REDO offers free manufacturing training to develop skilled talent

The Regional Economic Development Organization (REDO), Sturbridge, Mass., has announced the availability of free manufacturing training for qualified individuals aged 18 and older residing in southern Worcester County, Mass., who are interested in acquiring entry-level skills and credentials that area employers are actively seeking.

Four orientation sessions for individuals interested in learning more are scheduled to take place at Workforce Central in Southbridge, Mass. They will be held on Wednesday, May 28, at 10:00 a.m.; Friday, May 30, at 2:00 p.m.; Tuesday, June 3, at 2:00 p.m.; and Friday, June 6, at 10:00 a.m.

"In Massachusetts alone, there are currently 9,000 manufacturing job openings, and career opportunities in this field are expected to increase exponentially over the next decade. With starting wages in the $10 to $14/hr. range, manufacturing represents a competitive, stable, and attractive industry," said Alexandra McNitt, executive director of The Chamber of Central Mass South.

Qualified applicants will have the opportunity to participate in a weeklong manufacturing training boot camp to be held June 23-27, 2014, in Sturbridge, where they will learn shop math, blueprint reading, metrology, workplace safety, and work readiness.

Interested, qualified applicants should register for orientations here or contact Alexandra McNitt at alexandra_mcnitt@cmschamber.org or 508-347-2761.