The Manufacturers’ Association recently partnered with Manpower, The York County Alliance for Learning (YCAL), The Hanover Chamber and SCPaWorks to provide graduating high school seniors a free introduction to manufacturing training.
“WorkPath”, as it’s known, is a 48 hour hands-on program of training for a career in manufacturing, for which the Association provides educational materials and training space and equipment. The York County Alliance for Learning (YCAL) coordinates career training for all schools in York County, while SCPa Works based in Harrisburg funds employment and training programs across the region which empower job seekers to obtain new skills and career opportunities, while allowing businesses to build talent pipelines to help meet workforce demands. The Hanover Chamber serves as convener of the program, while Manpower is a professional staffing resource which works with numerous manufacturing clients, and initially got the concept off the ground by gathering program partners for the effort.
Topics provided to high school seniors as part of the new WorkPath program cover Shop Math, Blue Print Reading and Basic Measurement, as well as several work-related “soft” skills which can develop these students into more attractive job candidates for regional employers.
Students that complete and pass the program receive a certificate from the Association, but more importantly, potential placement at one of Manpower’s or the Association’s employer partners. The Association’s Training Coordinator, Chris Zimmerman, recently dedicated many hours of time personally to update all of the printed and digital manufacturing content that will be provided to students.
“At the Association, we’re highly committed to promoting careers in manufacturing, especially as it’s such a huge economic driver in our area,” noted Zimmerman. “With this new WorkPath program, the Association and our partners will be able to bring hands-on education to a young audience, that in many cases has never had first-hand exposure to the personal satisfaction that many of these careers can provide,” he added.
In addition to this initial group of 16 students coming into the new program, the Association will be adding additional classes and students in the near future, and will also be starting identical classes for adults soon.
