2.1 Million
Manufacturing jobs unfilled nationwide
Pre-Apprenticeship to Registered Apprenticeship Pathway
Building Tomorrow's Manufacturing Workforce Today
Connecting students, schools, employers, and communities through proven pathways to manufacturing careers
The Manufacturing Skills Revolution
As highlighted in the Wall Street Journal article "The Schools Reviving Shop Class Offer a Hedge Against the AI Future," there's a powerful shift back to skills-based learning and careers that can't be automated.
94%
Apprentice retention rate after completion
$51,209
Average starting salary for apprentices in our network
$0
Student debt with our pathway model
Our Proven Pathway Model
A seamless journey from classroom to career, designed for participant success and employer needs
1. Youth Pre-Apprenticeship Program
High School Integration: Participants gain foundational technical skills, workplace readiness, and manufacturing exposure while earning academic credit.
1-4/Years
- Hands-on training in real manufacturing environments
- Industry-recognized credentials before graduation
- Mentorship from experienced professionals
- Career exploration with clarity and confidence
2. Transition to Registered Apprenticeship
Direct Pipeline: Pre-apprentices seamlessly transition into paid Registered Apprenticeships with our manufacturing partners.
4years
- Career placement opportunities
- Structured, accredited training programs
- Earn while you learn with progressive wage increases
- Comprehensive support throughout the journey
- Mentorship from experienced professionals
3. Career Growth and Leadership Opportunties
Long-term Success: Apprentices graduate as journey workers - skilled professionals ready to drive company success and industry innovation.
Day 1-Lifetime
- Journey-level certification and credentials
- Leadership development opportunities
- Strong company loyalty and retention
- Pathway to supervisory and management roles
Learn more about the model
Apprenticeship Works
Check out this video that highlights our proven model at work in three high schools in our area. Thanks to the teams at Cuyahoga Valley Career Center, Max S. Hayes High School, and Lorain County Joint Vocational School for letting us visit and see what you do!
Tailored Benefits for Every Stakeholder
Why Manufacturing Works
National Recognition
Apprenticeship Ambassador status demonstrates our proven track record and commitment to excellence in workforce development.
Measurable Results
Decades of workforce development success with documented outcomes and continuous improvement based on data.
Strong Partnerships
Established relationships with schools, employers, training providers, and community organizations create a robust support ecosystem.
Full-Service Support
We handle administration, education alignment, and mentorship so partners can focus on what they do best.
Sustainable Growth
Every individual served strengthens the entire regional manufacturing ecosystem for long-term prosperity.
Innovation Focus
Continuously evolving programs that prepare participants for advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies.
Explore Our Programs
Youth Pre-Apprenticeship
Discover how to integrate pre-apprenticeship programs into your curriculum and provide individuals with direct pathways to manufacturing careers.
Registered Apprenticeship
Build your own talent pipeline with motivated, pre-trained candidates ready to grow with your company.
Our mission is to strengthen manufacturing through connection, education, and training. If you're interested in learning more about apprenticeship or would like to support our organization, please contact us.