FAME Students Applying Manufacturing Skills While They Work at Regional Manufacturing Companies
QUINCY, IL – As John Wood Community College (JWCC) kicks off its spring semester this week, a group of 10 students is charting a unique educational path as part of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) program. This marks the second semester for Illinois’ inaugural FAME cohort, an innovative program designed to bridge education and industry through hands-on learning and real-world application.
The FAME program at JWCC, known as Great River FAME, allows students to balance work and education to enter the advanced manufacturing career path. Participants spend three days each week gaining on-the-job experience with regional employers and two days training at JWCC’s Workforce Development Center, all while earning credits toward an advanced manufacturing degree.
Employers in the program pay students $21 per hour as they apply what they learn in the classroom directly to their workplace. This “learn and earn” model offers a compelling alternative for students after high school, providing them with the opportunity to gain valuable industry credentials and build a career in advanced manufacturing without incurring significant debt.
“FAME is a win-win for students and employers,” said Dave Hetzler, program coordinator. “Students gain hands-on experience, earn a competitive wage, and enter the workforce ready to make an impact, while companies cultivate skilled employees tailored to their needs.”
Great River FAME employers are actively recruiting for the next cohort of students to join the program in Fall 2025. Applications are due in March, and interested individuals are encouraged to apply at greatriverfame.org.
For more information, visit greatriverfame.org or contact Gavin Ideus at 217.641.4928 or gideus@jwcc.edu.
