The Manufacturing Institute and Savannah Technical College Announce New Workforce Development Programs for the Military Community
In collaboration with the Manufacturing Institute’s Heroes MAKE America initiative, a Department of Defense approved SkillBridge provider, Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech), the premier provider of career-ready technical education and workforce development in Coastal Georgia, proudly announces the launch of the Fast Track Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) and Fast Track Automation & Robotics training pathways.
These pathways will help address the critical skills gap in the manufacturing industry while empowering transitioning service members, veterans and military spouses with career-ready certifications. Nationwide, the manufacturing industry has seen growth driven by automation and in coastal Georgia this is coupled with rapid to advancements in aviation technology.
The newly launched Heroes MAKE America SkillBridge pathway includes the Fast Track Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) program, which offers a six-week intensive course designed to fast-track participants toward FAA Airframe & Powerplant certification. Operating at Savannah Technical College’s Aviation Training Center, this program equips individuals with the technical expertise required for lucrative careers in aviation maintenance. Aviation technicians are in constant demand, and this initiative delivers the highly qualified workforce the aviation sector needs.
The Fast Track Automation & Robotics Program, a cutting-edge 8-week course, is specifically designed to teach advanced skills for high-demand careers in manufacturing and automation. The program, hosted at Savannah Technical College Liberty Campus, culminates in participants earning several of the nationally recognized Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) certifications. This credential not only signifies readiness for advanced roles in automation and robotics but also provides a competitive edge in the modern job market. With a hands-on, immersive curriculum, participants receive highly specialized training that connects their military expertise to civilian workplace demands.
“At a time when industry demand for skilled workers is at an all-time high, these programs are a dynamic response to the evolving demands of American manufacturing,” said Ryan W. Foley, President for Savannah Technical College. “Our partnership with the Manufacturing Institute’s Heroes Make America initiative ensures service members and their families have access to cutting-edge training and opens opportunities for these folks right here at home.”
Currently, established community partnerships cover program costs for transitioning military participants, so there is no financial burden to participate in the courses. In addition, the SkillBridge designation allows active-duty personnel to participate in the course before they exit the military. Military spouses, who possess unique career challenges, can also participate in the training pathways and benefit from portable, industry-recognized certifications that support long-term employment stability, regardless of relocation.
“Military connected individuals bring unparalleled skills—adaptability, mission-driven leadership and a commitment to excellence,” said Carolyn Lee, President and Executive Director of the Manufacturing Institute. “By providing the specialized training they need, we’re creating a clear pathway into high-demand roles that strengthen our workforce, honors their service, and turns military experience into a powerful competitive advantage.”
Transitioning service members, veterans, military spouses, Guard members, and reservists are invited to join the upcoming Heroes MAKE America SkillBridge Information Session for a comprehensive overview of this life- program. Scheduled for Monday, September 15th, 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM Eastern, this virtual session will offer valuable insights into the range of career opportunities available in manufacturing, the in-person and remote training and certification pathways offered, and the unique chance to connect with industry leaders through Heroes Connect virtual events. Attendees will gain practical knowledge on how to participate in the program and secure their path toward a rewarding career.
For more information, contact heroes@nam.org or visit https://themanufacturinginstitute.org/heroes-make-america/training-program/. Additional information can also be obtained by contacting Toni Sumpter at tsumpter@nam.org or (202) 637-3039.
ABOUT THE MANUFACTURING INSTITUTE
The Manufacturing Institute builds a resilient manufacturing workforce prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future. As the 501(c)(3) nonprofit workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, the MI serves as a trusted adviser to manufacturers, equipping them with solutions to address the toughest workforce issues. Heroes MAKE America, an initiative of the Manufacturing Institute, is dedicated to preparing transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses for career success in manufacturing and logistics. The program bridges the gap between military service and civilian industries with high-impact training and certification opportunities.
For more information, visit https://themanufacturinginstitute.org/heroes-make-america/training-program/.
A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech) is the premier provider of career-ready technical education in Coastal Georgia, offering a comprehensive range of nearly 150 market-driven programs, preparing students for high-demand careers including Aviation Technology, Cybersecurity, Health Sciences, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Automation & Robotics, Information Technology, Culinary Arts, Public Services and more. With campuses in Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty Counties, Savannah Tech serves more than 13,000 credit and non-credit students with a variety of pathways to success, including dual enrollment programs for high school students and specialized support services for military veterans and their families. Beyond academics, Savannah Tech is an economic and community development partner, collaborating with industry leaders to provide customized training programs, assessment services, and continuing education opportunities. For more information, visit www.savannahtech.edu.
Savannah Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees, diplomas and technical certificates of credit. Questions about the accreditation of Savannah Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
Savannah Technical College complies with the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). The TCSG State Board prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual’s age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status (“protected status”). No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any TCSG program or activity because of the individual’s protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual’s protected status, except the preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.