The focus of training provided by the grant will also be centered around critical industries such as advanced manufacturing, according to a news release from the college.
“This grant builds upon that work through providing a new and futuristic pathway: laser manufacturing, as well as expanding access to individuals who wish to reskill by training for a good paying job,” said Jo Alice Blondin, the president of Clark State.
Training models related to programming that will utilize money from the grant will include a broad range of classroom, on-the-job training, customized training and incumbent training, according to representatives of the college.
“With this grant we will be focusing on micro credentials that can be completed in as little as 8 weeks,” said Nora Hatem, associate professor of engineering technologies at Clark State.
“Each of these credentials can be stacked with other micro credentials to complete a one-year certificate. Two one-year certificates can be stacked to complete our Manufacturing Engineering Technology Associates degree. Students can also continue their education in our BAS Manufacturing Technology Management degree,” Hatem added.
Representatives of the college said that they are embedding national certifications at all levels of the program.
Clark State will also be purchasing equipment to support a new photonics or laser material processing certificate. The college also plans to purchase a 3D metal printer for prototyping and product development and material testing, according to the release.
Clark State was one of 19 recipients of the grant from U.S. Department of Labor. Those that received grant funds included institutions of higher education, entities involved in administering the workforce investment system established under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, as well as non-profit and economic development organizations.
Aimee Belanger-Haas, dean of business and applied technologies for Clark State, said the grant will increase the college’s capability and capacity to address the needs of manufacturers in the area as well as introduce students to new and emerging technologies such as photonics or laser material processing.
“We are proud of our strong partnerships with our industry and their dedication to our students,” she said.
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