NC Federation of Advanced Manufacturing Education's First-in-Flight Chapter holds graduation

May 9, 2026 - 01:32

A new group of graduates has completed a two-year program designed to fill a critical skills gap in modern manufacturing. The NC Federation of Advanced Manufacturing Education, through its First-in-Flight Chapter, recently held a ceremony to honor students who finished the intensive course. The program focuses on meeting the growing demand for skilled technicians by combining classroom instruction with real-world, hands-on training.

Students in the program spend time working directly on factory floors, learning to operate and maintain advanced machinery. This approach gives them practical experience that many employers find lacking in traditional education. The curriculum is built around the specific needs of local manufacturers, ensuring that graduates are ready to step into high-paying jobs immediately after completion.

Officials at the ceremony highlighted how the program helps both students and the local economy. Manufacturers in the region have struggled to find workers with the right technical skills. By producing a steady pipeline of trained talent, the First-in-Flight Chapter aims to strengthen the workforce and keep production competitive. Graduates leave with not just a certificate, but a proven track record of solving problems in a real manufacturing environment. The event marked another step forward for an initiative that continues to grow in response to industry needs.