Dayton, Ohio, August 30, 2017 – With more than 2,500 companies making everything from aircraft components to medical equipment, the Dayton region is one of the largest manufacturing centers in the United States.
But at a time in which opportunities for careers in manufacturing are on the upswing, many jobs are going unfilled.
That’s why Graduation Alliance, which provides education and career training opportunities in communities across the United States, including Montgomery County, has partnered with the Dayton Region Manufacturers Association to give Dayton-area residents an opportunity to earn the qualifications they need to begin a new career in manufacturing.
The new program, which is administered online, starts with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration “OSHA 10” certificate – an essential first step toward getting hired. Successful participants are then guaranteed an interview with a participating employer and, once they receive a job offer, they’ll begin working toward the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council’s Certified Production Technician certificate, or MSSC CPT. Employers already participating in the program include FC Industries Inc., JBK Manufacturing and Development Co., Noble Tool Corp., Production Tube Cutting and Rack Processing.
“This is a great opportunity for people who want to stop bouncing from job to job and start working toward a career,” said Ron Klausner, Graduation Alliance’s chief executive officer. “The training that we’re offering puts people in a great position to be hirable and promotable in an industry that offers stable jobs, good benefits and a lot of upward mobility.”
The OSHA 10 training is required at most manufacturers, and certification demonstrates to employers that potential employees understand their rights and responsibilities related to workplace safety.
The MSSC CPT certificate is recognized by manufacturers throughout the country, and can be earned in about 120 hours. The program’s curriculum includes units on safety, quality, manufacturing, production and maintenance awareness.
“These certifications are the essential first steps in a journey toward career stability with good wages and benefits,” said Angelia Erbaugh, the Dayton Region Manufacturers Association president.
Rack Processing’s chief operating officer, Jim Bowman, said the need for a program like this is clear.
“For individuals who have the basic training and a willingness to work hard, the opportunities in manufacturing are endless,” Bowman said. “Alongside Graduation Alliance, we’re going to make sure that a lot of people get the first part of that equation – then the willingness to work hard will show through and the continued effort will propel them forward to their dream of a promising career.”
To apply for the program, applicants must be U.S. citizens or green card holders, 18 years of age or older, drug-free and willing to learn.
Since 2007, Graduation Alliance has given schools and communities across the nation the resources and support needed to help individuals reach their educational and career goals. In partnership with school districts, local governments, non-profits, workforce development boards and community colleges, Graduation Alliance develops highly effective alternative education and workforce training programs. As an organization, Graduation Alliance embraces principles of social entrepreneurship and is supported by backers, including New Markets Venture Partners, who believe in always putting students first. For more information about Graduation Alliance, visit www.graduationalliance.com.
About Dayton Region Manufacturers Association
The Dayton Region Manufacturers Association (DRMA) provides programming, education, and peer-to-peer connectivity opportunities for members serving the aerospace, agricultural, medical, construction, defense and other markets. It represents 220+ manufacturer member companies and almost 16,000 employees in the Dayton Region. For more information about DRMA, visit DaytonRMA.org.
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