Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship Program
What is AMP?
Advanced manufacturing technicians use innovative technologies to produce high-quality products and supplies for a variety of industries including automotive, aerospace, construction, agriculture, prepared food and medicine. Individuals who train for the technical skills needed in today’s manufacturing environment will find a diverse selection of career paths.
The Penn College Advanced Manufacturing Pre-apprenticeship (AMP) Program is designed to increase knowledge of manufacturing concepts and skills, and to expand the number of prospective employees choosing manufacturing-related career pathways.
The AMP Program teaches pre-apprentices both foundation theory and hands-on skills to prepare them with entry level skills for many manufacturing occupations, such as a CNC machinist, mechatronics maintenance worker, plastics process technician or team lead.
Course Details
Now enrolling high school juniors and seniors for a new AMP Program cohort starting January 24, 2025. Grant funds are available to underwrite tuition for public and private school students. For more information email pre-apprenticeship@pct.edu.
The Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship provides foundational technical knowledge and skills in the manufacturing sector. In addition to academic concepts found in manufacturing – mathematics, measurement and chemistry – AMP pre-apprentices will learn the fundamentals of manufacturing by studying safety, inspection, fasteners, manufacturing processes, computer numerical control (CNC), and robotics. Finally, students will be introduced to advanced manufacturing principles including quality control, lean manufacturing, and supply chain. Pre-apprentices prepare for the Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) Certificate from the Society for Manufacturing Engineers (SME). Pre-apprentices also explore the career paths available in today's manufacturing industry sector. Total hours: 60.
Teaching Method: Coursework includes:
- Self-directed online learning modules
- Instructor-led discussions
- Hands-on laboratory sessions
- Project-based learning is employed to enhance the application of learning.
Topics include:
- Shop Essentials (Applied Mathematics)
- Safety
- Quality
- Lean
- Inspection
- Fasteners
- Manufacturing Processes
- CNC
- Chemistry
- Robotics
Prerequisites
Algebra I – high school or college equivalent
Lexile Reader Measurement: 1100 – 1125 (9th grade level)
Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship Components
Self-paced computer learning modules
Industry-recognized CMfgA Certification
Industry Simulations
3 On-campus Lab Days
Industry Networking and Career Event
Earn Industry Certification
Pre-apprentices who successfully complete the AMP Program earn the Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) Certification from the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, a pre-apprenticeship certificate from Pennsylvania College of Technology, and a certificate of recognition from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
The Advanced Manufacturing Pre-apprenticeship is aligned with four registered apprenticeships in Advanced Manufacturing offered by Pennsylvania College of Technology:
- Computer Numerical Control Operator
- Industrial Manufacturing Technician
- Mechatronics Technician
- Plastics Process Technician