Manufacturing Camp grants available from FMA Foundation

Fifteen to 20 grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 each will be awarded by the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association Foundation (FMA Foundation) to not-for-profit organizations and educational institutions. Groups applying for the grants must be able to conduct a quality overnight or day camp experience that will introduce young people ages 12 to 16 to metal forming careers in manufacturing. Collaborations between educational institutions and camp organizations are encouraged.

A demographic shift in the U.S. work force caused by retiring baby boomers is taking place, and the manufacturing sector is already feeling the impact. While improvements in technology have increased efficiency rates and reduced the amount of unskilled labor needed, there is an ever-increasing demand for highly skilled professionals such as engineers who can design, program, and operate technology being employed. The purpose of Manufacturing Camp grants is to provide a positive, hands-on experience so young people will consider manufacturing as a future career option.

Grant funds may be used for the expenses related to curriculum development and instruction, as well as direct expenses such as housing, meals, transportation, and supplies. Expenses related to the purchase of software or other capital expenditures do not qualify.

The application deadline is Dec. 15, 2006. Applications and additional information are available online at the Foundation's Web site.

Listen to a podcast that discusses manufacturing campsfeaturing FMA Foundation Director Terry Egan. Click "Listen now" in the green bar at the top of the page to play the podcast.