Next generation of manufacturers complete apprentice program

Thirty-nine students graduated from the Technology & Manufacturing Association's Related Theory Apprentice Program recently to become the next generation of Illinois manufacturers.

They were surrounded by their family, co-workers, and Technology & Manufacturing Association representatives at the Stonegate Conference & Banquet Centre in Hoffman Estates.

These apprentices successfully completed the three-year program while working full-time at their Technology & Manufacturing Association sponsor companies. Nine graduated in Mold Making, 10 in Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Programming, and 20 in Tool & Die Making.

"At a time when people thought manufacturing was on its decline in our country, these graduates were at the forefront of our industry's newfound revival," said Patrick Osborne, Technology & Manufacturing Association's vice president for Training & Education.

"What these students participated in over the last three years is the gold standard of manufacturing training programs. This nationally recognized certificate will allow them to enter into a lucrative and rewarding career in manufacturing."

The Technology & Manufacturing Association's Related Theory Graduation was for students who have completed the three-year Apprentice Training Program. Students attend class twice a week from 6-9 p.m. for 28 weeks each year, in addition to working full-time at their sponsored Technology & Manufacturing Association member company.

During their first year, they are taught basic skills such as shop math, blueprint reading, and the basics of machine tool technology.

In their second year, students begin their discipline in mold making, CNC programming, or tool & die. In their third year, students continue their education with more advanced training. Certificates were presented to students for their chosen track by their specialized instructors.

"Nearly 3.5 million new manufacturing jobs will be created over the next decade, and two million of them will go unfilled due to a lack of skilled training," Technology & Manufacturing Association Chairman Rich Hoster said.

"Manufacturing is an increasingly evolving industry that requires the next generation of workers to be prepared and equipped with the skills for the job. This program helps close that gap, giving these graduates a skilled trade and employment opportunities in manufacturing. These 39 apprentices will be a huge asset to the Illinois manufacturing community for decades to come."

The Technology & Manufacturing Association Related Theory Apprenticeship Training Program has been assisting member companies in training their apprentices for more than 70 years. It has been one of the largest, most recognized precision metalworking apprenticeship programs in the United States.

Founded in 1925, the Technology & Manufacturing Association represents and supports manufacturers in the Chicago metropolitan area and surrounding counties in Northern Illinois, Northern Indiana, and Southern Wisconsin.

The Technology & Manufacturing Association has almost 1,000 members and represents more than 32,000 employees and nearly 26M square feet of manufacturing in Illinois.

For information, visit www.tmaillinois.org.