As U.S. manufacturing continues to rebound and grow, employers turn to workforce development organizations for help with recruiting new employees. The new Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) provides statutory authority (section 128) to fund incumbent worker training, including apprenticeship programs. By supporting the implementation of the IMT apprenticeship with funds and technical assistance, workforce development boards can meet their mission to support a high-growth industry in their region. Workforce development agencies can work with intermediaries, employers and unions to place workers in apprenticeship positions that provide on-the-job-learning and formal education in basic and specialized manufacturing skills.

• Accelerated: Because the IMT is hybrid competency-based, skilled workers do not waste productive work time participating in training for things that they already know and can demonstrate mastery. This ensures that training is both efficient and effective and it helps many apprentices move to higher level of competency more quickly.

• Validated Credentials: All apprentices are prepared for the industry-recognized MSSC Certified Production Technician credential, which qualifies them for jobs in many advanced manufacturing firms, and in some regions schools may use these credentials to grant credits toward an associate’s degree. Those who complete the program also receive a nationally recognized journeyworker credential from the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship or the relevant state apprenticeship agency.