Workforce News

Across the country, manufacturers are facing an urgent and growing challenge: finding the highly skilled, multi-talented technicians needed to power today’s advanced production environments. As automation, robotics and data-driven systems become standard on the factory floor, the demand for professional maintenance technicians continues to outpace supply. 

To help close that gap—and equip more communities with a proven solution—the Manufacturing Institute (MI) is launching a new grant opportunity designed to accelerate the expansion of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) to key regions. 

Accelerating the Growth of FAME 

The MI invites regional, employer-facing, organizations to apply for the new FAME Catalyst Grant, which is designed to support the early stages of launching a FAME chapter. Following the grant period, organizations will enter the FAME Academy for ongoing technical assistance to build all aspects of a chapter, setting the stage to welcome the first class of students in fall 2027. 

The Catalyst Grant will provide 6–8 selected regional “hub” organizations with early-stage funding to build the foundational partnerships required to establish an employer-led FAME consortium. 

This funding specifically targets the critical “trust-building” phase—empowering local leaders to convene manufacturers and community colleges, align around shared workforce needs and formally commit to this collaborative training model. 

Solving the Industry’s Greatest Challenge 

FAME—originally created by Toyota and now led nationally by the Manufacturing Institute—is widely recognized as a premier American model for developing advanced manufacturing talent. 

At the center of the model is the Advanced Manufacturing Technician (AMT) program, which blends: 

• Rigorous, industry-aligned college coursework 
• Paid, structured on-the-job training 
• Professional behaviors and leadership development 

The results are industry-leading: 

• 85% of FAME students graduate on time 
• 95% secure full-time employment with their sponsoring employers 
• 87% remain with those employers three years after graduation 

FAME produces highly skilled, adaptable technicians who are immediately productive, strengthening both individual career pathways and regional manufacturing competitiveness. 

Apply and Learn More 

Organizations can begin the application process by downloading the full Request for Proposals at fame-usa.com/RFP. 

• Application Deadline: April 10, 2026. 
• Selection Notification: April 30, 2026. 

The MI will host several FAME 101 Information Sessions throughout March to introduce the model, and outline expectations to interested organizations. Register here. 

Additionally, RFP office hours will be provided to answer your specific questions regarding the RFP and application process. Register here. 

As manufacturers continue to face persistent talent challenges, FAME—the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education—offers a proven, employer-led approach to developing the skilled technicians that modern operations require.  

In this Q&A, FAME USA National Director Tony Davis addresses key questions about how FAME operates, who it serves and the role it plays in strengthening the manufacturing workforce nationwide. 

What makes FAME different from—and better than—other apprenticeship models? 

“FAME is different because it is truly employer-led and built around shared accountability—with employers, community partners, and a college partner working closely together to execute. Employers don’t just host apprentices—they have input on the curriculum, set expectations, and hold one another to a common standard. That structure creates consistency, rigor, and relevance that many one-off or compliance-driven apprenticeship models struggle to achieve.  

FAME students become high quality manufacturing professionals throughout the two-year program, and the program has an 85% on-time graduation rate. Additionally, 95% of FAME graduates continue working with their sponsoring company after graduating. 87% still work with their sponsoring employer three years later.” 

What do employers get out of participating in FAME? 

“Employers gain access to a reliable pipeline of highly skilled, work-ready technicians who understand their culture, expectations and operations. Just as importantly, employers benefit from peer learning, shared problem-solving and a long-term workforce strategy that reduces risk and acknowledges that talent development is a shared responsibility.” 

What specific roles does FAME train for? 

“FAME’s flagship program trains Advanced Manufacturing Technicians (AMTs)—highly skilled, multiskilled maintenance technicians. These roles support advanced manufacturing operations by maintaining equipment, improving reliability, solving problems and contributing to continuous improvement. As the model evolves, FAME is also expanding into additional technical pathways aligned with employer demand.” 

How are FAME students identified and recruited? 

“Students are most often traditional graduates, meaning they are recruited during their senior year of high school to begin the program immediately following graduation. While about 75% of students are traditional graduates, the other 25% are usually incumbents—individuals already employed by the FAME employer.” 

How do FAME chapters operate?  

“Each FAME chapter is comprised of a local collaborative of employers, local partners, and their respective college partner, who meet regularly to inform decisions that move the program forward. Employers share responsibility for student selection, curriculum alignment and continuous improvement. This collaborative structure is one of FAME’s greatest strengths—it creates peer accountability and long-term commitment.” 

Which employers can participate in FAME? 

“All manufacturing employers can participate in FAME. The FAME model is designed to accommodate manufacturers of any size; in fact, the ability to take on more, or fewer students each year, as needs dictate, is a key benefit of the model.” 

How can employers join a FAME chapter? 

“Manufacturers can first check if they have a local chapter by seeing the list of program locations on the FAME website. Reaching out to FAME USA is a great way to get introduced to local chapter leadership. Chapter leadership typically sets up a time to meet to further align on FAME being the right solution for your needs.” 

What investments are required to join a FAME chapter? 

“Employers invest time and funds. The leaders that will be engaged with chapter activities the most—usually HR and maintenance leaders at the site—will need to be identified and trained. The training is free, online, asynchronous and takes about 90 minutes. It ensures they understand the model, expectations, and their role in supporting the chapter and their respective students.  

Once engaged with the chapter, employer representatives will support chapter activities and support financially. While the cost varies by local chapter budget, employers can expect between $500 and $2,500 in annual dues.” 

How can employers start a FAME chapter? 

“Starting a chapter begins with a group of committed employers who recognize a shared talent need and are willing to work together to address it. Sustainable chapters are our goal at FAME USA, so we consider the ability of a group of employers and a community college partner to recruit, sponsor and train approximately 20 students each year. FAME USA supports this process through structured guidance, training and the FAME Academy, which prepares employer collaboratives to launch and operate high-quality chapters. Our first step is convening stakeholders to discuss the model in depth and decide whether to move forward with adoption. 

We are currently accepting proposals for the new FAME Catalyst Grant, which provides funding and support for regional organizations to establish local FAME chapters. Employers are encouraged share this opportunity with their local and regional economic development organizations, chambers of commerce and manufacturing associations. Learn more on FAME’s website.” 

What investments are required to start a FAME chapter? 

“Employers, in collaboration with community college partners and local partner organizations, invest time, with a designated ‘champion’ (usually an HR or maintenance lead) providing peer communications and working with FAME USA to build local awareness in support of chapter start-up.  

Once the chapter has been established, all stakeholders participate in structured training through the FAME Academy, an online training course run by the MI. It requires about three hours a month over a six-month period to complete and covers governance, student selection, work-based learning and continuous improvement. This ensures stakeholders are prepared to operate the program consistently and effectively. 

Employers also contribute to the shared costs of operating the program. Importantly, these investments are collective—no single employer carries the burden alone.” 

How long does it take to start a FAME chapter? 

“From initial interest to enrolling the first cohort, it typically takes 12 to 18 months. That time is intentional—it allows employers to align, build trust, establish strong partnerships with a community college and partner organizations and ensure the chapter launches with a solid foundation.” 

What role does the Manufacturing Institute (MI) play in overseeing FAME? 

“The MI serves as the national home for FAME, providing structure, support and stewardship for the FAME USA network and training used by FAME chapters. We help ensure consistency across chapters while preserving the flexibility employers need to meet local and regional workforce needs.” 

How does MI ensure that FAME is performing at its best across the nation? 

“MI does this through training, technical assistance, data collection, and a growing Quality Assurance framework. By setting clear expectations, sharing best practices and continuously learning from the network, we help chapters maintain high standards and improve over time—while staying grounded in employer leadership.” 

How can employers learn more about FAME? 

“Employers are encouraged to join my monthly FAME 101 virtual session. This 90-minute presentation offers a deep dive into the model and explains the first steps to chapter creation. Registration is required.” 

Ready to bring FAME to your community? The MI is seeking proposals from organizations interested in establishing a FAME chapter in their region. The selected organizations will receive funding and support to build a coalition of local manufacturers and community college partners committed to launching the chapter, and to identify a community college willing to be the education partner. Proposals must be submitted to the application portal by April 10, 2026. Learn more and apply here. 

Washington, D.C. (March 9, 2026) – The Manufacturing Institute, the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, announced the 145 recipients of the 2026 STEP Ahead Awards. The Awards recognize manufacturing leaders at every stage of their careers—from the shop floor to the C-suite—who are strengthening the industry’s workforce and serving as role models for the next generation. 

For decades, manufacturers have faced a structural skilled workforce shortage. Today, there are over 400,000 open jobs in the sector. By 2033, manufacturers will need to fill 3.8 million positions, but half could go unfilled due to a lack of talent. While manufacturers have made significant investment in developing talent pipelines and recruiting new entrants into the manufacturing workforce, building strong workplace cultures that attract and retain employees has become a critical competitive advantage. 

The STEP Ahead Awards highlight leaders who are meeting this moment—championing mentorship and fostering supportive workplace environments. By elevating these leaders, the program helps more people see a clear and compelling future in modern manufacturing.  

Biogen Executive Vice President and Head of Pharmaceutical Operations and Technology Nicole Murphy said, “As chair of the STEP Ahead Awards, I’m honored to recognize distinguished leaders who are strengthening manufacturing excellence by investing in the future talent pipeline. With our industry facing a critical workforce challenge, real innovation will only come from empowering our workforces and nurturing the next generation of leaders through mentorship, sponsorship and serving as strong role models. These recipients are helping ensure manufacturing remains a place where talent can grow, thrive and build meaningful and impactful careers.” 

AstraZeneca Senior Vice President and Global Head of Pharmaceutical Technology and Development Dafni Bika said, “It’s a privilege to serve as vice chair of the STEP Ahead Awards and to highlight those who are reimagining what’s possible in our industry. I’m proud to see the next generation of female and ally leaders shaping the future of manufacturing and technology and inspiring others to see STEM careers as both meaningful and attainable.” 

MI President Carolyn Lee added, “The STEP Ahead Awards are truly a celebration of the outstanding character and contributions of so many members of the manufacturing workforce. Our industry is so fortunate to have so many inspiring leaders and mentors who are cultivating fulfilling workplace cultures that encourage people to join, stay and grow our workforce.” 

The 2026 STEP Ahead Awards Gala will take place April 23, 2026, at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. View the full list of awardees or learn more about the awards gala here. 

-The MI- 

The Manufacturing Institute works to build and strengthen the manufacturing workforce for individual opportunity, community prosperity and a competitive manufacturing industry for the future. This is done through implementing groundbreaking initiatives, convening industry leaders, conducting innovative research and promoting public policy that supports the sector as it meets the opportunity of modern manufacturing. As the 501(c)3 nonprofit workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, the MI is a trusted adviser to manufacturers, equipping them with solutions to address the toughest workforce issues. For more information on the MI, please visit www.themanufacturinginstitute.org. 

733 10th St. NW, Suite 700 • Washington, DC 20001 • (202) 637-3000 

In the Manufacturing Institute’s State of the U.S. Manufacturing Workforce Address, MI President Carolyn Lee had a clear message for industry leaders: “Workforce is not a side issue. It is the strategy.”

An exciting moment: Speaking at NTT Data’s North American headquarters in Dallas, Lee observed that manufacturers have an exciting opportunity before them.

• “Across the country, people are rethinking the way they approach learning. They’re reimagining the way to build a career. More and more, they are turning to other pathways as launchpads to their future,” she said.
• “Young people today have started to see more value in a different kind of job. A recent Harris poll found that the share of Gen Z-ers interested in blue-collar careers stood at 50%—more than twice as high as Americans overall.”
• “So as more young people seek out skilled pathways, we must seize the opportunity to ensure they see manufacturing as a sector in which they apply those skills for a durable career,” she continued.

Cultivating the right skills: Lee pointed out that these young people interested in the manufacturing industry must be equipped with the skills to succeed in it. She urged manufacturing companies to design and sustain strategies that will build this new workforce.

• “When manufacturers open their doors to students, parents and educators—through plant tours, classroom visits or MFG Day events—they do more than promote their companies. …  For many young people, that first exposure is the moment they realize there is a home for them in this industry; that manufacturing is a place where they can build, solve and contribute,” she said.
• “But an employer’s role doesn’t stop here. It must continue through partnerships with high schools, community colleges and universities; through internships, mentorships and apprenticeship programs that blend classroom instruction with paid, hands-on learning.”
• If all these steps are taken, students will “see a pathway forward—not just a first job, but a future,” Lee added.

MI in action: Lee highlighted the MI’s groundbreaking work in expanding talent pipelines and increasing access to rewarding manufacturing careers.

• “For example, through Heroes MAKE America, we are turning military excellence into manufacturing careers. We’ve expanded from entry-level on-site training and networking to offering in-demand high-skilled training. We’ve built and launched the Manufacturing Readiness Badge program, which translates military experience into validated, industry-recognized skills that manufacturers understand.”
• She also spotlighted the “rapid growth of the MI’s FAME program—the nation’s premier ‘earn and learn’ apprenticeship model for manufacturing. Since the MI took over stewardship of FAME from Toyota six years ago, FAME has more than doubled in size. Today, it includes nearly 500 companies across 17 states, boasting an incredible 85% job placement rate with sponsoring employers.”

The promise of AI:  On the subject of AI, Lee observed that “people who can leverage new technologies into the way they operate—who can use it to help them solve problems, make better decisions and get more done—will succeed in the job market and power the future.”

• [A]s AI evolves the way work is done, it’s opening doors to roles and opportunities we’re only beginning to see,” she continued. “Just as past technological shifts have changed the workplace, they’ve also created new paths for people to grow and contribute.”
• “That reality makes workforce development and upskilling urgent—and essential. In order for America to dominate AI and leverage these technologies to their fullest potential, we need to ensure our manufacturing workforce is ready with the right skills.”

A call to action: Lee ended her speech by invoking the history of American manufacturing and its record of increasing our nation’s security and prosperity.

• “Manufacturing has never waited for permission to lead. We build opportunities. We solve challenges. And we know from our history—from the factories that powered the Industrial Revolution to the assembly lines that mobilized an arsenal of democracy, from the boom that built the middle class to the advanced production that created the modern economy—when manufacturing steps up, America moves forward.”
• “Today, we have an opportunity again to share what leadership looks like—by putting people at the center of progress and by building a workforce ready not just for today, but for what comes next.”
• “When manufacturing leads, America works.”

2026 NAM State of Manufacturing Tour Stops in Dallas, Texas, for Manufacturing Institute’s State of the Manufacturing Workforce Address

(February 25, 2026) DALLAS – The National Association of Manufacturers—the official partner of America250—continued its 2026 NAM State of Manufacturing Tour today in Dallas, Texas, under the theme “Building the Workforce of the Future.”

NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons, Manufacturing Institute President Carolyn Lee and Rockwell Automation Chairman and CEO and NAM Board Chair Blake Moret visited the Dallas College Garland Center and global leader in AI, digital business and technology services, NTT DATA, an official sponsor of the tour along with Schneider Electric. The stops today highlighted the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of manufacturing careers in America, while emphasizing the need for a highly skilled workforce to sustain innovation and economic growth.

In Texas, nearly 1 million manufacturing workers drive a sector that contributes hundreds of billions of dollars to the state’s economy, representing between 11% and 13% of economic output and making it one of the biggest manufacturing workforces in the nation.

Lee gave the MI’s annual State of the Manufacturing Workforce address at NTT DATA’s North American headquarters. “For years, manufacturers have said the same thing: if you want a strong economy, you need a strong manufacturing workforce,” she said. “If you want innovation that leads the world, you need people with the skills to put it to work. Workforce is not a side issue. It’s the strategy. We have the chance to harness creativity, unleash competitiveness and build a stronger future. But that future is not possible without our single greatest asset: the manufacturing workforce. We don’t just need people. We need talent. And that means our workforce needs the skills to succeed.”

Timmons convened a panel with Lee, NTT DATA Products Industries Global Leader and NAM board member Prasoon Saxena and Celanese Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer Sameer Purao, focused on AI and the workforce. The event concluded with a site tour of NTT DATA’s innovation center, showcasing how technology is advancing the manufacturing industry in the AI era.

“The strength of manufacturing and the 13 million Americans who make things in this country depends on how seriously we invest in those workers and the millions who follow,” said Timmons who also serves as chair of the MI’s Board. “At this moment of inflection, transformative technology demands a new generation of skills. A rapidly evolving industry requires us to train, upskill and retain our people with greater urgency. Leaders in Washington have a responsibility to advance policies that strengthen our workforce. The MI champions those policies every day.”

“We are proud to host the NAM and Manufacturing Institute today,” said Saxena. “We know that manufacturing’s future will be defined by how effectively we integrate advanced technologies like AI with a highly skilled workforce. Industry 5.0 is our north star where data and AI with human expertise converge to create resilient, sustainable operations.”

The group also toured one of the MI’s FAME chapters in Texas, whose mission is to drive workforce development initiatives across the state. “Texas has led the way with FAME expansion in recent years—which is something we had the opportunity to see firsthand this morning,” said Lee. “Dallas College has been an outstanding educational partner, serving two chapters in Texas, the FAME Dallas Chapter and Metro360 Chapter. It is a model for how durable solutions for manufacturers can thrive with community cooperation.”

“We were honored to welcome the NAM and MI to Dallas College and to showcase the strength of our Texas FAME program,” said Dr. Veronique Tran of Dallas College. “Through FAME, we are creating a direct, employer-led pathway into high-skill, high-wage manufacturing careers—combining classroom instruction with paid, hands-on experience that prepares students to contribute from day one. We are grateful for the collaboration with the MI and appreciate their leadership in scaling solutions that strengthen our workforce.”

From Dallas, the 2026 NAM State of Manufacturing Tour will go on to Houston, Texas, and conclude on Friday, Feb. 27, in Phoenix, Arizona. The tour made stops in New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Wisconsin prior to today’s events in Dallas. Throughout the tour, the NAM will continue meeting with policymakers, manufacturers of all sizes, students and business leaders, advocating for the people and policies that will ensure the United States is the best place in the world to do business. To learn more about the tour and the NAM’s mission, visit https://nam.org/stateofmfg/, and to learn more about the State of the Manufacturing Workforce address, visit https://themanufacturinginstitute.org/state-of-mfg-workforce.

-NAM-

The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.95 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

–The MI-

The Manufacturing Institute works to build and strengthen the manufacturing workforce for individual opportunity, community prosperity and a competitive manufacturing industry for the future. This is done through implementing groundbreaking initiatives, convening industry leaders, conducting innovative research and promoting public policy that supports the sector as it meets the opportunity of modern manufacturing. As the 501(c)3 nonprofit workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, the MI is a trusted adviser to manufacturers, equipping them with solutions to address the toughest workforce issues. For more information on the MI, please visit www.themanufacturinginstitute.org.

-NTT DATA-

NTT DATA is a $30+ billion business and technology services leader, serving 75% of the Fortune Global 100. We are committed to accelerating client success and positively impacting society through responsible innovation. We are one of the world’s leading AI and digital infrastructure providers, with unmatched capabilities in enterprise-scale AI, cloud, security, connectivity, data centers and application services. Our consulting and industry solutions help organizations and society move confidently and sustainably into the digital future. As a Global Top Employer, we have experts in more than 70 countries. We also offer clients access to a robust ecosystem of innovation centers as well as established and start-up partners. NTT DATA is part of NTT Group, which invests over $3 billion each year in R&D.

The Manufacturing Institute—the workforce development and education affiliate of the NAM—is launching a new chapter of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME USA) in partnership with Grow Quad Cities and Eastern Iowa Community Colleges.

• FAME USA, which was founded by Toyota and is now led by the MI, is an employer-led solution that provides global-best workforce development through strong technical training, integration of manufacturing core competencies, intensive professional practices and intentional hands-on experience.

How it works: The new two-year apprenticeship-style training program at EICC—the product of two years of research by the MI and partners into local workforce needs—will allow students to earn while they learn to become highly skilled advanced maintenance technicians.

• Students spend two days a week in the classroom and three days a week with a sponsoring employer to get hands-on experience on the shop floor. At the end of their two years, they will have accrued over 2,000 hours of hands-on training and earned an associate degree in industrial maintenance.
• The new IA FAME – Riverbend chapter will be housed at EICC’s Blong Technology Center in partnership with Grow Quad Cities and seven local manufacturing companies: Amcor Global Rigid Packaging Solutions, LMT Defense, Novelis, Oertel Metal Works, PCT Ebeam and Integration, Smith Filter and SSAB.
• “Riverbend FAME expands what’s possible for students,” said EICC Chancellor Bryan Renfro. “It gives them a direct pathway to industry experience, job-ready training and long-term career success in manufacturing.”

Why it matters: Grow Quad Cities’ annual  Top 100 High-Priority Jobs Report, released in August 2025, shows high local demand for industrial machinery mechanics, machinists and mobile heavy equipment mechanics—roles for which FAME graduates are perfectly suited.

• “We’ve been thoughtfully listening to what our local manufacturers need when it comes to future workforce,” said Grow Quad Cities Vice President, Business Retention & Expansion, Workforce Chris Caves. “And we know the need for maintenance talent in the region is growing due to an aging population of maintenance staff. FAME has been adopted positively by global manufacturing companies for the past 15 years, and we’re ready to demonstrate that the Quad Cities is serious about developing manufacturing professionals to satisfy this occupational need that will only grow in the years to come.”
• With support from the Arconic Foundation, the MI advanced its FAME efforts by partnering with Grow Quad Cities to convene local employers and launch the newest FAME chapter, strengthening workforce development for the Quad Cities’ robust manufacturing community.

Critical support: The new chapter was made possible thanks to grants from the Arconic Foundation.

• “The newly established FAME chapter serving the Quad Cities region will open new paths to great careers in manufacturing for local students,” said Arconic Foundation President and Treasurer Ryan Kish. “Arconic Foundation is proud to invest in this proven model to help prepare the next generation of manufacturing workers in the community.”

FAME spreads: IA FAME – Riverbend is the first FAME chapter in Iowa, expanding FAME USA’s footprint to 17 states, with 45 locations nationwide.

• As of 2025, six years after the MI took over responsibility for the initiative, FAME has brought together nearly 500 companies employing more than 1,200 students annually with 2,700 graduates and growing.
• FAME USA National Director Tony Davis said, “This chapter is really a great example of perseverance and engagement from local manufacturers, supported by great community groups and with a commitment to serve the needs of manufacturers by the college.”

What’s next: The first cohort of 10 students will start in fall 2026 and will graduate ready to join the manufacturing workforce full time in spring 2028.

Get involved: To learn more about FAME and starting a chapter, go here.

Photo of EICC Chancellor Bryan Renfro, credit EICC

DAVENPORT, IOWA (January 27) – The Manufacturing Institute—the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers—announced today the creation of a new chapter of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME USA) in partnership with Grow Quad Cities and Eastern Iowa Community Colleges.

FAME USA is an employer-led solution that 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.

The new two-year apprenticeship-style training program at EICC allows students to earn while they learn to become highly skilled advanced maintenance technicians, putting them on track to start careers in an in-demand field while also building a talent pipeline to support the local manufacturing workforce. Students spend two days a week in the classroom and three days a week with a sponsoring employer to get hands-on experience on the shop floor. At the end of their two years, they will have accrued over 2,000 hours of hands-on training and earned an associate degree in industrial maintenance.

The new IA FAME – Riverbend chapter will be housed at EICC’s Blong Technology Center in partnership with Grow Quad Cities and seven local manufacturing companies: Amcor Global Rigid Packaging Solutions, LMT Defense, Novelis, Oertel Metal Works, PCT Ebeam and Integration, Smith Filter and SSAB.

The MI convened the partners for IA FAME – Riverbend for two years to conduct research into local workforce needs and to build community support for FAME. Grow Quad Cities’ annual Top 100 High Priority Jobs Report, released in August 2025, shows high local demand for industrial machinery mechanics, machinists and mobile heavy equipment mechanics—roles ideally suited for FAME graduates.

“We’ve been thoughtfully listening to what our local manufacturers need when it comes to future workforce,” said Grow Quad Cities Vice President, Business Retention & Expansion, Workforce Chris Caves. “And we know the need for maintenance talent in the region is growing due to an aging population of maintenance staff. FAME has been adopted positively by global manufacturing companies for the past 15 years, and we’re ready to demonstrate that the Quad Cities is serious about developing manufacturing professionals to satisfy this occupational need that will only grow in the years to come.”

With support from the Arconic Foundation, the MI advanced its FAME efforts by partnering with Grow Quad Cities to convene local employers and launch the newest FAME chapter, strengthening workforce development for the Quad Cities’ robust manufacturing community.

“The newly established FAME chapter serving the Quad Cities region will open new paths to great careers in manufacturing for local students,” said Arconic Foundation President and Treasurer Ryan Kish. “Arconic Foundation is proud to invest in this proven model to help prepare the next generation of manufacturing workers in the community.”

The manufacturers creating the FAME chapter will partner with EICC to support the FAME model locally.

“Riverbend FAME expands what’s possible for students,” said EICC Chancellor Bryan Renfro. “It gives them a direct pathway to industry experience, job-ready training and long-term career success in manufacturing.”

IA FAME – Riverbend is the first FAME chapter in Iowa, expanding FAME USA’s footprint to 17 states, with 45 locations nationwide. Originally started in 2010 by Toyota Motor North America to train the automaker’s maintenance technicians, the MI took over FAME operations to scale the program in 2019. As of 2025, FAME brings together nearly 500 companies employing more than 1,200 students annually with 2,700 graduates and growing.

FAME USA National Director Tony Davis added, “This chapter is really a great example of perseverance and engagement from local manufacturers, supported by great community groups and with a commitment to serve the needs of manufacturers by the college.”

The first cohort of 10 students will start in fall 2026 and will graduate ready to join the manufacturing workforce full time in spring 2028.

-FAME USA-

 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 in 2010 and moved to the Manufacturing Institute for national scaling in 2019. Today, the MI continues to grow FAME USA across the country with the support of nearly 500 manufacturers.

-The MI-

The Manufacturing Institute works to build and strengthen the manufacturing workforce for individual opportunity, community prosperity and a competitive manufacturing industry for the future. This is done through implementing groundbreaking initiatives, convening industry leaders, conducting innovative research and promoting public policy that supports the sector as it meets the opportunity of modern manufacturing. As the 501(c)3 nonprofit workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, the MI is a trusted adviser to manufacturers, equipping them with solutions to address the toughest workforce issues. For more information on the MI, please visit www.themanufacturinginstitute.org.

733 10th St. NW, Suite 700 • Washington, DC 20001 • (202) 637-3000

At Oskaloosa Middle School in Iowa, the future of manufacturing is taking shape today. The Quest for the Crystal of Innovation (also known as the Innovators Quest)—a gamified experience that introduces students to modern manufacturing careers—is engaging students in hands-on challenges in robotics, circuitry and teamwork.

In an age where classrooms increasingly rely on digital learning, this active, physical experience helped some students uncover new strengths and interests—potentially leading to careers that will last a lifetime.

The quest: Developed by the Manufacturing Institute, the NAM’s workforce development and education affiliate, thanks to a grant from American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Innovators Quest is made up of four “realms” laid out in a board game format.

• These realms include hands-on building challenges that introduce students to core manufacturing skills, like problem-solving, teamwork and communication.
• As they seek to recover the “Crystal of Innovation,” students in grades 4 through 9 try their hands at 3D printing, robotics and other cutting-edge manufacturing concepts.

Manufacturers’ involvement: Manufacturers, associations, workforce partners and community engagement groups can sponsor Innovators Quest kits, which they can use at schools, summer camps, local community events, MFG Day events, company family days and more.

• By facilitating the experience, manufacturers serve as the connector between Innovators Quest and real-world manufacturing.

The reception: “It’s been fun to see the ones who really light up,” said Kristen McMains, talent outreach specialist at Musco Lighting, who brought the experience to Oskaloosa’s classroom. “Teachers have told us, ‘That student doesn’t usually engage like this,’ and suddenly, they’re the one leading their group.”

• “I learned that I’m pretty good with wires and building stuff,” said Kolter Ozinga, an 8th grader who participated in the experience. “I like electrical work and teamwork.”

The big picture: Innovators Quest comes at a critical time for the manufacturing workforce. A 2024 study by the MI and Deloitte projected that as many as 1.9 million manufacturing jobs could be left unfilled by 2033, when current 5th graders will be graduating high school. Today’s youth could be key to filling this talent gap—if they know the careers are out there.

• “Kids can’t be what they can’t see,” said MI President and Executive Director Carolyn Lee. “By sparking their interest in skills used in modern manufacturing, this student engagement activity illustrates the limitless possibilities of the many careers in our industry. The time to invest in our future workforce is now.”

Get involved: Interested in bringing Innovators Quest to your community? The MI is accepting orders for Innovators Quest kits through Jan. 31. Learn more about the kit and place your order today.

Companies come to the Manufacturing Institute when they need solutions to their workforce challenges, whether that be a single area or the full spectrum of workforce needs. Smurfit Westrock, a global leader in paper-based packaging manufacturing, shows what is possible when companies partner with the MI to take a holistic approach to workforce development. 

Heroes MAKE America: Smurfit Westrock’s partnership with the MI started with Heroes MAKE America (HMA), an initiative that builds connections between the military community and the manufacturing industry.  

This partnership facilitated the hiring of veterans such as James Goppert, a retired United States Army Master Sergeant and now HR Business Partner at Smurfit Westrock. After more than 25 years in the Army, holding a variety of human resources positions both in the U.S. and abroad, James transitioned to civilian life with the support of the HMA program. HMA equipped him with insights into manufacturing as well as industry recognized certifications and connected him with Smurfit Westrock, an employer ready to see his potential.  

With military training and experience, particularly with advanced technology, veterans are ideal candidates for manufacturing careers. Manufacturers that hire veterans gain dedicated, proven, dependable and skilled team members who bring a unique perspective and approach to problem-solving.  

STEP Ahead: Beginning in 2020, Smurfit Westrock actively supported STEP ahead, the MI’s initiative to strengthen the modern manufacturing workforce. Through leadership development, mentorship and community building, STEP Ahead supports and empowers the workers leading the industry at every level—from the shop floor to the C-suite—helping individuals build successful careers in manufacturing while strengthening the industry’s future.    

Smurfit Westrock’s own A’donna Garrett, Director of IT Digital and Portfolio Management, was recognized as a STEP Ahead awardee in 2025. As an awardee, she participated in a two-day leadership conference in Washington, D.C., ahead of the Awards Gala, focused on peer learning, leadership development and inspiration. During the Awards Gala, A’donna shared her success surrounded by cheering colleagues and her daughter, who saw firsthand what it looks like when hard work and leadership are recognized.  

FAME USA: Smurfit Westrock is also a strong supporter of FAME, the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education), the premier American model of manufacturing skills training. As an employer partner across FAME’s national network, Smurfit Westrock sponsors FAME students to become highly skilled, professional maintenance technicians. The FAME model centers on employer leadership, allowing employer partners to play a role in everything from curriculum design to student recruitment at each chapter, building talent pipelines uniquely suited for their local needs. 

Commitment to this investment is shared at the highest levels of the organization. On a visit to their facility in Athens, Alabama, Smurfit Westrock CEO Laurent Sellier met Steffen, a FAME graduate, and called him a great example of the talent driving Smurfit Westrock’s success.  

The power of holistic investment: Smurfit Westrock demonstrates the power of investing in people and meet them where they are—whether they are transitioning from the military, starting their careers through FAME, or pursuing leadership opportunities, the impact extends far beyond a single location. It ripples through communities, strengthens industries, and builds the workforce of tomorrow. 

This promise of workforce development done right is why the Manufacturing Institute exists; to help companies like Smurfit Westrock transform potential into opportunity and opportunity into lasting success. 

Artificial intelligence, the manufacturing labor shortage, training programs and more—all were covered in a recent episode of the “Workforce 4.0” podcast, featuring Manufacturing Institute President and Executive Director Carolyn Lee.

What’s going on: Among the first topics addressed by Lee last week when she chatted with podcast host Ann Wyatt for the episode “Manufacturing Hiring Trends: And What Employers Need To Know In 2026” was the still-persistent concern that AI will “take” jobs from human workers.

• “[W]hen you ask the average manufacturer, especially a large manufacturer, they would say they’ve been working with robotics and automation for many years now,” Lee told Wyatt. “This is not new. … Large language models and generative AI [are] new … but … manufacturers have [always] been at the forefront of technology evolution and innovation, and it has not eliminated all people. I see people wherever I go.”
• In fact, the more widespread automation and other AI applications have become, the more appealing some of the work has become. Lee told the story of a manufacturing worker nearing retirement age who told her, “I’ve been in this sector for 40 years. I’m 65. I want to stay longer because the job is safer. It’s interesting, I’m learning more in the last five years than I’ve learned my entire previous career, and I’m excited for what’s to come.”
• Manufacturers just need to train their workforces on the technology so their teams “are able to evolve” with it.

Humans in demand: Human workers are still very much in demand. In fact, the manufacturing industry still has a dearth of about 400,000 workers—a shortfall that, if current trends continue, will grow to 1.9 million by 2033, Lee said, citing data from a joint MI–Deloitte 2024  report.

• “When we do this updated paper, which will be in ’27, I think it will show a much bigger number because our retirements will have continued … [and] all this domestic investment is going to create new jobs,” she went on. That, coupled with the advancement of AI, will make workforce training—the kind the MI does—and worker upskilling even more important.

FAME-ously crucial: Lee and Wyatt discussed the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME), a national apprenticeship-style training program started in 2010 by Toyota and now run entirely by the MI.

• FAME now has “over 42 chapters in 17 states, training thousands of students in maintenance for an [Advanced Manufacturing Technician] degree,” according to Lee.
• “It is really an employer-led model where the employers are driving that commitment, driving the training, working in concert with community colleges and then local business entities to help support that network,” she said. “And then you’re growing the pool of talent and you’re building practices to solve this together so that we’re not fighting over a shrinking pool; we’re actually growing that pool.”