The Manufacturing Institute has developed a plan to accelerate deployment of the Skills Certification System. This plan includes a number of steps that must be taken by groups across a state or region. So, whether you are an educator, manufacturer, human resources executive, workforce developer, legislator, or thought leader, there is a tool for you to start impacting your community.
Integrating the skills certifications into education pathways implies that they should become part of degree programs of study, so that a worker can progressively pursue stackable credentials and “bank” credits, engaging in a lifetime of learning. This upwardly mobile ladder directly demonstrates how learning is a continuum throughout a worker’s life as more competencies are acquired and documented with a recognized credential. Credentials gained through the Skills Certification System will strengthen an individual’s ability to be mobile in the workforce, compete for higher-level jobs, and move to in-demand careers.
How Do I Get Started?
Planning and Research
Use data-driven decision making to determine high-growth industries/high-demand occupations, target critical career pathways for development and map manufacturing-related assets and resources.
Design and Development
Based on targeted career pathways and programs of study, engage industry leadership to build employer demand and recruit supportive faculty to audit programs against certifications requirements.
Implementation
Take action to fill skill gaps in curriculum, provide professional development, develop systems to award certifications and recruit students into target manufacturing-related programs of study.
Reassess for Continuous Improvement
Report on outcomes, repurpose for continuous improvement and plan for sustainability.
