This year Chesapeake launches the Advanced Manufacturing Program with the first course offerings beginning this winter. With more than 100 prospective employers in the area, job opportunities in the industry abound and are expected to grow.

Classes include “Introduction to Manufacturing”, students will learn the how to properly use the tools and systems utilized in manufacturing. “Soldidworks:3D Modeling I”, is also available, Solidworks is a common software for mechanical design in manufacturing. The Advanced Manufacturing labs include Haas Desktop CNC’s, 3D printers, Industrial robotics, laser markers, and many other tools that students would use in a manufacturing environment on the job.

Chesapeake’s eight-week program will prepare students as Certified Manufacturing Associates (CmfgA) from the Society of Manufacturing Engineers. Certification testing will be provided in the classes. Classes are currently offered in the evenings from 6 to 9 pm, and there are no prerequisites.

Chesapeake partners with local industry leaders to develop programs that prepare students for employment. The AMP was developed based on regional employer needs and requests for workforce preparation.

“Paul Reed Smith Guitars is always seeking local craftspeople with the skills that we can use to fill crucial manufacturing roles and grow with our business. AMP classes at Chesapeake College will prepare prospective employees for work at PRS and help in our recruitment of local talent,” said Christina Woodard, director Human Resources at Paul Reed Smith Guitars in Stevensville.

Leaders at other manufacturing companies agree.

“Since Dixon Valve and Coupling Company’s move to the Eastern Shore in the 70’s, the education, training and development of our employees has always been at the fore front.,” said Bob Grace, President of Dixon Valve and Coupling Company in Chestertown. “From Basic Machine Shop to competency-based apprenticeships offered across the country at other Dixon facilities, over the last 50 years Dixon has been and will continue to be a pioneer in employee training and development partnering with Chesapeake College at every opportunity.

He added, “Now with the creation of the Advanced Manufacturing Program (AMP) offered at Chesapeake, Dixon can be assured of a solid partnership with Chesapeake and that Chesapeake will continue to meet the education and training needs of the employers and employees of the Upper Eastern Shore.”

For more information about the Advanced Manufacturing Program and for information about possible tuition assistance, please contact Frank Williams at [email protected], 410-827-5842.