It’s no secret that companies are fishing in a small pool of qualified workers when looking to fill new advanced manufacturing positions, while concurrently struggling to replace retiring employees.
At a time when Buffalo’s industrial scene is picking up with employers like SolarCity – which has indicated it will hire 800 process/module technicians over the next year – the University at Buffalo (UB) Center for Industrial Effectiveness (TCIE) is working to rectify the talent void in Western New York. TCIE, which fosters improved operational performance among the business community, is offering manufacturing training that provides candidates the opportunity to earn nationally recognized credentials.
Certified Production Technician (CPT) training supplies the core knowledge and skills required for frontline manufacturing jobs. Content is based on industry-defined and federally-endorsed standards, and prepares candidates for baseline to supervisory level production roles.
Curriculum was developed by the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC), a national training, assessment, and certification system. The course educates candidates in four production modules: safety, quality practices and measurement, manufacturing processes and production, and maintenance awareness.
“When we researched how we could address workforce needs of the growing advanced manufacturing industry, we found MSSC to be an excellent enabler,” said Timothy Leyh, TCIE executive director. “The material aligns with the knowledge and skills we aim to cultivate.”
The 140-hour course features web-based education supported by classroom learning, which reinforces the virtual workspace lessons through interactive discussion and hands-on simulations. Candidates earn CPT certification after passing each production module exam.
TCIE is also providing a fast-track version for the experienced worker seeking some education. And as an authorized MSSC assessment center, TCIE offers the four core CPT exams, independently, to those who don’t need instruction but want the credentials.
“The CPT provides the foundation that manufacturers seek while also empowering workers with a portable credential,” Leyh said. “As the industry expands and more job opportunities arise, we believe MSSC programming will become a core workforce tool.”
The CPT is accredited under the only global certification body for manufacturers, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI-ISO 17024).
For more information about TCIE’s programs, contact Timothy Leyh at [email protected]. or 716-645-8844.
