Industry Representatives Provide Input Regarding Training Needs of Area Manufacturers 

East Central College is seeking input from plant managers and maintenance supervisors from industry as the college focuses on building training programs that will meet the needs of area manufacturers. 

 

A meeting was held Friday, April 19, to inform area manufacturers about the $1.1 million Missouri Manufacturing WINs grant awarded to ECC last fall.

 

“The grant is administered by the U.S. Department of Labor,” stated Gretchen Pettet, executive director of ECC’s Center for Workforce Development.  “One of the top priorities of the Labor Department is that our programs incorporate the critical technical skills that are most needed.  For our area that includes developing and tweaking our programs in industrial engineering technology, precision machining and welding that are located at Four Rivers Career Center in Washington.  Clearly, industry involvement is critical in this process.” 

 

The Quality Coach facilitated the session at the Washington School District’s Technology and Learning Center. 

 

Pettet said that ECC will be required to offer online learning, enhance career pathway options for learners and workers, and accelerate and improve certification and employment attainment.  Some people may be eligible for funds to cover the cost of their education.

 

“Through MoManufacturingWINs, students will earn skill certificates that are recognized and endorsed by the National Association of Manufacturers,” she said.  

ECC is one of nine colleges in Missouri to receive grant funding. In addition to occupational skill certifications, all students will earn a National Career Readiness Certification Plus credential. Critical project components include: maximizing assessment and award of credit for prior learning; collaborating to incorporate National Association of Manufacturers endorsed certification skill competencies into core curricula; accelerating learning to shorten classroom time through redesign of curricula and use of technology; developing opportunities for work-based learning and paid internships; integrating basic skills remediation in occupational skill training; providing professional development to faculty; and working with staff at Missouri career centers.

 

This workforce solution was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration. The solution was created by the grantee and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership.