FRANKFORT – Adair County residents can now take part in an apprentice-style training program that will team them up with area manufacturers.
Kentucky’s nationally recognized workforce training program known as FAME is creating a new chapter in the Cumberland region, which includes Adair County.
The Kentucky Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education is a partnership of manufacturers that have teamed up to address the shortage of technically skilled workers needed in advanced manufacturing.
“Since we launched the first chapter of KY FAME, it has been clear that developing a highly skilled and in-demand workforce is the foremost concern for companies,” said Gov. Steve Beshear.
High school graduates will enroll in the Advanced Manufacturing Technician program. Through AMT, students attend classes two days per week at Somerset Community College and work an additional 24 hours per week for a sponsoring employer. Upon completion of the program, students receive an associate degree in applied sciences and, with the practical skills gained during their paid work experience, most begin full-time employment with the sponsor. Others may decide to further their technical education to obtain bachelor’s degrees in engineering or business.
Six local companies from the region are leading the launch for the Cumberlands chapter. They are Toyotetsu America Inc. in Somerset, Superior Battery Manufacturing Company Inc. in Russell Springs, Aisin Automotive Casting LLC in London, UGN Inc. in Somerset, Highlands Diversified Services Inc. in London, and Belden Inc. in Monticello.
Robin Loy, college and career readiness counselor with the Adair County school district, said the program is an innovative career and educational opportunity for anyone interested in entering the workforce while earning a degree at the same time.
“I am happy to help anyone interested in learning ore or assist in signing up for the program,” she said. She can be reached through email at [email protected]
