In conjunction with Manufacturing Day at the Capitol, the collaborators announced a partnership with Nebraska State Chamber Foundation ( nechamber.com), the state’s six community colleges, and the Department of Labor, to deliver modular, employer-based training to students or workers to earn Level 1 Manufacturing Certifications.
The program establishes a statewide, stackable entry-level Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance Credential that verifies manufacturing skills and creates a consistent industry-recognized standard across Nebraska. It establishes the community colleges as registered apprenticeship hubs in addition to helping develop curriculum for the credential, hire instructional designers, instructors, and skills coaches; helps purchase equipment and support student success at the colleges.
In addition to taking the courses tuition-free, students receive stipends for participating in them. The credential can be completed in 6-8 weeks by attending one class per week. Additionally, students can go on to earn Level 2 or 3 manufacturing certificates.
Students participating can be youth or high-school-aged learners, adults studying for their GED, or high school graduates and industry professionals wanting to “upskill.” Upskilling can earn workers higher wages and promotion. Funding for the $7 million project is from the state’s Workforce Development Program Cash Fund.
Prospective students interested in enrolling should contact their community college. Manufacturers wanting to learn more can contact the nechamber.com.