Manufacturing is the backbone of our economy. Nearly 120,000 manufacturing people are employed within Central PA alone, and only 16,000 apprentices work in the entire state of PA. At The Manufacturers’ Association, we know that a strong workforce starts with strong training programs. That is why our State Registered Apprenticeship Program is designed to equip individuals with hands-on experience and technical skills in high-demand trades.
About The Manufacturers’ Association
The Manufacturers’ Association is a regional leader in workforce development and training. Our mission is to strengthen manufacturing in Central Pennsylvania by providing resources, advocacy, and education that empower both employers and employees. We partner with local technical schools and industry leaders to ensure our programs meet real-world needs. From customized training to networking opportunities, we are committed to helping manufacturers thrive and grow.
Why Apprenticeships Matter
Apprenticeships are more than training. They are a career launchpad. Graduates of our program earn an average of $87,000 per year, rivaling college graduates, and employers report a 93 percent retention rate among those who complete apprenticeships. These programs combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training, creating a reliable, skilled workforce for long-term success.
Program Highlights
- Trades Offered: Automation Robotics Technician, Machinist, Tool and Die Maker, Mechatronics Technician, Maintenance Mechanic, Quality Control Technician, Industrial Manufacturing Technician, Sheet Metal Fabrication, and Maintenance Electrician.
- Duration: 2 to 4 years, depending on the trade.
- College Credit: Courses may count toward an Associate’s Degree.
- Earn While You Learn: Apprentices are paid employees during training.
- Nationally Recognized Credentials: Graduates receive certifications that boost career mobility.
- Employer-Led Design: Courses tailored to industry needs, taught by experienced journeymen and professionals.
- Consortium Access: Employers can help shape future course offerings.
Our program is designed to benefit both apprentices and employers. Apprentices gain valuable skills and credentials while earning a paycheck. Employers build a loyal, highly skilled workforce that is prepared for the challenges of modern manufacturing.
Meet Chris Zimmerman – A Champion for Apprenticeships
We are proud to share that Chris Zimmerman, our Apprenticeship Coordinator, has been nominated as an Outstanding Advocate for Building a Thriving Registered Apprenticeship Ecosystem, and he is a finalist. Chris brings four decades of manufacturing experience to the table, starting as an apprentice himself and now helping over 170 apprentices build their careers through our program. When Chris joined The Manufacturers’ Association, there were about 40 apprentices. Today, thanks to his leadership and passion, we have grown to become the largest manufacturing apprenticeship provider in the region.
Chris’s dedication to strengthening manufacturing in South Central Pennsylvania and mentoring the next generation makes him an exemplary candidate for this honor.