TANNER — Students attending four North Alabama high schools and career tech centers have become the first to receive state-of-the-art manufacturing training, including virtual reality training.
In a formal launch ceremony today at Alabama Robotics Technology Park here, regional officials, school leaders, and industry executives gathered for the Modern Manufacturing Program. Representatives from the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association, Mazda Toyota Manufacturing, and Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama spoke about the program’s purposes and benefits for the region.
The coalition has a mission to build a vital pipeline of skilled workers and professionals for one of Alabama’s leading industry sectors – advanced manufacturing. The program is not just about preparing students to enter the field and build careers, it is essential to the state’s economy to have a skilled workforce.
Guntersville High School, Hartselle High School, Limestone County Career Technical Center, and Madison County Career Technical Center are taking part in the program, designed to open career pathways for young people.
Aligned with industry standards, the program immerses high school students in hands-on training that prepares them for direct entry into an industry or gives them access to further training.
Students can earn industry certifications in high school while learning teamwork skills and punctuality. Program students may opt to enroll in industry-led community college programs, and others can immediately enter the workforce upon graduation.
As the program develops, there are plans to expand into more North Alabama schools.
