FAME Earn-and-Learn Pipeline Lands in Iowa as 14 Students Sign On

In Davenport, Iowa, 14 students took an important step toward careers in advanced manufacturing signing letters of intent with manufacturing employers at the first Iowa FAME Riverbend Chapter signing ceremony.

This chapter—the first in Iowa—is among the latest regions to adopt an employer-led approach to technical workforce development, as the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education continues to expand.

The process: Starting in late August, the students will combine classroom instruction at Eastern Iowa Community Colleges with paid, hands-on experience at their sponsoring companies. They will attend classes two days a week while working three days a week, gaining the technical and professional skills needed to pursue careers as advanced manufacturing technicians.

FAME, explained: FAME is the premier American model of manufacturing skills training. Managed and supported by the Manufacturing Institute, the NAM’s 501(c)3 workforce development and education affiliate, FAME helps manufacturers develop a pipeline of highly skilled advanced manufacturing technicians.

• FAME students complete a rigorous full-time earn-and-learn program where they earn an associate degree. The program involves employers in the entire process, from curriculum design to student recruitment.

What they’re saying: “This partnership gives employers a practical way to build talent from within,” said Alene Bails, EICC dean of manufacturing and trades, in an interview with the Quad Cities Business Journal. “They are investing in students, helping shape their training, and developing employees who can support their operations for years to come.”

Why it matters: The manufacturing industry faces a skills gap that could leave up to 1.9 million jobs unfilled by 2033. FAME builds talent pipelines to help fill this gap, connecting manufacturers with the skilled talent they need to succeed.

• The MI continues to bring FAME to new communities, seeding six new chapters earlier this year. When these open, FAME’s total reach will comprise 52 chapters in 19 states.

The last word: “Iowa is a significant addition to the FAME network, and the enthusiasm from both the students and their sponsoring companies is exactly what we hope for when FAME takes root somewhere new,” said Tony Davis, national director of FAME USA. “We have been excited to help launch this chapter and look forward to supporting its growth.”

Get involved: Visit FAME USA’s website to learn more about how manufacturers and educators can get involved with FAME. Also explore this Q&A with Tony Davis to learn more about how the FAME model operates.