rWorkers today are called on to be subject matter experts in what they do. Gone are the days when someone can clock in and do a repetitive skill for hours. Today's workforce demands more: the same worker must now know how to assess, troubleshoot, fix, and communicate in a much more global sense. Work is less silo-ed, more interconnected with other teams. Added requirements are making it difficult for employees to stay ahead of demands, creating a skills gap. 

How do you train employees for these enhanced skill requirements? Many are turning to Registered Apprenticeships to fill the void. 

According to Why Apprenticeships are Taking Off, registered apprenticeships, not to be confused with less formal or company-specific apprentice programs, have five defining features:

• Employers pay participants during their training.
• Programs meet national standards for registration with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) or state apprenticeship agencies.
• Programs provide both on-the-job learning and job-related classroom or technical instruction.
• On-the-job learning is conducted under the direction of a mentor.
• The training results in an industry-recognized credential that certifies occupational proficiency.

Apprenticeships allow employers to hire and train workers with the necessary skills, while students can avoid an unnecessary financial burden of student loans. According to the Department of Labor, 87 percent of apprentices are employed after completing apprenticeship programs, with an average starting salary above $50,000.

Registered Apprenticeship programs make a lot of sense in both urban and rural settings, and are easier to implement and facilitate than you may realize. In fact, the U.S. Department of Labor offers several registered Apprenticeship programs, backed by curriculum from leaders in education, like Amatrol. 

Looking to learn more, or get started today? Contact Moss for learning opportunities. 

Moss is proud to offer equipment and curriculum from Amatrol’s Advanced Manufacturing program. Amatrol’s industry leading equipment and curriculum is developed in partnership with industry to deliver job ready, industry relevant skills. Working closely with companies like Caterpillar, Tropicana and many others Amatrol has designed equipment for work place success.
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Key Features

• Highly Demanded Industry Skills: Hands-On, Job-Ready
• Individualized Self-Paced or Group Learning Flexibility
• Extensive Curriculum Spanning Basics Through Advanced
• Authentic Industrial Troubleshooting
• Durable, Industrial Equipment Designed for Effective Teaching
• Superior Multimedia Interactivity Connects With Learners
• eAssessment to Accelerate Learning, Improve Effectiveness
• Learning Anywhere, Anytime – 24 x 7
• Outstanding Support
• Computer Based Training (CBT) with Amatrol’s eAssessment (available via the web)

​Want to ensure you are covering your bases and addressing the skills training most needed in your region? Check out the skills chart, which aligns coursework to job-ready skills:​

(Click image to zoom)

Learn more about available programs - contact Moss today for program details. 

ITC: Building the Workforce of Tomorrow
Today's economy requires workforce members to possess a range of technical skills that can be used in team-based environments, so current students must develop both specialized hands-on skills and essential workplace skills like problem solving, teamwork and effective communication. 

Amatrol's Integrated Technology Concepts (ITC) program offers technical skills training across a wide range of real-world areas through project-based learning while interweaving essential workplace skills through team-based projects. This combination of skills and knowledge will put students on a path toward exciting career opportunities in areas like supply chain, automated distribution, engineering, medical, and more.

Strong STEM Integration Facilitates College Credit, Industrial Certification Prep
In addition to essential workplace skills, ITC emphasizes STEM skills. Combining STEM skills with hands-on applications helps to meld theory and practice in student's mind, which will assist them in knowledge retention and building skills for more advanced concepts. This STEM integration allows for many schools to establish transferable college credit hours for ITC courses. 

Amatrol's ITC proram is also a strong foundation in preparation for several industrial certification. Amatrol partners with organizations including NIMS, MSSC, ITEEA, and more for certifications like MSSC's Certifiied Production Technician and NIMS' Industrial Technology Maintenance certifications. 

Foundational Systems for Successful Careers
The first step of ITC is Amatrol's Enterprise Systems courses, which provides the framework for integrating multiple technical skills successfully using teamwork. Students begin by exploring different technology sectors before studying team concepts, product design, business presentations, internet research, and much more. 

ITC Quick Facts

• Amatrol's ITC 96-product line features 44 available courses covering 148 multimedia modules and 867 skills
• Flexible content can be adjusted based on student, school or community goals
• Self-directed as well as student-led instruction
• Authentic assessment ensures real skill development
• Basic and advanced levels available for high schools and colleges

Want to learn more about this (or any other Industrial Technology program from Amatrol)? Contact Moss for an in-depth look today. 

The FANUC Advanced Automation Challenge 2.0 invites all CERT schools to work with local industry to create problem solutions. This challenge provides students the opportunity to improve their STEM skills and become familiar with the advanced manufacturing industry. 

This challenge encourages students to work with manufacturers to design a solution or solve a problem using FANUC products or an integrated solution with technology from FANUC, Rockwell, Cisco or Lincoln. Students (aka “Tomorrow’s Innovators”) will have the opportunity to test their STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) skills and critical thinking abilities. 

Students will interview a manufacturer to learn about their processes and consider potential opportunities to apply their skills and knowledge. Students will use their school’s robot, CNC, or advanced manufacturing technology to develop/design a workable solution and provide a demonstration.

Creativity is encouraged - students decide how simple or complex their solution is. 

The goal of this open-ended challenge is to change the perception of what todays advanced manufacturers looks like and introduce manufacturers to Tomorrow’s Innovators. This challenge will prepare them for exciting STEM career opportunities, develop their problem-solving skills, and introduce them to real-world advanced manufacturing applications.

Manufacturers need a workforce that is prepared to work in the new, Smart Factories of Industry 4.0. FANUC, together with Rockwell Automation, Cisco Systems, and Lincoln Electric, are committed to supporting education programs that serve the needs of the advanced manufacturing industry.

Awards will include a FANUC Robot, a FANUC CNC Simulator, a Rockwell PLC/HMI package, FANUC Simulation software, and technology from Cisco and Lincoln, representing over $100,000 investment in STEM education programs.

A recently published article in Manufacturing Business Technology, " Next-Generation Manufacturing: Are You Ready?" addresses the changing face of manufacturing facilities. These cutting-edge facilities embrace information-based approaches to manufacturing, advanced technologies, and a growing number of younger workers. An excerpt:

"There is a revolution underway in manufacturing today that is ushering in a new era for the industry. If you take a step inside and look around one of today’s most advanced facilities, you’ll see it’s a far cry from the dark, dirty and dangerous rust-belt dungeons of manufacturing days gone by. Instead, these forward-thinking facilities are clean, bright, efficient workplaces that use some of the most cutting-edge technological advances available — robotics, 3D printing, mobile internet, cloud computing, big data and the Internet of Things (IOT) — to gain an edge in the marketplace with greater efficiencies, increased productivity, and other advantages that equate to a much healthier bottom line."

​“What do you want to be when you grow up?” This is a favorite question for relatives to ask students at the holiday dinner table. It’s a great question – it help Aunt Sue understand which classes a student enjoys, and prompts the student to think about and articulate their plans for the future.
 
While students are accustomed to sharing career aspirations about jobs they are familiar with – “doctor” “firefighter” and “construction worker” --  students in Pitsco Expeditions labs may have new answers this year. That is because Pitsco is weaving in Career Connections into every Expedition, giving students exposure to exciting careers, and a context for the skills they are learning.
 
Introducing Junior High students to careers like Product Designers, Entrepreneurs, Materials Tester, Crime Lab Specialist, Chemists, and Architects serves a couple of purposes:
 
Understanding the “Real World”
When a student starts to think about what they can do after graduation, they start to look at the world around them in a different way – they look through an empowered lens with confidence. They begin to understand the role each career can play in the world around them, and how they would improve that career.
 
Adds Relevance to Current Lessons
When they can add relevance to an abstract concept, like why understanding math and simple circuits is a building block for a future in electronics or electrical engineering, they start to take the lesson more seriously. Students go from rote memorization to truly understanding a concept and how it applies outside of the classroom.
 
Explore Aptitude
Students, especially at the middle level, learn so much about themselves through trial and error. Having a hand and “trying out” careers like “Concert Lighting Technicians” broadens their mindset, and helps them consider career paths they may not have previously considered. Let’s face it, we are educating students for careers that haven’t even been invented yet, so building a solid skills foundation, as well as a broad scope is important.
 
Transcends Economic Factors
Often, a student’s socio-economic background has an effect on the careers they are exposed to. Career connections play an invaluable role in expanding a student’s horizons.
 
Expeditions by Pitsco Education aim to expand and draw career connections for students. Click below for a complete list of career connections by Expedition.
 
You tell us: why are Career Connections so important to middle level students? How do you introduce your students to potential career paths? 

Experts are discussing an important shift in manufacturing technology: which is more beneficial, additive or subtractive manufacturing. Let's face it - it's a crowded field, full of technologies and applications. Fictiv discusses the future of production in this blog post, and how people are choosing technology for tomorrow’s industry. In today’s maker-climate, each technology has advantages, and implications for your students.
 
Additive Manufacturing
Additive manufacturing is another term for 3D printing, and can use a variety of materials and printers. 3D printing has always been very useful for rapid prototype development, but it is starting to make its impact on the manufacturing world as well. Materials such as PLA and ABS plastics, as well as composite and metal materials improve printing. 3D printing is used as a step in the design process in companies ranging from Nike to Ford. Designers will print a prototype and use a 3D rendering to test and develop and enhance in a way that drawings can’t duplicate. Prints are faster and cheaper to produce than traditional machine tooling. The precise dimensions (often printed in color) provide a realistic model for designers and engineers to manipulate.
 
Subtractive Manufacturing
Subtractive manufacturing is a process by which 3D objects are constructed by successively cutting material away from a solid block of material. Subtractive manufacturing can be done by manually cutting the material but is most typically done with a CNC Machine. One of the advantages of subtractive manufacturing is the variety of materials that can be used, from wood and metal to plastics and acrylics to plasma. (Finer applications such as laser engravers work with an even wider array of materials.) CNC is widely used in manufacturing, and can be found in most facilities.
 
Necessary Skill Set
There is ongoing conversation about which method is more prevalent in the future of manufacturing. In reality, both have a place in 21st century manufacturing, which is why your students should be familiar with both technologies. In order for someone to comfortably use either technology, they need a solid understanding of design and CAD (Computer Aided Drafting) programs, as well as a familiarity with engineering principles so they can understand and develop using the best materials for the project. CNC operators should have a mechanical aptitude, and be able to read blueprints and drawings.
 
Learn More
You can give students hands on experience with both additive manufacturing (3D printing) and subtractive manufacturing (CNC). Moss partners with the following companies to provide cost-effective classroom solutions:​

• Afinia (3D printing)
• Ez Router (CNC)
• FANUC (Robotics and CNC)
• Techno CNC Systems (CNC)
• Universal Laser Systems (Laser cutting and engraving)

Contact Moss to assess which technology is right for your students and your program. We can help you introduce these programs or enhance existing programs with curriculum and tools. Ensure your students are ready for their next steps. 

​When business works with local high school to develop and implement certification programs, the results can have a long term impact on the community:

According to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), the skill gap for entry level workers in advanced manufacturing is growing at a startling rate. With approximately 30% of jobs requiring technical skills and only 17% of graduates having them, you can see how alarming this trend is. High Schools like Doss High School are looking to reverse this trend by offering students the chance to earn stackable credentials that they can take with them to any job:

• Safety
• Maintenance Awareness
• Quality and Continuous Improvement
• Manufacturing Processes and Production

 
These core competencies, taught by Amatrol through the MSSC certification program, helps graduates feel more comfortable and confident in job placements, feel more agile and communicate more effectively. The certifications are stackable credentials recognized by business and industry, and can give students a competitive advantage when applying for manufacturing positions.
 
These programs are specifically designed for High Schools, and can complement core content in science, math, and other areas – which creates a win-win for schools!
 
Learn more: contact an Education Specialist to learn about the certification options available for your high school students. 

Is your school seeking to attract non-traditional students to STEM-related welding and manufacturing technology programs? Are you struggling to direct students to a skilled trades career path? Here’s a report from The Morning Journal about a recent Careers in STEM event at Lorain County Community College for area high school students presented by the college’s chapter of the Society of Women Engineers. The college used a Lincoln Electric VRTEX® virtual reality welding simulator to engage students and let them try their hand at SMAW welding. LEARN MORE. 

Students choose career paths for a variety of reasons. Gender norms are playing less of a factor as students are exposed to technologies (and potential career paths) earlier. What are you doing to encourage students to pursue studies (and careers) in Industrial Technology? We'd love to hear your tips in the comments section!

If you have a FANUC CERT program, you already know the benefits of adding robotics to your training programs. With FANUC America's educational products, students can learn to utilize the latest automation technology in robots, CNC, ROBODRILL, and integrated solutions while applying science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) skills. Some of the successful approaches used by educational institutions are:

• Integration of advanced automation to teach design and manufacturing concepts
• Industry-based and credentialed learning for Career Technical Education programs
• Integrate CERT program with career cluster curriculum
• Apply industrial automation training to engineering technology curriculums
• Add CERT programs to workforce retraining initiatives

 
Are you getting the most out of your robotics program? Maximize your program with one or more of the following tools:

• Integrated Conveyor - FANUC offers a MH1 or MH2 cart integrated conveyer. Using simple I/O commands students simulate real world part inbound and outbound functions. The integrated conveyer uses a dual V-guide belt tracking system. Each V-guide belt measures 3.75" (95mm) wide x 18" (457mm) long. The belt speed is adjustable from 5 to 50 ft./min (1.5 to 15 m/min). Externally mounted speed and directional controls. For further details such as, electrical requirements, limitations, and operating environment please reference manufacturer specifications.
• iRVision 2D Guidance Hardware & Software - Robotic vision provides the intelligence required for successful dynamic manufacturing processes and robust robotic applications. FANUC is committed to providing reliable and cost effective robotic vision solutions. FANUC’s iRVision is the first on-board robotic vision system, making all R-30iB robots “Vision Ready.” This makes for easy installation and calibration of the iRVision 2D Guidance Hardware and software.
• Vision Light Kit for Sony camera, Banner Ring Light w/Bracket: Provides a consistent light source for easier iRVision teaching with consistent results
• Grippers – gripper options include Vacuum Gripper, Pneumatic Grippers, Electric Parallel Servo Grippers. The FANUC Vacuum Gripper EOAT allows students to simulate a pick and place application.
• Remote Surface Mounted FS-15iA Force Sensor - The seamless integration of a six-degrees-of-freedom force sensor results in an intelligent robot that can “feel” enabling the most demanding mechanical assembly and material removal operations.

 
These are just a few of the options available for FANUC CERT training programs. Let us help you customize and enhance your program, while improving student outcomes. Contact Moss today for competitive pricing.