Cincinnati MSSC Weekly

Outsourcing Cost Benefits All But Gone

2012-01-24T11:53:00.006-05:00

Since the Great Recession of 2008 manufacturing has led the very uneven recovery in the US economy. According to a Cornell University study..."US counties reliant on manufacturing jobs have out-performed the national average in terms of employment gains. In combination, a weak dollar, transport cost considerations and quality control issues, plus competititive wages and lower cost energy in what is still the world's largest market, have caused manufacturers to take a second look at locating their operations in the US." Cost factors are down to single digits in comparing total business costs between the US and outsourcing locations for much manufacturing due to many of the trends mentioned above. For small and medium size producers several components of the cost of doing business are critical in this new era.

Robust supply chains in established manufacturing regions such as the Greater Cincinnati area that work efficiently, access to new sources of capital, and a middle-skilled workforce are key drivers for established manufacturing corridors to further expand. No region is better placed to move ahead than Greater Cincinnati.

Green Production Training Certification Awarded

2012-01-17T13:36:00.003-05:00

MSSC announced the threshold score and the results of the Green Production Module (GPM) Certification assessment this week. 87% of the Cincinnati area assessment group were successful and obtained the first ever Green Production Module Certification.

"In developing GPM, we quickly discovered that 'green production' skills will be integral to all manufacturers interested in improving their sustainability performance," said council CEO Leo Reddy.

"Front-line production workers who are GPM-certified will be a powerful force in helping manufacturers to gain a competitive advantage in achieving their sustainability goals."

Last October at a national meeting in Dayton Ohio MSSC made available it's GPM text, Green Skills in Manufacturing: Essentials for Front-Line Production Workers. With the certification process in place MSSC is leading the US in green manufacturing training.

Apprenticeships & Other Training Options

2012-01-10T15:57:00.003-05:00

Manufacturing apprenticeships are simpler than ever. Even a single employee can maintain an apprenticeship at an employer through taking courses at a local technical or two year college. Fees might be shared between the employer and the apprentice. Public training dollars can also be brought into play. Employers set the terms and conditions of the apprenticeship though resouces are available from the state apprenticeship council and area educational institutions.

A local metalworking company, who's hired our MSSC graduates, uses job shadowing to assist new hires in learning the full operation of the company. The SuperJobs Center has OJT funds available to get new hires up to speed. Ohio employers have the ability to choose the training provider, and the company can either provide its own training, or engage an outside training vendor. The Ohio Workforce Guarantee will reimburse grantees the cost of approved training for full-time employees receiving at least $10.88 per hour, excluding benefits. Advanced manufacturing is one of the nine targeted industries for this program.

Options exist for incumbent worker training. Expanding opportunities for dislocated and young workers will need to also expand.

Free Field Tech Training Coming Up

2012-01-03T16:43:00.003-05:00

Dislocated workers interested in skills training should consider the Brownfields Environmental Field Technician training coming up in February. This 8 week set of courses will result in statewide lead, asbestos, and mold remediation certification along with the OSHA 30 hour safety credential. The training is daytime, free, and open to Hamilton County residents. An allied program is also recruiting trainees in Butler County. Contact workforce One of Butler County for more information.

For information contact 621-8882. This training is most closely associated with construction but environmental clean up, engineering, and natural resource companies often utlize workers with these skills. This will be the only free training of its kind in this area for 2012.

Some End of the Year Good News

2011-12-20T14:49:00.003-05:00

The local business journal reported today:
The local unemployment rate dropped to 7.8 percent in November, improving by 0.8 percentage points from October’s 8.6 percent rate, according to Ohio Department of Job and Family Services data.

Companies near the airport are expanding;
Italy’s Bonfiglioli is looking to expand its U.S. headquarters in Hebron. That would bring in 48 new jobs now and an additional 40 over the next decade.
And Ellison Surface Technologies, meanwhile, has proposed adding 60 jobs.

Best Wishes to everyone for a great holiday season, Steve Schumacher

2 down 2 To Go

2011-12-13T16:05:00.002-05:00

There's a trainee working to get his MSSC certifications who has shown tremendous dedication and hard work. MW works doing day labor to bring in some money now while he studies most weekdays here at our facility. He's gotten two certifications so far - safety and production processes. Of course to get into the program he obtained a National Career Readiness Certificate at the Silver Level on three WorkKeys assessments in reading, math, and locating information.

MW has strong industrial and manufacturing work experience. He will wrap up his two final certifications within the next two weeks. Employers interested in interviewing MW can contact Steve Schumacher, Training Coordinator for MSSC training at sschumacher@cincy-caa.org.

JobsOhio Chooses SW Ohio Partner

2011-12-06T15:06:00.003-05:00

The Cincinnati USA Partnership, in promoting its new strategic approach, wants to assist in expansion of present businesses in the advanced manufacturing sector. It is being given a key role in providing tax dollar incentives:

Cincinnati USA Partnership has been designated to be the region’s JobsOhio Network Partner. In this role, the Partnership will be the access point to state financial incentives in Brown, Butler, Clermont, Hamilton and Warren counties. The designation comes with a $2.6 million grant.

Cincinnati USA Partnership is a long standing program of the regional Cincinnati area Chamber of Commerce.

Job Expansions for Area Producers

2011-11-29T14:18:00.002-05:00

Regional Manufacturing job Gains:
For Cincinnati-based Enerfab, New EPA rules come with huge job gains

Enerfab plans to hire more than 1,000 employees over the next four years as it builds pollution control systems for utility plants in the Midwest and Southeast.

The engineering and construction company, based in Spring Grove Village, expects new pollution rules, now being finalized by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency to generate up to $1 billion in revenue for Enerfab between 2013 and 2016.

Pfister said Enerfab is likely to hire boilermakers, pipefitters, ironworkers and laborers.

This announcement of additional jobs at an area manufacturer came on 11/28/11:
Intelligrated Inc. plans to add 200 new jobs and double the size of its headquarters in Mason, pending approval of a $15 million incentive package from the city and the state of Ohio.

Intelligrated is a manufacturer of automated material-handling systems. The expansion announcement comes two years after a 2009 announcement that it was adding 267 jobs and adding a plant in West Chester.

The company said it will add 200 technical and engineering positions in research and development, system design and customer service. It will also construct a facility of between 60,000 and 90,000 square feet in Mason to support its growth. Construction plans are still being finalized.

Position your Company for Success Through Worker Training

2011-11-15T11:42:00.004-05:00

The Skills Gap and worker training keep emerging as a theme whenever people gather to discuss the economy.

At a recent meeting on manufacturing economist Alan Beaulieu asserted that not only is the area and the country not going into another recession but manufacturers need to be taking proactive steps to build their businesses. Among those recommendations are two mentioned below.

Beaulieu says he has 10 things he’ll advise manufacturers to do to make the most of economic opportunities. He gave us a preview of two of them:

1. Spend money on training employees. “Success is all about peak performance, and peak performance doesn’t happen accidentally.”

2. Invest in systems, processes, people, and facilities. “We’re heading into an inflationary period, and those efficiencies will differentiate the winners from the losers as we go forward.”

Invest in MSSC training for front line workers and supervisors to pave the way for expanding production.

Time To Fund Skills Training

2011-11-09T12:13:00.002-05:00

Cincinnati can train 500 technicians in 6 months to get MSSC credentials. Commitment needs to be amped up to bring the funds needed to achieve this goal. ODOD will be launching Ohio Workforce Job Training to provide up to 2/3rds of the training cost for national credential training.

Companies are having difficulty finding the skilled technicians they need. It is a gap that can be filled if a variety of funding streams are tapped. Both private and public sources have a strong interest in a skilled workforce.

Let public and private funding sources know that technical skills training will result in people being hired and companies making money.

Rail & Manufacturing

2011-11-01T11:41:00.003-04:00

One aspect of future manufacturing is increased rail freight.

Demand for railway freight is due to increase by 10 billion tons over the next 3 decades. To accomplish this some $70 billion in new investment to upgrade rolling stock, track, engines is needed. The increased demand and the upgrades that go along with expanded business can generate 1.4 million jobs - much of them in manufacturing.
Rail being more efficient and therefore less polluting than truck transport, is slated for this growing role in the coming decades.

Machining centers, component repairs, new efficient engine manufacture are some of the manufacturing needs. Training programs can get prepared for this increased demand now. MSSC Certification provides the foundation for these expanding transportation needs.

Mainstream Green Manufacturing

2011-10-25T14:08:00.003-04:00

Michael Packer, VP of Lockheed Martin, as was mentioned last post, was a featured speaker at the Green Production Module launch sponsored by MSSC on October 18th. He explained the successful and continuous green sustainability programs used by his company. He posited the integral connection between lean and green manufacturing. Elimination of waste throughout the production cycle being a central tenet of lean logically boosting the goals of wise use of resources, recycling, and energy efficiency so core to green manufacturing.

Companies with global reach look to green manufacturing and company-wide sustainability programs for a competitive edge, cost savings, and an early transition to a vastly reduced carbon economy of the next 100 years. Long term forecasts place increasing costs on ever scarcer carbon based fuels and increasing environmental degradation and climate change due to their use. Additional information on mainstream business practices in green manufacturing and sustainability can be found at www.greenbiz.com.

DOL Only Provides Training Grants for National Certificate Credentials

2011-10-19T09:16:00.003-04:00

Jane Oates, Assistant Secretary of Labor, spoke yesterday at the MSSC Green Production module launch meeting in Dayton, Ohio. In her keynote speech she categorically stated that no DOL training grants will be provided to any organization that does not have their trainees obtain national training credentials such as MSSC certification. This is coupled with the President's endorsement of the National Association of Manufacturers credential program including MSSC. The President is calling for 5,000,000 workers with these national credentials in five years. Jane Oates strongly supported registered apprenticeships in manufacturing.

Michael Packer, a Vice President for Lockheed Martin, delineated how green sustainable production processes have reduced their companies' energy and water usage while reducing their carbon pollution. He went on to explain how their Texas operations hired some 500 MSSC Certified Production Technicians for their plants. He called for national promotion of the pay, benefits, worklife, and knowledge driven occupations in US manufacturing.

Federal mandate and Fortune 500 utilization of nationally credentialed certificate training such as MSSC is building overwelming momentum for such training to be the standard across Ohio. Look for concerted campaigns across Ohio to get us in step with national manufacturers and the Dept of Labor.

Follow up posts will have more on the greening of front line production.

National Launch: Green Production Training

2011-10-11T08:34:00.002-04:00

The national launch meeting for the new Green Production Module will take place this coming Tuesday, Oct. 18th in Dayton, Ohio. Assistant Secretary of Labor Jane Oates will speak along with industry executives from Lockheed Martin and ThyssenKrupp Bilstein. The national Green Production Module (GPM)certification will be available for production technicians and frontline supervisors to gain this credential in sustainable production processes and products.

Interested companies should contact www.MSSCUSA.org today to sign up for this important meeting. The GPM is the only national training certification available for production techs and frontline supervisors in the US.

Manufacturing Carries Recovery

2011-10-03T10:13:00.003-04:00

This clip from Reuters underscores the importance of manufacturing in the US economy:

(Reuters) - Factory activity expanded at a faster pace than expected in September as production and hiring increased, the latest sign of resilience in manufacturing despite faltering economic growth.

The Institute for Supply Management said on Monday its index of national factory activity rose to 51.6 last month from 50.6 in August.

September marked the 26th straight month of expansion in a sector that has shouldered the broader economic recovery.

Economists polled by Reuters had expected the index to edge down to 50.5. A reading above 50 indicates expansion manufacturing.

A measure of factory employment rose to 53.8 last month from 51.8 in August, while production climbed to 51.2 from 48.6.

Math Learning & Technical Training

2011-09-27T15:53:00.005-04:00

Learning math, separated from how it is used in everyday life, is like learning a foreign language. Way too many prospective trainees come to us and fail to reach the minimum required score on the WorkKeys assessments in math. Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates provides short term tutoring to prepare people to take the math assessment but often its not enough.

The math of dollars and cents, of baseball and football statistics, or cookbook menus makes more sense as places for adults to tackle math problems than numbers divorced from the real world. The problems found on the shop floor can provide a strong grounding for trainees but only if they have that factory experience. Improvements in math teaching at all levels will serve our trainees well but also the wider workforce. Technical manufacturing training will be held back as long as sub-par math instruction remains prevalent.

Skills Training Becomes Craft

2011-09-20T13:49:00.003-04:00

Skills training is an exchange between the hard work and careful thinking of the trainee and the recognition and granting of technical credentials. This process builds on the sense of craft on the part of the trainee as well as pride in their accomplishments and carries over into the employment. It is often a spur to further training and education.

We've seen this process unfold many times. One trainee became a supervisor in a mill and used the extensive leadership methods outlined in MSSC training. Another used his technical knowledge to move up in the company to more complicated jobs. A third is just starting out with a company but was offered a higher starting wage to begin his job.

Certified production technician training thru MSSC and Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates is a door to building a craft in the manufacturing trades. Once you have it, it can't be shut down or outsourced. You have a lifetime to sharpen your trade.

President Calls for National Credential Training

2011-09-13T10:35:00.004-04:00

On Sept. 8th the President outlined a set of proposals to support job growth in the US. Among those proposals were both sector based training programs and increased acquisition of industry-recognized credentials. The National Association of Manufacturers promotes MSSC training as one of its national credentials.

We know there is a strong need for upgrading technical skills among the manufacturing workforce. This new set of proposals will provide vital support for training low wage workers, stuck in the temp assignment ratrace, and get them Certified Production Technician (CPT) credentials and permanent jobs.

We also have in this metro area a strong sector based collaborative that supports national credential training. With these building blocks in place CPT training will give a real boost to underemployed and unemployed workers.

Interview CPTs Today!

2011-09-07T09:14:00.002-04:00

Here's a brief description of some of our certified production technicians who've begun searching for new employment.

Jay has five years experience in machine maintenance plus other production experience. He averaged over 90% on all his certification assessments.

Royce has 7 years experience with managing, training, and providing apartment maintenance and has excellent customer service skills. He would be a tremendous asset with a position interacting with internal or external customers.

Jason has worked in the automotive industry and has 15 years experience with all type of auto mechanics. He would be excellent working with instrumentation, gauges, and measuring instruments.

If you would want to interview one or more of these CPTs or some of our other graduates contact Steve Schumacher at CMC.

2011-08-29T12:15:00.002-04:00

Certified Production Technicians (CPT)graduated from Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates last Thursday including Royce in the photo above. He mentioned his daughter, who he's holding, as a key reason for pursuing skills training with the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council. He plans to build a future for her and with all his national certifications he's well on his way.

Members of CMC cohort number 8 who've gained employment are averaging well above the $13.50 mean average CMC had for 2009-2010. John, another CPT, just received a job offer that day from a metal working company in Cincinnati.

Hearty Congratulations to all graduates from CMC Cohort 8!

Job Creation Currently

2011-08-16T15:04:00.004-04:00

An employer related that since the first of the year orders have come cascading in to their company. The deluge is so heavy that they've had to stretch out how quickly they can supply these customers. This is a Cincinnati company and it is hiring several classifications of new employees.

Honda is adding another shift to its assembly plant at Marysville, Oh.

Blue Ash-based Amp Electric Vehicles is supplying 1,000 electric vehicles to Northern Lights Energy of Iceland.

And Graeter's has opened its new 28,000 square foot production plant as part of a larger plan to expand its brand nationally. The plant has quadrupled the company’s ability to make ice cream.

Gov Kasich will explain how the JobsOhio organization will increase job creation.
The Cincinnati presentation is planned for Aug. 25, at 9:30 a.m. at the Westin Hotel downtown.

New Ohio Training $$

2011-08-10T17:15:00.003-04:00

Under the latest Ohio budget, the Ohio Workforce Job Training program has been funded at $20 million in 2012 and $30 million in 2013. This voucher program allows employers or employees to apply for up to $6000 in training support as long as at least 33% of the cost of the training is paid by the employer or employee.

It is yet to be determined if the voucher program has any eligilibility for dislocated workers. We will follow information from the Ohio Dept of Development closely on this.

With this program certificate programs and associate degrees are with the reach of companies and their employees who want significant new technical training. MSSC training would also be an option for these training vouchers.

Cincinnati Region Sees 25% of Job Growth in Production

2011-08-03T12:15:00.003-04:00

The Cincinnati Enquirer reported on Monday that 1 in 4 new jobs since the beginning of the year in this area has been a manufacturing job. The article also reports that July was another strong month for manufacutring expansion in the region. Production and new orders were up sharply and employment is growing. This trend is likely to continue considering overall economic conditions including the value of the dollar low against other currencies along with interest rates. Manufacturing will be growing for years even while other industries are in the doldrums.

There is a job out there for you in manufacturing. It is a diverse sector with a wide variety of jobs, good pay, and skills to learn and practice.

Technical Know-How Lasts A Lifetime

2011-07-26T14:52:00.002-04:00

Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates has begun training a new cohort of production technicians. After getting his safety certification, one of our trainees has just started a job working for a consumer goods producer. He is starting at over $20 an hour. We're excited that he has such a good opportunity and he plans to complete all his certification training.

Getting full certification as a production technician with MSSC is good for obtaining a better job. It is more important long term for keeping and improving a technician's work, responsibilities, promotions. Technical know-how can't be taken away from you and your versatile skills will keep you in the next company and the one after that. To make yourself indispensable improve your technical skills.

8th Cohort Gains 1st Certification

2011-07-19T14:58:00.003-04:00

The Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates CPT training class has obtained safety certifications through the MSSC system. Congratulations to all the trainees! Instructor Robert Jones is moving on to the quality module. We are planning for a CPT graduation around the 3rd week of August.

Trainees have begun obtaining employment. Employers are interested in speaking with the training class and looking at resumes. Past graduates will be giving motivational talks to the trainees.

This national credential endorsed by the National Association of Manufacturers is becoming the standard in Ohio for core skills manufacturing training.

Auto Industry Grows Regionally

2011-07-12T14:17:00.003-04:00

Good news down the road..
Ford Motor Co. has begun accepting applications Thursday for the 1,800 jobs the company is adding at its Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky. With this announcement comes the multiplier jobs from suppliers and vendors in the region. This will have a positive impact on auto parts suppliers in the Cincinnati region.

Couple this with the 1000 jobs for Honda in Indiana and you have a sizable impact on the auto industry in this area. This expansion is in line with predicted growth in the auto sector beginning this year.

Getting a good job means getting good training. Make the most of your opportunities to upgrade your skills.

Lead Technician Plans to Speak to CMC Trainees

2011-07-05T17:16:00.004-04:00

CMC got a visit from a Certified Production Technician last week. Sam's working as a lead technician now, been promoted, driving a new company truck, and making more money. He started late last year and because of his knowledge and flexibility has become a trusted employee. He had gained his CPT credentials last summer through CMC.

We're pleased he's doing well and he plans to come back to speak to the CMC training course this summer. He wants to encourage others and help them trust that they can reach goals of higher pay, promotion, and leadership. Oh, one other thing about him, he's somebody who made a mistake years ago when he was young and has a felony conviction.

He's making the most of his second chance.

CMC Begins Technician Training

2011-06-28T16:36:00.003-04:00

The next certified production technician course begins this week for Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates. Taught by long time Ford superintendent Robert Jones, each of the 15 trainees will be preparing and taking the 4 production certifications - safety, quality, production processes, maintenance awareness over the 7 week course.

This National Assoc of Manufacturers endorsed credential was highlighted by Pres. Obama in his June 8th speech in N Virginia.

We anticipate that this cohort will be a great success!

Last Chance for MSSC Training!

2011-06-21T11:53:00.003-04:00

U.S. automakers in the next five years are expected to add about 34,000 new hourly and salaried workers nationwide, according to a study by the Center for Automotive Research.

2011 Manufacturing and Logistics National Report gives Ohio an “A” grade on the health of both industries (logistics & manufacturing) – measured by federal employment and wage data – and its global reach, measured by export and foreign investment data.

Now is your chance to get national credentials in manufacturing skills! Contact Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates to enroll in MSSC Certified Production Technician Training today! Applications can be obtained at Community Action Agency, 1740 Langdon Farm Rd Cincinnati 45237. At the main reception desk ask for a "manufacturing training application".

Expanding Opportunities!

2011-06-14T11:19:00.003-04:00

If there were any doubts that there are opportunities in the manufacturing field take note:
The Los Angeles Times reports the council (President's Council on Jobs and Competitiveness)also has released its initial job-creation recommendations:

•Develop training partnerships with community colleges and vocational schools to help fill what they said were more than 2 million job openings in advanced manufacturing in the United States.

Area companies such as Mazak and GE have set up apprenticeship programs. Richards Industries, a valve maker, is hiring trainees. Other area expansions have been noted here in the automotive industry.

Contact CMC today to enroll in national manufacturing certification training!

Regional Manufacturing Expansions

2011-06-07T09:55:00.003-04:00

In regional manufacturing news: 'ThyssenKrupp Bilstein of America Inc. has plans to expand its operations in Hamilton by bringing a product line of shock absorbers from its main plant in Germany and making it here.

According to Hamilton city documents, the project cost is estimated to be $7.3 million and would create 60 new jobs paying an average $14 an hour.' Middletown Journal

In another regional development, Honda autos is doubling its output at its Greensburg, In. plant. This will involve hiring 1000 new workers. While all hires are, by agreement, coming from the Indiana counties surrounding the plant, researchers in workforce trends say this expansion will spur another 2600 jobs from suppliers, retailers, and logistics firms. Thyssen Krupp Bilstein is one such a supplier. Indiana residents can go to www.Indiana.Honda.com to pursue an application at the Greensburg Honda plant.

Region Led by Manufacturing

2011-05-31T14:55:00.002-04:00

The regional economy is being driven by expansion in the manufacturing sector. A Cincinnati Enquirer story reported today that the index of Purchasing Management was up with a strong expansion indicator number of 62.3, this is the third reading over 60 in the last 4 months. Any number over 50 indicates the region is growing.

Manufacturing activity is up around the region with both employment and production increasing. Shortages of skilled technicians are becoming more pronounced. The trends of manufacturing driving the recovery and shortages of skilled technicians are projected to continue for years.

MSSC offers a vital skill training opportunity at this economic crossroads.

GE Apprenticeship

2011-05-24T14:26:00.004-04:00

GE Aviation will start a three year apprenticeship training program for instrumentation mechanics this summer. Interested applicants can do so down at SuperJobs, 1916 Central Pkwy this Thursday, May 26th and Friday May 27th.

Applicants are required to fill out a registration form and bring a resume one of those two days. A straight email method for applying can be done through navigating the Superjobs website to get the registration form. Put GE Instrumentation Mechanic Apprenticeship Program on the subject line of your email.

This apprenticeship and the Mag program show the importance top manufacturers put on training skilled technicians and the large investment made by these companies. Remember that if you have an opportunity to get skills training in the manufacturing trades.

Regional Workforce Collaborative

2011-05-17T15:37:00.003-04:00

Workforce Investment Boards from the Tri-State region including workforce services in 10 counties along with the Greater Cincinnati Workforce Network established a regional collaborative; the Employers First Regional Workforce Network. It's aims are to align and communicate across organization and boundary lines to prepare a more skilled workforce and provide access to these workers by all the region's employers.

Jane Oates, Assistant Secretary for the US Dept of Labor spoke via video link to the Employers First job summit in Fairfield today. She outlined an emerging industries training grant program for 2 year colleges, a transitional jobs program, and a private employer summer jobs coordinating website www.DOL.gov/summerjobs listing thousands of summer youth jobs.

Next week we provide a preview of the Jobs Ohio created by Gov Kasich to speed up business development.

Workforce Across Borders

2011-05-10T16:24:00.002-04:00

The Tri-State region crosses 3 state borders, at least 9 county borders, and dozens of municipal boundaries. The region includes thousands of employers, educational institutions, training providers, and job service programs. Cooperation across this wide array of workforce stakeholders is a key strategy - simple in concept and difficult in practice. The broad collaboration of the Greater Cincinnati Workforce Network is setting nationwide benchmarks in organizing and launching career pathway programs using nationally recognized credentials.

GCWN representatives recently returned from conveying that message and seeing our work as a national bellwether from the ACT Workforce conference in Chicago in April. In addition, for the first time in a local area, Workforce Investment Boards from a three state region will collaborate on workforce activities in our region. The Tri-State can only stand to gain.

Manufacturing Pathway Has New Leader

2011-05-04T15:18:00.002-04:00

The Greater Cincinnati Workforce Network has organized a manufacturing career pathway to assist employers and workers in boosting the technical level of the area workforce and marshalling skilled labor for area production facilities. This career pathway has new leadership in Janice Urbanik. Janice has a background in research and development and engineering at Proctor & Gamble, studied at the University of Pittsburgh, and consulted with Construction Process Solutions.

Welcome Janice to the manufacturing career pathway when you see her as the project works to find a long term site for a permanent home. Our region can only get better by firmly establishing this career ladder program.

Math & Manufacturing Training

2011-04-26T13:50:00.004-04:00

Math is a big obstacle for many people to get improved jobs in manufacturing. MSSC nationally requires that trainees score at least a level 4 on the WorkKeys Applied Math assessment. This is roughly equivalent to 10th grade work. We have a skilled volunteer tutor who helps trainees prepare for this assessment. He's clear that building confidence and a sense of success is important to this achievement. Also vital is chopping up math operations into the smallest steps possible to make it very clear how to move from one part of a problem to another. Often learners need clear contexts for math that connect to their lives.

CMC uses the Keytrain preparation materials that are prepared specifically for taking WorkKeys assessments. While these materials are geared to the WorkKeys assessments they are not good at offering contextual foundations nor inspiring confidence by their use alone. We are very fortunate to have a great tutor who inspires confidence in trainees and sets problems into context.

Short term preparation, however, is not a substitute for improved math learning and teaching at all levels of education.

Auto Parts Manufacturer Adds Product Line

2011-04-19T14:33:00.002-04:00

An area auto parts manufacturer contacted our office a few days ago to let us know that they were considering for hire 14 of our CMC graduates. We are excited about this development as this is a solid company with steady growth and a commitment to teaching and promoting MSSC certified technicians. The company is starting a new product line and will need a significantly larger workforce.

Your training today can pay off big tomorrow. Never underestimate the preparation you put in now returning benefits in the future.

WorkKeys Tests and MSSC Training

2011-04-13T10:21:00.003-04:00

States are adopting the WorkKeys battery of tests that constitute the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC). Indiana, Michigan and other nearby states use this set of three assessment tests - math, reading, and locating information - to convey to employers the basic capabilities of certificate holders. MSSC has had this qualification as its minimum standard from the beginning. ACT, the developer and administrator of the WorkKeys tests, has conducted over 10 million of these assessments and asserts that the NCRC is a ready guage of workplace capacity.

You can get both your NCRC and MSSC national certification through enrolling in CMC training. The application deadline is Wednesday, April 20th. Hamilton county residents only - contact CMC at 569-1840 ext 1049.

MSSC Training Application Deadline

2011-04-05T14:46:00.003-04:00

MSSC training begins at the end of April. There are only two weeks until the deadline for applications. Walk-ins to 1740 Langdon Farm Rd can pick up an application at the main lobby reception desk by asking for a 'manufacturing training application'. To be eligible for this free national certification training applicants' household income must be below 125% of the Federal Poverty Guideline, at least 18 years of age, and a Hamilton County resident.

Contact 569-1840 ext 1049 for more information.

Retail cost of this training is over $2500.00 and Ohio companies are looking for higher skilled technicians.

Local and Technical?

2011-03-29T09:09:00.003-04:00

This Wednesday the next Brownfields Environmental Field Technician class graduates. This 8 week training includes lead, asbestos, mold, confined space, hazardous materials handling plus OSHA 30 hour training. CMC Coordinator Steve Schumacher conducts 32 hours of career development training for this training group. For more information on Brownfields training contact LaVerne Mayfield at 513-621-8882.

The NYT published (3/28/11, The Future of Manufacturing Is Local)a lengthy article on local manufacturing becoming important to pride of place. San Francisco and New York are two areas where local consumer product makers are gaining notice. While artisan producers of food and apparel products are great for building business and jobs, other models exist for local and regional manufacturing of internationally recognized and valued products. Constant technical knowledge building and innovation are key elements for manufacturers who ship goods across the globe. Producing world class goods requires that level of technical expertise. Technical training such as MSSC is a core building bloc for such successful production.

IMPACT Act Will Grow Manufacturing

2011-03-22T08:58:00.005-04:00

Ohio could improve manufacturing further with legislation introduced in the US Senate:
Senate bill (H.R. 3083) “Investments for Manufacturing Progress and Clean Technology (IMPACT) Act,” is targeted at boosting domestic clean energy manufacturing and ensuring that new clean energy jobs stay in the United States. The bill would provide resources for small and medium-sized manufacturers through a 2-year, $30-billion manufacturing revolving loan fund, which will help them to become more energy efficient, retool facilities, and retrain workers to produce clean energy products.

This kind of proposal will provide expanded job opportunities for certified production technicians. Contact CMC at 1740 Langdon Farm Rd, Cincinnati to pick up a manufacturing training application at the main reception desk. Next MSSC production technician training class begins at the end of April.

MSSC Course Begins April 25th

2011-03-15T08:47:00.002-04:00

Trainees interested in getting MSSC production certification can pick up an application at the CHCCAA, 1740 Langdon Farm Rd in Bond Hill. Please ask for a 'manufacturing training application' at the main floor reception desk. Applications can be completed and returned to that reception desk. Trainees must be 18 years of age or older, live in Hamilton County, and have household income below 125% of the Federal Poverty Guideline to be eligible. A minimum level four score is required on the WorkKeys assesments. These assessments are conducted shortly before the training course begins.

The MSSC training will be in the evenings starting at 5:45 pm and applications for the upcoming course will accepted until April 20th. To obtain further information contact 569-1840 ext 1049.

CPTs & New Product Lines

2011-03-08T13:55:00.002-05:00

A plant HR manager contacted CMC some days ago looking for resumes from certified production technicians (CPTs). His company is starting a new product line and with any new start unexpected challenges arise. CPTs are trained to identify, diagnose, and develop solutions for production problems. Their broad-based core skills help them remain flexible and versatile in production environments. MSSC training is a fundamental building block for improving workforce skills.

Mazak, a machine tool builder in N. Kentucky was featured on NBC news. The news story highlighted the need for closing the skills gap for technicians. Here's the link:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032619/vp/41858510#41858510.

Link to Best Practice Award Article

2011-03-01T15:58:00.004-05:00

Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates received a Best Practice Award from the John Glenn School of Public Affairs, OSU and the Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies.
Here’s a link to an article on the award and the program online:

http://www.thecincinnatiherald.com/news/2011-02-26/News/CAA_receives_Best_Practice_Award_for_job_training_.html

Note- the Institute of Supply Management reported the highest growth number (71.2)in the manufacturing sector over the last reporting period since 1988. A number over 50 shows expansion in the sector.

Manufacturing Leads Cincinnati Regional Recovery

2011-02-22T12:00:00.003-05:00

Cincinnati area manufacturing jobs will continue to lead the recovery from recession. A local auto parts maker Bilstein is looking at substantial employment for new electronically controlled shock absorbers. Suncoke will be opening its new plant within a few months with over 100 positions. Other employers will be adding jobs at semi and skilled level classifications.

Without skills training it's very difficult to advance in manufacturing. Sunday's Enquirer 2/20/11 discusses the value of manufacturing training to employers. Check out that article and look into opportunities to upgrade your skills.

CMC Spring Course

2011-02-15T14:14:00.004-05:00

Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates will hold a Spring 2011 course. Interested dislocated or unemployed workers can pick up an application at CHCCAA, 1740 Langdon Farm Rd in Bond Hill. At the main reception desk ask for a 'manufacturing training application'. The application can be completed there and turned in to that same reception desk.

All applications are reviewed for possible candidate interviews. If chosen to enter into training candidates must score a level 4 on three WorkKeys assessments including Applied Math, Locating information, and Reading for Information. For more information on the 4 national training modules visit www.MSSCUSA.org.

Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates Given Best Practice Award

2011-02-01T10:56:00.003-05:00

Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates (CMC), a program of CHC Community Action Agency, has been given a Best Practice Award by the Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies and the John Glenn School of Public Affairs at Ohio State University. This Best Practice Award recognizes innovative program initiatives around the state of Ohio that have strong potential for improving the self-sufficiency of low income families. Thanks to all the instructors, staff, and trainees for making CMC a success!

The award will be received at a luncheon on Thursday, February 3rd in Columbus. Companies wishing to take advantage of the enhanced skills of MSSC trained technicians or to get more information on the MSSC training system used by CMC should visit www.MSSCUSA.org or contact training coordinator Steve Schumacher at sschumacher@cincy-caa.org.

Do You Fit the 'New Job'?

2011-01-25T10:40:00.003-05:00

From New York comes an article about a training and employment readiness program called Year Up. Year Up, working exclusively with young adults, provides intensive training in information technology and other key business capabilities but its most important work is in preparing low income Black and Latino youth in fitting with corporate work culture. The Director describes their work as preparing youth in learning, 'hard skills and harder skills'. Trainees gain lessons in how to carry themselves in all types of work settings, team challenges, asking for feedback and criticism, soliciting additional work if they are in a lull. Public speaking, meeting new business colleagues or competitors plus a thousand other large and small interactions provide essential knowledge and skills to make a new job fit.

Employers place up to a 1/3 of their hiring decision on the issue of a good fit between the applicant and the company. Year Up seems to be a good model to help other employment readiness programs to improve their training in the area of work culture and fit.

Sustainability & Workforce Training

2011-01-18T11:28:00.003-05:00

Sustainability is a buzz word in business today. But what does it mean and does it have any importance for manufacturing training? One way to look at sustainability is long term risks and opportunities. A large waste stream from manufacturing is a vital risk and opportunity. Can this waste be reused, made into other products, sold to some other processor or manufacturer? What is the impact if your competitors reuse or redirect their waste stream before you? Is there a regulatory crisis brewing about this and a public relations nightmare especially if your company has ignored its waste and your competitors have not.

Turning to industrial and manufacturing training - is there a need for training in the risks and opportunities of sustainability? MSSC nationally is piloting its new green manufacturing module. This is one response to the need for training in sustainability. Yet another aspect of sustainability is companies having the skilled workforce they need. This is a long term set of issues that is best addressed by a region-wide response. Finding, qualifying, & training skilled technicians can take a very long time and 5 years from now if your company can't find the 'talent' you need it's possible to point to a lack of sustainability in your company's strategic outlook.

New MSSC Instructor

2011-01-11T10:56:00.004-05:00

Robert had a long career with Ford Motor Co. Over his 30 years he's learned first hand the value of skills training in manufacturing. He finished up working at the Ford Batavia transmission plant where many of the plant workers he hired benefitted greatly from his positive attitude and patient guidance.

Working with CMC, he was a job developer and talked to employers all over the region about the value of MSSC training. He's now become an MSSC instructor and will conduct the comprehensive course with trainees in this region.

Congratulations to Robert on his achievement! CMC trainees can look forward to learning from his wealth of experience in the manufacturing arena.

Manufacturing Expands Here

2011-01-04T15:52:00.004-05:00

Manufacturing in the Tri-State region continues to grow. The business press reported that for many months in a row manufacturing activity has been growing. Hiring is often confined to small numbers or temporary positions. Export industries are particularly hot now as the cheap dollar and Asian expansion are driving their production. Meanwhile corporations are awash in cash, sitting on a record $902 billion with the pace of higher dividends, stock buy backs, and company acquisitions increasing.

Investment in training will pay off for these companies in higher worker productivity and quality. A large percentage of the workforce needs to upgrade computer and technical skills. Companies investing in future workplace knowledge and skills pays off for everyone.

SECTORS Act - Summary

2010-12-29T09:06:00.001-05:00

Readers will recall the SECTORS Act passed the House and enjoys bi-partisan support in the Senate. We look for it to be enacted this coming year.
The “Strengthening Employment Clusters to Organize
Regional Success (SECTORS) Act of 2008”
Bill Summary

Overview – Industry or sector partnerships organize stakeholders connected to an industry—multiple firms, labor unions, education and training providers, and local workforce and education system administrators among others—to develop plans for growing (or saving) that industry, with a particular focus on building new workforce pipelines where skilled worker shortages exist and transforming the ways existing workers are utilized, retrained and compensated. These partnerships have long been recognized as key strategic element within some of the most successful state and local workforce development efforts in the country, but current federal policy does not provide adequate support for these initiatives.
The “Strengthening Employment Clusters to Organize Regional Success (SECTORS) Act of 2008” would amend the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and establishes a new Industry or Sector Partnership Grant program administered by the U.S. Department of Labor. Grants are intended to allow recipients to establish or expand industry or sector partnerships that lead collaborative planning, resource alignment, and training efforts across multiple firms for current and potential workers within the targeted industry cluster.
Types of Grants - Eligible entities may apply for a one year planning grant of up to $250,000 and a three year implementation grant of up to $2.5 million. Eligible entities receiving an implementation grant may apply for a $1.5 million renewal grant for an additional three years if certain conditions are met. Eligible entities must leverage increasing amounts of non-federal funding each year they receive federal funding.
Priority in awarding grants will be given to eligible entities that work with high road employers, help workers move toward economic self-sufficiency, address the needs of firms with limited human resources or training capacity (including small- and medium-sized firms), and coordinate with State and local entities engaged in workforce investment, economic development, and educational activities.
Careful Targeting of Industry Clusters – Prospective grantees are required to identify targeted industry clusters using a number of criteria, including the competitiveness of the industry cluster, importance of the cluster to the economic development of the area or region being served, demonstrated demand for skilled workers and the availability of jobs and career opportunities leading to economic self-sufficiency for current and potential workers.
Broad Range of Required Grant Activities - Grantees must commit to carrying out a range of strategic activities, including identifying and aggregating the training needs of multiple employers, helping postsecondary educational institutions and other training providers align curricula and programs to meet industry demand, and improving job quality through improving wages, benefits, and working conditions for workers.
Rigorous Reporting and Program Evaluation Requirements - Grantees must submit annual reports on grant-funded activities, and must conduct annual evaluations of progress towards strategic objectives, using predetermined performance measures with quantifiable benchmarks.
2
Robust Technical Assistance and Information Sharing - The SECTORS Act requires the Secretary of Labor to promote the success of the Industry or Sector Grant program by providing technical assistance to eligible entities applying for and administering the grants, issuing performance measures, and disseminating information on best practices in industry or sector partnerships through conferences, websites, and annual reviews.
Enhanced Coordination of Federal Training and Education Programs - The SECTORS Act increases the coordination and alignment of existing education and training programs by requiring the heads of all Federal agencies and departments to maintain up-to-date information on the impact of their policies on workers, and to develop and implement policies that improve the jobs and careers of affected workers.

New Opportunities in the New Year

2010-12-22T09:35:00.003-05:00

What does the new year hold for skills training and Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates(CMC)? Here are some key developments to look for:
1. Ohio sets statewide manufacturing training standards - the leading training system is MSSC but state politics could intervene,
2. CMC restarts training with newly certified instructors including Robert Jones,
3. national Sectors ACT passes providing resources for the area advanced manufacturing career pathway,
4. MSSC training will continue to be the best training value for any manufacturing workers looking to gain higher pay, promotions and job security.

Cincinnati MSSC Weekly will follow all these developments as they unfold. Happy Holidays to all our trainees, employers, and career pathway partners.

Manufacturing Pathway Makes an Impact in Washington

2010-12-15T14:39:00.002-05:00

Local construction and manufacturing leaders met in Washington with the Dept of Labor, at the White House, and with Senatorial staff in support of the Sectors Act already passed by the House of Representatives. In the course of these meetings the work of the Cincinnati area career pathway programs in manufacturing and construction were noted by officials there. The Sectors Act passed by acclamation in the House and will get bi-partisan support in the Senate. This law will free up Workforce Investment Act dollars to support the work of career pathways.

Butler County is offering MSSC training for unemployed and underemployed workers starting January 31st. Hamilton county residents are eligible. Call Workforce One at 785-6500 and ask about the Manufacturing Production Technician Program.

Manufacturing To Continue Growth Cycle

2010-12-07T11:59:00.004-05:00

Manufacturing grew for the 16th straight month in November. The outlook for 2011 is for continuing expansion reported Business Week today. In an article headlined "U.S. Factories See Stronger Sales, Spending in 2011, ISM Says", sales are projected to increase over 5% with capital investment jumping 15%. Reports are even more optimistic for the 2nd half of 2011 with increases in employment in manufacturing projected to be over 5 times that of the service sector.

All of this is good news for new workers wanting a career in manufacturing. Getting advanced skills such as MSSC training will only serve to enhance those prospects in the coming year.

Sputnik Moment?

2010-11-30T10:29:00.003-05:00

"Renewables are the new space race for the US", stated Energy Secretary Steven Chu at a speech to the National Press Club on Monday. "With the rest of the developed and developing world moving toward renewable and cleaner energy technologies, the time is now for the nation to seize the initiative.
“America still has an opportunity to lead in a world that will need essentially a new Industrial Revolution,” he went on to say. R & D organizations and manufacturing companies in the Midwest and specifically in SW Ohio can play a big role in making the turbine components, bioreactors, advanced energy storage, smart grid assemblies and other systems needed for this new industrial revolution.

A highly trained technical workforce is one other essential piece of the puzzle. As a nation and a region isn't time we embrace emerging technologies to improve energy efficiency, renew the environment, and end our dependence on foreigh oil? SW Ohio can build much of what the world wants in renewable energy - and in so doing we can renew our own economy.

CMC Nominated for Award

2010-11-19T14:57:00.002-05:00

Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates is being nominated for a Best Practice award by the Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies. We'll know in a couple of months if CMC is being given this recognition. It's just one more sign of the timeliness and importance of intensive quality training such as provided by the MSSC training system.

On a follow up post - two area employer representatives were in Washington in support of the Sectors Act - Check out pictures of Scott Ellsworth from Tipco Punch and Liza Smitherman of Jostin Concrete through the following link: http://www.workforcealliance.org/See Latest News ...the SECTORS Act is a political winner with strong bipartisan support. The group of employers and NSC staff met with White House officials from the Domestic Policy Council and Office of Management and Budget. On Capitol Hill, the group met with Senator Sherrod Brown’s office (lead sponsor of the SECTORS Act) as well as Senate HELP Committee staff. At their meeting with Jane Oates, Assistant Secretary of DOL’s Employment and Training Administration, the group was welcomed by Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis. Read more and view photos from the week.

Training & Employment

2010-11-16T14:17:00.002-05:00

CMC provided training under ARRA from October 2009 until September 2010. Over that time we provided MSSC production technician training to 7 cohort groups totalling 99 trainees. Ten didn't complete their training. Forty of the trainees have since gone to work with an average wage over $13.50 an hour. We are continuing to work with our technicians so they can secure employment.

CMC is reorganizing after the ARRA period and will restart training in early 2011.
Applications can be filed at CAA by asking for a manufacturing training application at the reception desk of CAA, 1740 Langdon Farm Rd.

CPTs Go To Work!

2010-11-09T09:07:00.003-05:00

A group of certified production technicians(CPTs) from CMC are beginning work this month at a local foundry and machine job shop. Another local employer, who has hired from CMC, has been named a finalist for the best places to work in the Cincinnati area. Both have around 200 employees and are very careful about bringing on new hires. The HR Managers from both these companies have come to speak at CMC.

Congratulations and best wishes to all our CPTs going to work and still in the job search. While the job market is still very hard, it's possible with good training to get employment with a great company!

Green Jobs: MSSC Training

2010-11-04T09:09:00.002-04:00

The local Blue Green Alliance released a report on Green Jobs a couple of weeks ago in the Cincinnati region. This report makes a number of recommendations to prepare the workforce for such green jobs, developing funding mechanisms, and providing technical assistance to businesses making this type of transition.

The national MSSC training system is launching a green job training module as part of its Certified Production Technician curriculum. Dislocated and incumbent workers will want to get this new training to advance in the energy, lighting, green building, and other emerging industry sectors.

Area Survey: Manufacturers Looking for Skilled Hires

2010-10-26T14:26:00.002-04:00

A new survey sponsored by the Grtr Cinti Workforce Network got in touch with over a 120 employers of which the biggest group were manufacturers. Over 3/4 of the employers who responded expect to do hiring over the next 3 to 5 years and 7 out of ten employers use employee referral and word of mouth recruiting. And over a third of the employers report having difficulty finding qualified workers for their current openings.

Implications of the survey include the continued value of networking for employment and getting technical training such as the Certified Production Technician training at CMC. Get further information on the Grtr Cinti Workforce Network at www.cincinnatiworkforce.org.

Bio-Ohio: Entryway into Pharmaceutical Jobs

2010-10-19T15:29:00.003-04:00

Bio-Ohio is a new training program to prepare technicians for jobs in pharmaceutical and other biotech enterprises. Training is provided at low or no cost and pay scales for jobs in this area are good to very good.

CPTs who have obtained MSSC certification and have an interest in the biotech field should contact Jim Kleemeier at 569-4955 with Cincinnati State. A local pharmaceutical manufacturer is preparing to hire dozens of production people and they especially want new hires to have the Bio-Ohio training.

For more information enter BioOhio into a search engine and follow the prompts. This training opportunity is a once in a generation bonanza.

Erie, Pa Meeting On Manufacturing Innovation

2010-10-12T10:29:00.003-04:00

Starting today through the 14th, Penn State University at Erie, Pa is hosting a Manufacturing Science and Engineering Conference. Leading companies including Cummins, Ford, and GE, along with research and innovation organizations such as Cincinnati's TechSolve will be on hand to contribute their knowledge and experience.

US manufacturing is changing rapidly with a higher than ever emphasis on continuous improvement processes leading to productivity gains. To work effectively in this production environment technicians need problem solving and continuous improvement skills themselves.

To gain an edge get MSSC certification as a production technician. See the accompanying contact information to get in touch with Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates.

7th Certified Production Technician Graduation

2010-10-07T10:28:00.002-04:00

(L-R) Clinese Provens, William Owens, Mark Carroll, Delante Shepard, Joe Adkins, Jonathan Coleman & Joe Newstate (Not pictured: Mark Fritz, Kim Graham, Terrae Howell, Ray Jordan, Jason Price, Wendy Riley, & Navea Stanford)

Cummins Engine

2010-09-28T13:40:00.003-04:00

Cummins Engine, with headquarters in Columbus, Indiana is a $10 Bil company doing business in 190 countries. Making heavy duty diesel engines, electrical power generation systems, filtration and fuel systems among other product lines, Cummins is a progressive company active in their home communities and supporting community wide development to improve where they live and work.

Cummins is a strong supporter of MSSC training. "Cummins greatly values the knowledge and skills acquired by students using the MSSC curriculum,” said Mark Gerstle, Vice President of Corporate Quality and Chief Risk Officer at Cummins Inc. “When recruiting in southern Indiana to fill open production positions, we will actively seek candidates with MSSC CPT certification.”

Cummins has a facility in Walton, Kentucky. A Certified Production Technician from CMC was hired this month by Cummins to work in that Walton operation.

Manufacturing: Engine of Opportunity

2010-09-21T10:38:00.005-04:00

Manufacturing generates an added $1.37 for every dollar of manufactured goods. Over half the exports from the US are manufactured products and the US is the world's largest exporter. Average compensation in manufacturing is over $60,000 - highest in private industry. Increases in manufacturing productivity are double that of other economic sectors.

These basic facts about manufacturing add up to opportunity for new workers entering manufacturing and dislocated workers getting back into industry. New fields and occupations are opening up in biotech, energy, the environment, advanced sensors and controls, and much more.

Keep in mind that skills training in manufacturing opens the door to technical know how, team work, and problem solving & those add up to higher pay, promotions and new challenges.

Indiana Leads Ohio State

2010-09-15T11:11:00.003-04:00

Companies in a local multi-county area support MSSC training by giving candidates preferences in hiring and increased pay. Some 18% of the workforce in this area comes from Ohio. This area is SE Indiana and includes such companies as Cummins Engine, Aisin USA (automotive), Madison Precision (machining).

Ohio can step up to the plate and support a higher skilled workforce by adopting MSSC statewide as the standard of core manufacturing knowledge and skills. All industry will benefit from having a workforce dedicated to continuous improvement.

Let your elected officials know that you support national standards and training to create world class manufacturing technicians.

Scarcity of Trained Technicians Looms

2010-09-07T10:32:00.002-04:00

"Across Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, manufacturers are producing airplane parts, vinyl windows, prefab bridges, burial caskets and movie-theater popcorn machines. Employment is starting to creep back up, with 5,000 more jobs this year over last. Employers are promoting high-tech positions that can pay up to $25 an hour, with excellent fringe benefits.
This Labor Day weekend, manufacturers say their main challenge is not a loss of work, but finding sufficient new workers with specialized, high-tech skills. Unless significant gains are made, the industry that helped build the Midwest faces a future labor shortage caused by the exodus of aging employees and an outdated image of unskilled factory work."

This how 'Manufacturing Enters a New Age' an article in Sunday's Enquirer begins. Young jobseekers wanting a dynamic field with new learning a constant, good pay, and opportunities for advancement should look to advanced manufacturing. Take a look at this feature from the Enquirer to get a clearer picture of new possibilities opening up.

Core Skills Training Leading to Specific Technical Careers

2010-08-31T14:57:00.003-04:00

Intensive training can open up new opportunities for dislocated workers. After trainees having dedicated themselves to obtaining national production certifications, industry specific programs can open up occupations often not considered part of manufacturing.

One such opportunity exists now in what's known as Bioscience. Certification and/or Associate Degree scholarships are available at 6 Ohio Community Colleges including Cincinnati State. This training could lead to employment in pharmaceuticals, medical device and diagnostic producers, plus other related employers.

MSSC graduates and others interested in this opportunity should contact:
Jim Kleemeier, Cincinnati State, Workforce Development Center, 569-4955.

Costs Reduced & Hiring Up

2010-08-17T12:16:00.002-04:00

3 Items about growth in manufacturing:
1. The state's manufacturing sector is shaking off some of its rust — and its Rust Belt reputation. Want proof? The The U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee reports that more than 19,600 manufacturing jobs were added across the state during the last year.

2. The sun has been good to northwest Ohio.

A number of local alternative energy companies are turning sunlight into usable energy and, in turn, a gloomy economy into a brighter future. Sound like a cheesy government pamphlet? Not so fast.

More than 5,000 new jobs have materialized in the Greater Toledo area, thanks to an innovative handful of upstart solar energy companies, in the form of retailers, suppliers, researchers and installers. And the clincher? Most of them are still accepting applications.

3. The US government just passed the Manufacturing Enhancement Act of 2010 that reduces import tariffs on all types of raw materials for manufacturing. This will reduce costs and spur production by several billion dollars.

Employer Comes Seeking Technicians

2010-08-10T16:17:00.003-04:00

An employer came to us today to get ahead of the game. He wants to talk with our graduating class of Certified Production Technicians. He is going to explain and demonstrate how important the enhanced skills of MSSC training are for advanced manufacturing. And by the way, he's looking to hire some of those technicians.

Please take the time and get to know Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) training. If you're making hiring decisions for a company this is where you find skilled people. If you're an employee or jobseeker wanting to gain national core qualifications for manufacturing contact us. Either way our workforce and manufacturers are better off.

This is a great path to a greater Cincinnati!

Ohio Nears Advanced Manufacturing Training Standard

2010-08-03T15:16:00.004-04:00

The Director of the Ohio Department of Development, Lisa Patt-McDaniel, spoke in Cincinnati late in July concerning economic development in our region. She emphasized employees engaging in lifelong learning to continue improvements in advanced manufacturing. She further went to explain that Ohio is right now deciding on state wide standards for advanced manufacturing certificate training. Knowledgable observers believe that MSSC Training, or an almost identical, expanded training program, will be adopted.

Employers across Ohio will then see much higher visibility for the national MSSC training system in the Buckeye state.

Sector Trainees Earn 29% More: National Study

2010-07-27T15:35:00.003-04:00

CMC graduate Darren Cook (above) discusses different features of ball bearings in presenting information to his CMC training course.

A new report found that participants in sector training programs such as CMC earn an average of 29% more, work more hours, and are more likely to obtain a job with benefits. The report from Public/Private Ventures also explains that sector partnerships, such as the Greater Cincinnati advanced manufacturing pathway, are active in 40 states.

The Future in Manufacturing

2010-07-20T14:36:00.003-04:00

A CMC graduate was just offered a job at a packaging company in the Cincinati region. He'll be paid over $15 an hour to start and we expect he'll be a great success.

Average wages in manufacturing are higher than many industries and certified technicians can do much better. Manufacturing is becoming the focus for training across the US because community wealth, in the form of wages, salaries, and tax revenues, can grow with successful companies. A trained, knowledgable workforce is a crucial component for growing industry. The US House of Representatives has recognized this fact by passing on a voice vote yesterday legislation to provide targeted training to industry sectors such as advanced manufacturing. Authored by Ohio's Senator Brown, the bill will send training dollars to help prepare the workforce in expanding areas of the economy.

Contact CMC today for more information.

CMC Graduates 5th Cohort

2010-07-13T13:55:00.004-04:00

Graduates: Vincent Pilot, Ray Adkins, Julian Terrell, Instructor Ed Riffe
Seated: Louis Coleman, Aaron Boone, Sokie DeJesus, Frances Moore
(not pictured: Mike Bullock, Roman Rice, John Bowers)

One Third of Industrial Companies Report Skill Shortages

2010-07-06T13:45:00.003-04:00

Skills training will only grow in importance over the next two decades. The skills gap has become major media news.

The NY Times recently published an article called,'Factories Ready To Hire But Skilled Workers Scarce'. In the article a survey is noted that found 32% of over 700 industrial companies reported moderate to serious skill shortages.

A CNC operator for 15 years at an aerospace company had his HR director say, 'We need 10 more people like him'. MSSC training has been set up to fill this skills gap. If you have an interest in learning as much as possible about the manufacturing trades contact us today.

Industry Pro Sparks Trainees!

2010-06-29T14:26:00.004-04:00

On June 24th, the Operations Manager at a local foundry and machine shop came to learn first hand about Cincinnati Mnaufacturing Certificates. After talking with trainees and the instructor and getting an understanding of the on-line curriculum, Gary spoke to the group. Among the many jobs his company does is make 80,000 lb moldings for wind turbines. He explained that they need technicians who know their way around a plant, can work as a team, and are safety conscious.

Coming away impressed with the knowledge and experience of the CMC trainees and graduates there, Gary's colleague in HR asked for resumes to be sent to him for consideration. Gary also offered to return to CMC to talk with other classes. He strongly supports upgrading the skills and knowledge of our workforce and stands ready to support training at CMC.

Costs & Benefits of CMC Training

2010-06-22T13:30:00.002-04:00

What's the real cost of training? MSSC Certified Production Technician training costs two to three thousand dollars depending upon any added services. The online curriculum and assessments for the full comprehensive training cost $740. Added to this are instructor fees, textbooks, measuring instruments, rent, staff assistance, qualifying tests and other costs. Most of these costs are incurred during the four and half weeks of training.

Compare those costs to the average wage that CMC graduates obtain when they get a job. The difference between this average of $13.50 an hour and $10 an hour is, of course, $3.50 an hour. In eighteen weeks making $3.50 more an hour than a $10 an hour job you'll pay for the cost of the training. This is one benefit of training.

Right now there is no cost to CMC trainees. Contact CMC today.

CMC Graduates Speak at GE

2010-06-15T14:40:00.008-04:00

CMC graduates Tim and Leah discussed the cross training and team building offered in the MSSC Course. These are two key competencies sought by advanced manufacturing employers.

As a result of the GE meeting, an employer who runs a metal foundry will be coming to the CMC training lab next week to tour and discuss new training options. We think that Tim and Leah made a great impression on this employer and others there and that's one of the reasons for their visit. Come join us at the CMC training lab.

GE Hosts MSSC Training System Meeting

2010-06-08T14:16:00.003-04:00

Industry HR managers, manufacturing operations personnel, and CMC graduates are meeting tomorrow at General Electric Aviation to learn more about how certified production technicians and the related MSSC training system can bridge the skill gap for the manufacturing workforce. Workforce leaders from across the state have called about participating in this important session. The central presentation will be by Thomas Barnes, HR Manager for ThyssenKrupp Bilstein in Hamilton, Ohio. Tom will be explaining how his company makes the best use of MSSC training and the certified technicians they employ.

We will be sharing more on this meeting in upcoming posts. Employers that missed this opportunity to gain competitive advantage through MSSC and its certified technicians can contact Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates (CMC) directly.

For dislocated manufacturing workers, you too can gain these national certifications and like our graduate IJ, start a new job at $16 an hour.

Make Training Pay!

2010-06-01T14:37:00.002-04:00

Two recent graduates are going to work today. Darnetta and Barbara each got jobs - one with an international beverage and bottling company and another with a chemical corporation. Each is making above our average wage for graduates of $13.50 and Darneta is well above this level as she has begun work as a supervisor.

They have some things in common. They went about a thorough and skilled job search. They knew that they had skills to offer an employer, good training, and an ability to fit well with a lot of companies. They knew what they wanted.

Congratulations to them both - they have used CMC training to its best advantage!

MVT - Most Valuable Training!

2010-05-25T14:31:00.007-04:00

Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates (CMC) held its graduation for Certified Production Technicians on May 13th. We're happy to report that two of our graduates are already employed with more to come.

If you're looking for the most comprehensive and valuable month of training around or you're looking for a skilled certified technician contact CMC today.

Instructor Profile: Rick Shiverdecker

2010-05-19T14:44:00.001-04:00

Rick Shiverdecker was a millwright for thirty years. He moved, welded, and set up heavy machinery for Delphi automotive. He’s a trained firefighter and a hazardous materials and safety instructor. He began instructing production technicians through a community college in his area.

Besides teaching safety and hazardous materials courses, he's been a firefighter instructor, and now teaches the Certified Production Technician course. He understands first hand the value of the four MSSC modules to safe and productive operations in manufacturing. Rick is convinced that gaining a wide ranging knowledge of manufacturing through the MSSC production technician course will help the individual technician and the companies that hire them. Rick, in speaking to his latest graduating class commented, “A highly skilled technician who has responsibility for an entire operation line is more productive than an unskilled machine tender and MSSC gets that technician ready.”

Perhaps you or your company can take advantage of Rick’s knowledge or the graduates he’s trained through Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates.

Dayton MSSC Project

2010-05-11T14:24:00.000-04:00

$4 Million Federal Grant Allows Division to Train Dislocated Workers in Ohio
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Dayton, Ohio
IUE-CWA has won a $4 million training grant to help dislocated workers train for clean, green energy and manufacturing jobs.
Less than 15 percent of grant proposals submitted were selected to receive a grant; The Division was awarded one of just 25 grants total. The grants are funded by the Obama administration's economic stimulus program.
Workers who have lost auto industry and other manufacturing jobs in Ohio are first in line for the training. Training will focus on green manufacturing skills that prepare workers for jobs in the energy efficiency and renewable energy industries.
Students will be eligible to be certified as manufacturing production technicians through the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council. The certification is nationally recognized and endorsed by the National Association of Manufacturers.
As part of the grant application, major employers in the Dayton area reviewed the training and stated that certified applicants would top their list of potential new hires.
The MSSC training covers four areas: safety, quality, production process and maintenance.

2010-05-04T12:15:00.000-04:00

Top Notch Instructor - Ed Riffe

2010-05-04T12:09:00.001-04:00

Ed Riffe brings his extensive knowledge and wide experience with advanced manufacturing to his instruction of new MSSC trainees at Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates. Ed has been a manufacturing manager, a marketing vice president, and a senior sales consultant for a Fortune 500 company. He has a Black Belt Certification in Six Sigma/Lean Manufacturing training and has served as a national subject matter expert on MSSC Assessments.

Ed is committed to educating the next generation of manufacturing technicians and teaches industrial technology courses at Butler Tech and the MSSC Certified Technician course at CMC. A strong advocate of small team work groups, CMC trainees are trained by Ed to rise to the challenge of working in tight knit small groups to improve productivity and expertise.

CMC trainees get a dynamic education and a depth of understanding when Ed leads the way.

Brad (left below) writes about working with CMC

2010-04-27T09:18:00.001-04:00

Complete - With a Job!

2010-04-27T09:15:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone, I just got home from day 2 of WORK......it has a nice ring to it doesn't it. If any of you don't already know, I was hired by a top auto components maker as a 3rd shift assembler. The pay is ok, but it's the benefits that I so desperately needed. I love the job,....the shift; not quite as much, but I'll get used to it. I don't know if you realize it, or thought of it in this way, but the MSSC program is alot like my new job. Steve put me on the line and moved me along to Angie, who moved me along to Rick, who moved me along to Robert.....and now here I sit....COMPLETE. The reason that I'm writing to you is simple....THANK YOU. Very seldom in life is something everything that someone hopes it will be, but the MSSC program was just that. I couldn't be more thrilled (unless I was on first shift) and I owe it all to the four of you. I just wanted to write and let you know how much I enjoyed the experience, and to let you know how appreciative I am. From the bottom of my heart, thank you again. If someday one of your classes doubt the power of this program, feel free to read this letter to them....maybe it will give them the faith that I sometimes lacked. I hope to see you all again sometime. Brad

Stephanie Takes the Lead

2010-04-20T08:33:00.003-04:00

Stephanie applied to and successfully earned her National Career Readiness Certification as a prerequisite for entering the Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates (CMC) program at CHCCAA. Stephanie, a resident of Over The Rhine, obtained national certifications in Safety, Quality, and Production Process provided by the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council and CMC.

After obtaining her certifications in December of 2009, she interviewed and was hired as a lead worker at a local packaging company. Her starting wage was $11. She has the responsibility of leading a product line of 5 to 6 people. This mother of two is always willing to pitch in by assisting when needed; as well as finding efficient, alternative ways of getting the job done. She wants to use her skills, training and experience for improvement in her career. She pays attention to detail and wants to always be learning.

No matter if you are looking for an opportunity to improve your manufacturing skills or wanting to hire technicians with a great skillset in the manufacturing trades contact CMC today!

Family Man Goes to Work!

2010-04-13T09:01:00.008-04:00

Shamare is a family man. He's in the front row on the left in the picture above, among this recent group of graduating certified production technicians.

He came to the MSSC training program last December looking to improve his manufacturing skills and get a job to support his children. He quickly prepared for and passed his WorkKeys assessments obtaining a gold level designation with the National Career Readiness Certificate. He went on to obtain certificates within the MSSC training program including safety, maintenance awareness, and production process. See http://www.msscusa.org/ for more information on the national certification program.

He began looking for work in January with the help of Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates. Through an interview set up by CMC with an international auto parts company that has a local operation he began a serious job search. He then interviewed with and was hired by a second machining company providing components for the automotive industry at $11 an hour to start. Today he looks forward to an improving future, having obtained national manufacturing qualifications, and then moving promptly back into the paid workforce.

Whether you are production worker on lay off or a manufacturer looking for qualified technicians you can contact us today to build the future!

What is the Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates Program?

2010-04-02T11:44:00.001-04:00

The Cincinnati Manufacturing Certificates (CMC) program is a training course available at no cost to individuals seeking to sharpen their skills and obtain production technician certifications sought after by nine different manufacturing sub-industries. Over the course of 4.5 weeks (140 hours), participants are put through rigorous training and testing to assure their readiness for hire.

Trainees will gain 4 National Production Certifications in:

Quality;
Safety;
Production Processes; and
Maintenance Awareness.

CMC uses the national training and certification curriculum developed by the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC). MSSC Production Technician Certifications are nationally recognized and can help individuals get promotions, higher pay, and job security. The certifications demonstrate to employers that the applicant is pre-qualified to meet the performance expectations of a production technician.

Upon successful completion of the program, CMC staff will match graduates with companies hiring manufacturing technicians for job interviews. Trainees are provided with a stipend over the course of the training and resources for transportation.