Cross-sector, public-private partnerships will prepare more students and workers for success in high-demand manufacturing careers
The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) applauds efforts by the Administration to expand apprenticeships through a $100 million competitive grant program to launch apprenticeship models in high-growth fields; align apprenticeships to career pathways; and scale effective apprenticeship models.
NIMS has developed over a dozen competency-based apprenticeship models in the machining and metalworking industry. These models monitor progress based on performance, in lieu of rigid hours, allowing individuals and companies to customize the apprenticeship model based on respective needs.
"There are an estimated 99,500 projected job openings for machinists and 117,100 projected job openings for industrial maintenance technicians nationally through 2020," said Jim Wall, Executive Director, NIMS. "We stand ready to partner with applicants across the country to help prepare more people for these growing careers by ensuring the highest quality training that is directly aligned to the core skills and competencies needed by employers."
According to a spokesperson, the NIMS team is equipped with the subject matter expertise to launch a successful competency-based apprenticeship training program with industry leaders through:
- Customizing competency-based apprenticeship models; supporting the implementation and sustainability of competency-based apprenticeships through various avenues, including project management, technical assistance and more
- Providing workshops and training support with employers and training partners.
NIMS' Competency-Based Apprenticeship System, developed in partnership with the United States Department of Labor and over 300 companies, integrates NIMS national standards and skill credentials into measuring required competencies for multiple occupations.
NIMS has developed the skills standards in 24 operational areas, ranging from entry-level to master-level, that cover the breadth of metalworking operations, including metalforming and machining. NIMS certifies individuals' skills against these national standards via 52 distinct credentials that companies can use to recruit, hire, place and promote individual workers.
For more information contact:
NIMS
10565 Fairfax Blvd. Suite 203
Fairfax, VA 22030
703-352-4971
www.nims-skills.org