IRSC Manufacturing Program Gains National Attention For Outstanding Workforce Preparation

Harry Brubaker, Production Trainer, Piper Aircraft, provides direction during IRSC’s Fast Track to Manufacturing Program.

The Fast Track to Manufacturing Program at Indian River State College earned national attention for outstanding workforce preparation and economic development by the League for Innovation in the Community College. The IRSC program is featured in the April Member Spotlight of the international non-profit organization as a proven training ground for manufacturing companies and individuals gearing up for employment on the Treasure Coast: https://www.league.org/member-spotlight/indian-river-state-college-fast-track-manufacturing-program-aids-businesses-and-job.

The Fast Track program provides short-term, industry-specific training for entry level positions and specialized skill building for incumbent workers.  Participants earn a nationally recognized credential overseen by the Manufacturing  Skills Standards Council – the MSSC/CPT Certification – reflecting the competencies of a Certified Production Technician. 

A seven-week boot camp is offered on a rotating basis throughout the year at the IRSC Regional Training Facility at Paradigm Precision, a manufacturer of fabrications and precision machined components for gas turbine engines, which has dedicated a portion of its Stuart facility for the training.

The MSSC/CPT Certification training is highly valued by employers for its focus on production, maintenance, safety, including OSHA 10 certification, and quality assurance, with sections covering industrial measurement, calibration and blueprint reading.  Additional hands-on experiences are incorporated, such as sheet metal fabrication, hand and power tools, and composite materials. A recent enhancement merges construction training through the National Center for Construction Education and Research CORE curriculum, serving as a prerequisite to certifications in welding, machining and industrial maintenance.

Graduates have been hired by Laser Components, AutoLabe, RS Labs, CVS, INEOS Biofuel, Triumph Aerostructures, and Paradigm Precision. One reason for the program’s success is involvement of the College’s Manufacturing Advisory Council, composed of manufacturers sharing real-world expectations. CareerSource Research Coast, a nonprofit organization connecting businesses and public and private entities, covers tuition costs for many of the participants. For more information, contact Joe Gorham, Florida Trade Grant Coordinator at jgorham@irsc.edu or (772) 462-7637.

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Contact:  Michelle Abaldo
Director of Institutional Advancement
O - (772) 462-7265   C - (772) 519-1123
mabaldo@irsc.edu