The Great River Chapter of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) has extended the application deadline for its next cohort to April 30, 2025. Originally set for March 31, this extension provides additional time for prospective students to apply for the work-and-learn program designed to develop skilled manufacturing professionals in the tri-state area.
Great River FAME is hosted by John Wood Community College (JWCC) in collaboration with regional industry partners and offers students the opportunity to earn an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Advanced Manufacturing while gaining valuable on-the-job experience. The program follows the nationally recognized FAME model, which emphasizes technical training, professional behaviors, and hands-on learning in a real-world setting. Students will earn $21 per hour while training and upon completion of the program may earn approximately $63,000 annually with FAME employers.
Participants in the program work with a sponsoring employer three days a week while completing coursework at JWCC two days a week. Upon graduation, students are well-positioned for high-paying, in-demand jobs in the manufacturing sector.
Applications are available online, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. For more information about the program, eligibility requirements, and employer partnerships, visit www.jwcc.edu/fame or contact admissions@jwcc.edu.
Great River FAME is also expanding the employer base within the area’s chapter. Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) has joined FAME, reinforcing the program’s commitment to building a skilled workforce in the Quincy region. ADM joins founding employer partners DOT Foods, Gardner Denver, General Mills, Knapheide, and Titan Wheel in supporting the initiative, which combines classroom instruction with paid, hands-on training at regional manufacturing facilities.
“With ADM joining FAME, our program continues to grow and provide even more opportunities for students,” said Gavin Ideus, JWCC instructor of advanced manufacturing. “The commitment of our employer partners is essential in developing a strong pipeline of skilled professionals who will support the future of manufacturing in our region.”
“ADM Quincy is excited and proud to join the Great River FAME chapter. We look forward to ensuring our community members have access to a long and meaningful career path in Quincy, by connecting the manufacturing excellence concepts learned at John Wood Community College with real world, hands-on application in our sites,”
The Quincy area is home to more than 100 manufacturing businesses and suppliers, underscoring the industry’s significance to the local economy. As February marks National Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, this expansion of Great River FAME highlights the critical role of CTE programs in preparing individuals for stable, well-paying careers in the skilled trades.
