Advanced Manufacturing Program

Precision Skills for a High-Demand Industry

The Advanced Manufacturing program at BridgeWorks trains returning citizens for careers in CNC machining, quality control, production operations, and lean manufacturing. Developed in close partnership with regional manufacturers, this 14-week program aligns directly with the skills employers need most. Graduates earn industry-recognized certifications and benefit from strong employer demand that translates into fast placements and competitive starting wages.

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Program Overview

• Duration: 14 weeks (Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM)
• Cost: Free to all participants
• Class Size: 20 participants per cohort
• Placement Rate: 80% within 60 days of graduation
• Average Starting Wage: $16.75/hour
• New Cohorts: Launch every eight weeks

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Curriculum

Weeks 1-3: Manufacturing Foundations & Safety

Every participant begins with essential safety training and an introduction to manufacturing environments:

• OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Safety Certification -- hazard communication, lockout/tagout, machine guarding, personal protective equipment
• Introduction to manufacturing processes and terminology
• Precision measurement using calipers, micrometers, and gauges
• Workplace math for manufacturing (fractions, decimals, tolerances)
• Shop floor communication and teamwork

Weeks 4-7: CNC Machining & Operations

Participants gain hands-on experience operating computer-controlled manufacturing equipment:

• Introduction to CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining principles
• G-code programming fundamentals
• Setup, operation, and monitoring of CNC lathes and mills
• Tool selection, feeds, and speeds
• Reading and interpreting engineering drawings and blueprints
• Preventive machine maintenance procedures

Weeks 8-10: Quality Control & Lean Manufacturing

Quality and efficiency are central to modern manufacturing. This phase covers:

• Statistical process control (SPC) fundamentals
• Inspection techniques and quality assurance documentation
• Root cause analysis and corrective action procedures
• Introduction to lean manufacturing principles (5S, Kaizen, waste reduction)
• ISO 9001 quality management system awareness
• Continuous improvement mindset and problem-solving methods

Weeks 11-13: Partner Facility Rotations

Participants spend three weeks in supervised rotations at local manufacturing partner facilities. These rotations provide:

• Real-world production floor experience
• Exposure to different manufacturing environments and product types
• Opportunities to demonstrate skills to potential employers
• Practice working within established safety and quality systems
• Professional references from supervisors at partner companies

Week 14: Certification & Career Launch

The final week is dedicated to credentialing and job readiness:

• MSSC Certified Production Technician exam preparation and testing
• Resume finalization and interview preparation
• Employer meet-and-greet events with manufacturing hiring managers
• Individual career planning sessions with a BridgeWorks career coach

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Certifications Earned

• OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Safety Card -- required by most manufacturing employers
• MSSC Certified Production Technician (CPT) -- a nationally recognized credential covering safety, quality, manufacturing processes, and maintenance awareness
• Precision Measurement Certificate -- validates competency in using industry-standard measurement instruments
• First Aid / CPR Certification

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Career Pathways

Graduates are prepared for roles including:

• CNC Machine Operator
• Production Technician
• Quality Control Inspector
• Assembly Technician
• Manufacturing Associate
• Machine Maintenance Assistant

With experience and continued professional development, graduates can advance into positions such as CNC Programmer, Quality Assurance Supervisor, Production Lead, and Plant Operations Manager.

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Employer Partners in Manufacturing

BridgeWorks works with more than 40 manufacturing employers in the region, ranging from precision machine shops to large-scale production facilities. Our manufacturing partners participate in curriculum review, host training rotations, and commit to interviewing qualified graduates. Many partners have hired multiple BridgeWorks graduates and report strong retention and performance outcomes.

Employers who hire BridgeWorks graduates may qualify for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) of up to $9,600 per eligible hire.

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Who This Program Is For

The Advanced Manufacturing program is designed for returning citizens who want a structured career path in a stable, growing industry. No prior manufacturing experience is required. The program is well-suited for individuals who are detail-oriented, comfortable working with their hands, and motivated to learn technical skills.

Eligibility Requirements

• 18 years of age or older
• Returning citizen (involvement with the criminal justice system)
• Able to commit to the full 14-week program schedule
• Able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40 lbs
• Basic math proficiency (assessment provided during enrollment)

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Support During Training

• Weekly stipend to help cover living expenses
• Bus passes and transportation assistance
• Access to housing referrals, childcare support, and legal aid services
• One-on-one mentorship with a manufacturing professional
• Behavioral health support and peer counseling
• Safety gear and uniforms provided at no cost

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How to Apply

1. Complete the online interest form at bridgeworks.org or visit our office at 1200 Opportunity Drive, Suite 400
2. Attend a Tuesday orientation session at 10:00 AM (no appointment needed)
3. Meet with an enrollment advisor to discuss your goals and assess your readiness
4. Confirm enrollment and prepare for your cohort start date

Questions? Contact our admissions team at admissions@bridgeworks.org or call (555) 234-5678, ext. 2.