New INFAME chapter launches in northwest Indiana
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The Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education on Friday announced the approval of a new chapter in northwest Indiana. The South Shore INFAME Chapter provides a work-and-learn model for students to earn an associate’s degree in advanced manufacturing while getting paid, on-the-job experience.
INFAME is an initiative of the Indiana Manufacturers Association that seeks to create apprenticeship-style educational programs to fuel the talent pipeline for manufacturers.
The Valparaiso-based Center for Workforce Innovations said in a news release it is supporting area companies and educational institutions in their efforts provide students with technical training and hands-on experience.
The inaugural members of South Shore INFAME include Konrady Plastics in Portage, KTR Corp. in Michigan City, Triplex Painting in Michigan City, American Renolit in La Porte, Tri-State Industries in Hammond, Michigan City Paperbox, and Windeavor.
The CWI said the charter has formed an executive board and is recruiting additional manufacturing companies. The goal is to begin recruiting graduating high school students this fall, with the students beginning the program in the summer of 2024.
Leah Konrady, chapter chairperson and CEO of Konrady Plastics, said with many baby boomers retiring, now is the time to bridge the age and talent gap and attract and retain the next generation of talent.
“This is a win-win-win for students looking for a career path in manufacturing, companies seeking to recruit strong talent, and higher education looking to work alongside students and employers,.” said Leah Konrady, chapter chairperson and CEO of Konrady Plastics. “Manufacturing is the backbone of northwest Indiana and our country, and this program provides a pathway to sustain manufacturing in the region.”
The CWI said postsecondary education institutions interested in being the education provider for the chapter are being encouraged to submit a response to a Request for Proposals by April 30.