The Workforce Alliance of South Central Kansas is launching a new job-training program that’s designed to get more people into the advanced manufacturing industry.
The Workforce Alliance is coordinating a tuition-free training program that’s expected to start next spring. The U.S. Department of Labor awarded a $6 million grant for the project.
Students at Wichita State University, Hutchinson Community College and Wichita Area Technical College will be able to get paid on-the-job training at area manufacturers in addition to their classroom education.
Workforce Alliance President Keith Lawing says it’s an effort to get more skilled workers in the pipeline for in-demand jobs.
"We’re going to really focus on an 'earn and learn' model," Lawing says. "So when someone enrolls in the training, we’re working with an employer upfront, and that employer will provide jobs."
Lawing expects about 1,100 students to take part in the on-the-job training program over the next four years.
"This grant will allow people to get tuition-free training that is done with an employer, in addition to a local community college or university, to help them prepare for jobs in advanced manufacturing," Lawing says.
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