts, TMA has grown into an almost 1,000 member, not-for-profit organization representing more than 30,000 employees of precision manufacturing and supplier companies throughout Illinois.
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