Greater St. Cloud Receives Grant to Launch Manufacturing Apprenticeship Program

(KNSI) – The National Association of Manufacturers’ Manufacturing Institute has awarded Greater St. Cloud a $50,000 Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) Catalyst Grant. The grant recognizes the organization as one of only six regions nationwide selected to launch a new FAME chapter for manufacturers.

FAME is a global workforce development program that offers earn-and-learn apprenticeship programs to train aspiring manufacturers through classroom education and paid work experience. The new FAME chapter is intended to create a regional industry hub to build more manufacturing talent in the area.

The grant will allow Greater St. Cloud and its partners to launch a variety of initiatives, including conducting targeted research to assess employer needs and developing foundational processes to strengthen the chapter. The organization will also work to ensure alignment between employers and education partners.

Once the chapter is established, local manufacturers will work with community colleges and technical schools to offer hands-on training and education. The first cohorts of students are expected to be selected for employment in spring 2027, with training and classes beginning in fall 2027.

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