New Manufacturing Leadership Program coming to Elgin

ELGIN - Judson University and the Technology and Manufacturing Association have begun an exclusive partnership to offer a new manufacturing training program at Judson's Elgin campus.

The objective of the Manufacturing Leadership Program is to sustain and grow the small and mid-size manufacturing business sector by equipping the next generation of industry leaders with the knowledge and skills required to meet the present and future needs of modern, high-tech manufacturing.

"Judson is excited about the new partnership with the Technology and Manufacturing Association to provide the kind of specialized leadership training that will support and grow the industry in our communities," said Dr. Gene Crume, president of Judson University.

Three-quarters of all manufacturing companies in the U.S. are small to mid-size firms, said Patrick Osborne, president of the Technology & Manufacturing Association.

"Employees and leaders within the field are entrepreneurial, innovative, responsive and forward-looking. However, there is an unprecedented need to engage and prepare the next generation of manufacturing professionals who will lead and sustain the industry, expand our economy and strengthen our society," Osborne said.

Participants in the program will have 10 monthly sessions that will result in 70 hours of study and lectures led by industry leaders. A dual-accredited certificate from both TMA and Judson will be awarded upon successful program completion.