Registration open for STCC class offering overview of advanced manufacturing

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College is offering a new course called Introduction to Advanced Manufacturing, a self-paced, online class that gives students insights into the machines, tools, concepts and other key elements of a growing industry with high employment demand.

As an online workforce development program, Introduction to Advanced Manufacturing allows students to study anytime and in any location (asynchronous training). They will have access to STCC Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) instructors and professors for assistance. Upon request, faculty will take students on a tour of the state-of-the art CNC (computer numerical control) lab on campus. Credits will be awarded to students who enroll in the STCC MET degree program.

“This program is a great opportunity for anyone in the community and beyond who is interested in working in precision manufacturing and wants to have the opportunity to find out more about the industry first hand,” said Gladys Franco, Interim Assistant Vice President of Workforce Development at STCC. “The introduction course is ideal for high school graduates, dislocated workers, veterans and individuals coming from other non-manufacturing sectors.”

Elliot Levy, Senior Director for the Workforce Development Center at STCC, said employers are seeking more training programs like the new one offered by STCC.

“We often hear from Springfield-area employers who need to fill positions but say many candidates don’t have the training. This class is the first step toward getting that necessary training,” Levy said.

Mechanical Engineering Technology Professor John LaFrancis said the workforce development program will give students valuable exposure to the world of advanced manufacturing.

“We’re excited to give students this introduction to advanced manufacturing,” LaFrancis said. “This is a perfect way to learn about careers in the field and get exposed to our degree and certificate programs. If you enjoy the class, you can convert your training into three credits after enrolling in the STCC Mechanical Engineering Technology Program’s CNC Operations Certificate or the Mechanical Engineering Technology associate degree.”

We often hear from Springfield-area employers who need to fill positions but say many candidates don’t have the training. This class is the first step toward getting that necessary training. Elliot Levy, Senior Director, Workforce Development Center

Employers say the training is a smart move for anyone seeking positions in precision manufacturing.

"We're excited that STCC is offering Introduction to Advanced Manufacturing. This type of training will help make you stand out as a candidate for entry-level manufacturing positions at companies like Universal Plastics in Holyoke," said Pia Kumar, co-owner of Universal Plastics in Holyoke.

The class teaches students the fundamental concepts of advanced manufacturing from home. Each of the 25 asynchronous trainings is 60-90 minutes and all are relevant for entry-level manufacturing positions. Students have 120 days to complete the 25 trainings.

Students earn a certificate of completion after finishing the course. This training can be converted into three college credits after enrolling in the STCC Mechanical Engineering Technology Program’s  CNC Operations Certificate (CNCO.COC) or Mechanical Engineering Technology associate degree (MECH.AS). 

For students interested in furthering their studies at STCC, a faculty member can assist in scheduling a tour of the STCC Mechanical Engineering Technology Department’s state-of-the-art lab and review the many options available in Advanced Manufacturing at STCC.

The course is part of STCC's Workforce Development Center, which offers non-credit programs and classes to meet the ever-changing technology and workforce demands of individuals, businesses, and industries in the region.

For more information, contact the STCC Workforce Development Center or visit stcc.edu/wdc. Call (413) 755-4225 or email workforcetraining@stcc.edu.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequalled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 766-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu

• See All News