Grow Quad Cities connects employers & educators for new workforce training program

A strong show of interest from local employers has jump-started efforts to launch a Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) Chapter in the Quad Cities. It will be the first chapter in Iowa.  

“We’ve been thoughtfully listening to what our local manufacturers need when it comes to future workforce,” said Chris Caves, Vice President, Business Retention & Expansion, Workforce for Grow Quad Cities. “By aligning employers with Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) as the training partner, we’re helping ensure the region builds a sustainable pipeline of skilled workers. We’re specifically targeting Maintenance Technicians, because that’s where the greatest need lies.”

Caves said the occupational training program for these positions incorporates classroom curriculum with on-the-job training. The goal is to enroll at least 15 students in the initial class—and with current commitments, interest is already exceeding that target.

“Eastern Iowa Community Colleges is proud to partner with Grow Quad Cities and our business and industry leaders to launch this innovative program,” said Bryan Renfro, PhD, Chancellor of EICC. “Our region depends on a highly skilled workforce, and the FAME model is a proven way to prepare students for high-demand, high-skill jobs with quality wages. Together, we are creating opportunities that will uplift students, strengthen families and support the long-term success of our communities and employers.”

Companies stepping forward include Amcor (formerly Berry Global), Arconic, Eaton, Fair Oaks Foods (pending facility completion), KENT Corporation, LMT Defense, Novelis, Oertel Metal Works, PB Leiner, PCT eBeam, Smith Filter and SSAB.

“Arconic Davenport Works is excited to be one of the many companies bringing FAME to the Quad Cities area,” said Keli Price, Human Resources Manager at Arconic. “This will help us connect with new candidates to bridge the skill gap with hands-on training and academic learning to help continue to build our workforce as a flagship facility.”

The Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) provides global-best workforce development through strong technical training, integration of manufacturing core competencies, intensive professional practices and intentional hands-on experience to build the future of modern manufacturing.

FAME was originally created by Toyota and moved to The Manufacturing Institute in 2019 for national scaling. Today, The Manufacturing Institute—workforce development and education partner of the National Association of Manufacturers—manages FAME USA, which continues to expand with the support of more than 450 manufacturers nationwide.

Grow Quad Cities is a full-service regional economic development organization (formerly a part of the Quad Cities Chamber).