Gadsden State Community College’s Sixth FAME Cohort Signs with Industry Partners

Gadsden, AL – On May 6, the sixth cohort of Gadsden State Community College’s FAME Chapter signed with their respective companies during a prestigious signing ceremony held at the Oxford Civic Center. The Federation of Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) is an innovative apprenticeship-style program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on work experience in advanced manufacturing facilities.

“FAME students have the unique opportunity to work and get experience while receiving instruction,” said Alan Smith, dean of Workforce Development at Gadsden State. “Today, you are signing your golden ticket. If you do everything asked of you by the College and by your employer, you will graduate and immediately start a career making a lot of money.”

This year, the program features two distinct classes: FAME South, based at the Ayers Campus, and FAME North, located at the new Advanced Manufacturing Center on the East Broad Campus, which will be officially inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 12.

“We are making history today,” Smith emphasized. “We are one of the only colleges in the U.S. to have two locations for the FAME program. When we asked if we could do this, FAME leadership didn’t hesitate because they recognize our history of success at Gadsden State.”

Out of 166 applicants, 34 students were selected for the new cohort, with an additional four students chosen as alternates in anticipation of future job openings. These students will work for one of 12 industry partners, gaining invaluable on-the-job training while pursuing their education.

“This is one of the biggest nights at Gadsden State,” Smith told the gathered students and their supporters. “It’s time for you all to celebrate. We have many opportunities for these students. I appreciate the commitment you have shown to get your student here today.”

The Gadsden State FAME Chapter is renowned for its excellence, bolstered by its partnership with East AlabamaWorks, an organization dedicated to addressing skill gaps and enhancing workforce development. Lisa Morales, director of East AlabamaWorks, reflected on the program’s growth since its inception in 2018. “I remember when we first started with just 13 students and a handful of people attending signing day,” she said. “Now, we are outgrowing the Oxford Civic Center. I’m so glad to see everyone here. Our industry partners stretch across East Alabama, from Fort Payne to Ashland to everywhere in between.”

Upon completing the program, graduates will receive an Associate in Applied Science in Industrial Automation, a FAME advanced manufacturing technician credential, and five Lean Manufacturing credentials, positioning them for prosperous careers in advanced manufacturing.

“When you finish this program, you will not just have a job,” said Andy Robertson, workforce development coordinator. “You’re going to have a career.”

The following students have been selected to participate in the FAME program and will work with the respective industry partners:

Doncasters