Applications are currently open for a one-of-a-kind program at John Wood Community College for students wanting to immediately enter the workforce.
The FAME program is a national educational model that involves working with regional manufacturers three days a week and training at John Wood Community College’s Workforce Development Center two days a week as part of a two-year advanced manufacturing technician associate degree.
Applicants will work for one of five regional employers including DOT Foods, Gardner Denver, General Mills, The Knapheide Manufacturing Company and Titan Wheel for their work experience which starts in June prior to August coursework at John Wood. During training, students will earn at least $21 per hour and upon completion of a two-year degree, employers have agreed to pay students a starting salary of $63,000 annually.
JWCC, in collaboration with the Great River Economic Development Foundation and five founding company partners, launched Illinois’ first FAME chapter in February.
The application deadline for the program is May 15 and the Great River Fame chapter is seeking up to 18 individuals to fill the first cohort of students. Details and application materials can be found at this link or by contacting Kayla Wentz at kwentz@jwcc.edu or call 217-641-4957.