Careers in Manufacturing

EXPANDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG ADULTS WITH AUTISM AND OTHER DISABILITIES 

Our manufacturing training-to-career pilot programs prepare autistic young people to launch their careers in the advanced manufacturing industry.

These programs are launching in 2024, in partnership with Community Integrated Services and thanks to a significant investment from the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). This is a pilot program and is currently not accepting applicants. 

Participants enroll in one of two tracks that are adapted to maximize inclusion for jobseekers with disabilities, with courses offered at the Community College of Philadelphia (CCP) and Drexel University. Following program completion, participants will receive intensive support to find and retain jobs with our employer partners in the manufacturing industry.  

“The Shapiro Administration is proud to support the program as they expand our manufacturing workforce and create real opportunity for our residents with disabilities who are looking for good jobs,” said Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger. “The program will benefit both the industry and the community by creating a more inclusive and productive workforce that can meet the current and future needs of the region.” 

Program graduates will be prepared for, and connected to, jobs in the manufacturing industry including CNC Machine tool programmers, CNC machine operators, machinists, metal and plastic model makers, lathe and turning machine operator, inventory control specialist, laser technician, inspector, and much more. These programs are optimized for neurodivergent learners.

Our programs offer two tracks:

Manufacturing Accelerator Program Drexel University

CNC Machinist Certification Program Community College of Philadelphia

Manufacturing Career Accelerator Program (MCAP) is a 6-week bootcamp provided by the Goodwin College for Professional Studies at Drexel University. MCAP is designed to help participants become their professional best while learning about the manufacturing industry and preparing to begin a rewarding career in a dynamic industry. 

CNC Machinist Certification is provided by the Community College of Philadelphia Career and Advanced Technology Center. This course combines classroom and hands-on training that provides students with the fundamental precision machining and production skills necessary to compete for an entry-level position in a working machine shop environment. 

Depending on program track, graduates can obtain several industry-accredited credentials that will enable them to find, retain, and advance their careers:

  • National Instityte for Metalworking Skill (NIMS) credentials
  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA 10)
  • Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt
  • Tooling U-SME Training Program/Certificates or equivalent

This initiative is a collaboration between Community Integrated Services, the Goodwin College of Professional Studies, the School District of Philadelphia, Uniquely Abled Academy, and the Community College of Philadelphia. This program is funded in part by the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development’s Manufacturing Training to Career Grant program and by HAAPE.