Get Started in Manufacturing: Training Opportunities for Job Seekers

⚙ Entry-Level Training Programs

Launch Your Manufacturing Career

Hands-on training programs build clear career pathways. Prepare for high-demand positions in advanced manufacturing and shop floor automation.

13
Programs
1–3
Day Courses
100%
Hands-On
Offered By
Making Your Future

Available Training Programs

Offered through SkillMill19 @ Manufacturing Innovation Center in partnership with Making Your Future

Digital & AI

AI Essentials: From Beginner to Confident User

Learn AI concepts in simple terms. Practice using daily AI tools to boost productivity and clear communication.

  • AI Fundamentals & Plain-Language Concepts
  • Responsible and Ethical Use of AI
  • Prompting Skills for Everyday Work Tasks
  • Using AI for Documents, Meetings & Communication
  • AI-Driven Productivity and Workflow Optimization
  • Applying AI Tools for Better Decision-Making
Manufacturing Skills

Blueprint Reading

Master blueprint symbols, dimensions, and limits. Read design plans clearly to cut shop floor errors.

  • Blueprint Basics & Drawing Layouts
  • Symbols, Line Types & Views
  • Dimensions and Annotations
  • Material and Finish Specifications
  • Tolerances and GD&T
  • Reading Assembly Drawings
  • Practical Exercises and Case Studies
Manufacturing Skills

Composites Bootcamp

Join a 3-day hands-on bootcamp on modern composites. Practice the full build process from prep to part.

  • Composites Overview & Applications
  • Reinforcement Fibers and Resin Systems
  • Working with Fiberglass and Carbon Fiber
  • Plug Prep, Mold Creation & Layup Techniques
  • Vacuum Bagging with Professional Equipment
  • Part Curing, Demolding & Defect Identification
  • Career Pathways Through WCCC
Digital & AI

Digital Literacy

Gain core computer skills for factory work. Practice using plant software and basic digital tools.

  • Computer Basics & Hardware
  • File Management & Navigation
  • Using Word & Excel
  • Email & Communication Tools
  • Intro to Manufacturing Software
  • Technology Use in Daily Tasks
Manufacturing Skills

Electrical Assembly

Learn electrical wiring and circuit board assembly. Read schematics and apply safety rules.

  • Reading Electrical Schematics
  • Wiring and Component Installation
  • Circuit Board Assembly
  • Soldering and Crimping Techniques
  • Safety Protocols and Best Practices
  • Electrical Testing and Troubleshooting
  • Quality Assurance in Assembly
Manufacturing Skills

Electrical Technician Basics

Build core skills in electrical systems. Learn to use tools for measuring voltage and resistance safely.

  • Safety and PPE
  • Ohm’s Law & Core Electrical Principles
  • Multimeter Use
  • Wiring Best Practices
  • Electrical Hand Tools
  • Reading Simple Electrical Diagrams
Robotics & Automation

Fundamentals of Robotics

Program and operate industrial robots. Get real hands-on experience using actual robotic hardware.

  • Robot Design & Function: Components, Controllers & Safety
  • Programming: Teaching and On-Line Modes
  • Motion Control: PTP, XYZ, and Tool Coordinate Modes
  • Automation Logic: Conditional Programming & I/O
  • Sensors & Peripherals Integration
  • Workplace Safety Standards
Manufacturing Skills

Hand & Power Tools Basics

Learn proper tool selection for repair and assembly work. Practice safe tool techniques in hands-on tasks.

  • Safety and PPE
  • Power Drill & Impact Driver
  • Jigsaw and Hand Saws
  • Fasteners, Bits & Measurement Standards
  • Work Holding Methods
  • Wrenches and Various Hand Tools
Robotics & Automation

Introduction to Collaborative Robots

Learn collaborative robot basics for modern factories. Practice safe programming and task setup.

  • Cobot Safety and Compliance
  • Basic Robot Programming
  • Human-Robot Interaction
  • Task Automation Setup
  • Cobot Applications in Manufacturing
  • System Integration Fundamentals
  • Troubleshooting and Maintenance Basics
Manufacturing Skills

Laser Cutting & Engraving with CorelDRAW & Epilog

Prepare and run laser cutting jobs. Take your design from digital files to finished parts.

  • Configuring CorelDRAW for Epilog Laser Systems
  • Vector & Raster Image Preparation
  • Material Safety and Prohibited Materials
  • Nesting Techniques for Material Efficiency
  • Epilog Dashboard Operation
  • Basic Laser Maintenance
  • Troubleshooting Common Output Issues
Robotics & Automation

Introduction to Mechatronics

Build core skills in mechanical and control technology. Learn key automation basics for plant jobs.

  • Industrial Automation and Control Systems
  • Pneumatics, Electricity, Sensors & Actuators
  • Hands-On with Real-World Automation Devices
  • Intro to PLCs and Logic Circuits
  • Engineering Design Principles in Automation
Safety & Compliance

OSHA 10

Learn key safety rules for factory environments. Spot and prevent common plant floor hazards.

  • Identifying and Preventing Workplace Hazards
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Workplace Rights and OSHA Regulations
  • Emergency Procedures and Safety Best Practices
  • Max 20 Participants Per Session

About Making Your Future

Making Your Future (MYF) connects job seekers with resources to build manufacturing careers and secure good-paying jobs.

Visit makingyourfuture.org →

About SkillMill19

SkillMill19 is a state-of-the-art lab offering industry-aligned training in advanced manufacturing and automation.

Visit SkillMill19 →

Ready to Get Started?

Our training options welcome all entry-level job seekers. Many courses are fully funded by Making Your Future grants.

Enroll Today →

Workforce Research & Planning

Designing successful training paths requires research into local hiring needs. First, review localized entry-level demand in our 2023 swpa manufacturing workforce training demand study. Next, consult our complete workforce training demand study alongside the imt pre apprenticeship info sheet. As a result, hiring managers can establish clear skill benchmarks for incoming talent.

For Employers & Hiring Partners

Tap Into Our Pool of Talent to Find Your Future Workforce!

Our job seekers are trained, motivated, and ready to work. Connect with the next generation of manufacturing talent — before they even graduate.

  • Offer a Tour
  • Speak to a Class of Trainees
  • Interview Candidates
Reach Out to Nate Broadus, Workforce Specialist, to Learn More nbroadus@catalystconnection.org
Email Nate →

Additional Workforce & Recruitment Tools

We provide specialized data toolkits to help regional facilities attract and retain early-career talent: