Press Releases
MI to Launch New AI Skills Training for Current and Future Manufacturing Workers
September 24, 2026The Manufacturing Institute is launching free AI Fundamentals courses to train manufacturing workers in AI skills, backed by $10 million from Google.org. The initiative aims to reach 40,000 workers as 82% of manufacturers say employees lack the skills to use AI effectively.
FAME Adds Six New Chapters, Bolsters AI Skills Development
May 29, 2026The Manufacturing Institute's FAME program is adding six new chapters funded by $300,000 in inaugural Catalyst Grants, expanding to 52 chapters in 19 states and bolstering AI skills development with support from Google.org.
MI Grows FAME Network with Six New Chapters
May 28, 2026The Manufacturing Institute awarded $300,000 in Catalyst Grants to launch six new FAME chapters across six states, expanding its earn-and-learn apprenticeship network to 52 chapters as AI reshapes manufacturing and 400,000 jobs sit unfilled.
The MI Talks Tech, Safety and Jobs at the AI for the Economy Forum
May 7, 2026Manufacturing will need to fill 3.8 million jobs by 2033, MI President Carolyn Lee said at Google and MIT's AI for the Economy Forum, noting 82% of manufacturers say workers lack the skills to fully use AI—a technology she says will boost safety and retention, not replace…
Google Announces $10M to the Manufacturing Institute to Develop AI Skills for the Manufacturing Workforce
April 13, 2026Google is giving $10 million to the Manufacturing Institute to develop AI training for manufacturing workers and expand FAME apprenticeships, aiming to train 40,000 workers and strengthen the industry’s talent pipeline.
New Study from PwC, MI Finds Frontline Leaders Play a Key Role in Manufacturing AI Adoption
April 3, 2026PwC and the Manufacturing Institute found frontline leaders are critical to manufacturing AI adoption, yet many lack readiness and training. The report says success depends on upskilling workers and involving frontline leaders early.
Manufacturing Institute Announces Global Materials Leader Saint-Gobain as Platinum Sponsor of MFG Day 2026
April 2, 2026The Manufacturing Institute named Saint-Gobain platinum sponsor of MFG Day 2026, highlighting student plant tours and STEM activities in Georgia. The event aims to boost manufacturing career awareness amid a projected worker shortage.
Manufacturing Institute Honors 145 Leaders with 2026 STEP Ahead Awards
March 9, 2026The Manufacturing Institute named 145 recipients of its 2026 STEP Ahead Awards, honoring manufacturing leaders who strengthen the workforce through mentorship and supportive workplace cultures. The gala will be held April 23 in Washington, D.C.
Building the Workforce of the Future: Manufacturers Spotlight Talent, Technology and Training in Dallas
February 25, 2026NAM’s Dallas tour spotlighted how AI, training and employer-led programs like FAME are helping manufacturers build a skilled workforce for the future. Leaders stressed that workforce investment is essential to innovation and economic growth.
The Manufacturing Institute Launches New IA FAME – Riverbend Chapter in the Quad Cities to Build Local Workforce
January 27, 2026The Manufacturing Institute launched IA FAME – Riverbend, Iowa’s first FAME chapter, to train advanced maintenance technicians through paid apprenticeships with local manufacturers and Eastern Iowa Community Colleges. The program aims to meet growing regional workforce demand.
