Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Development Forum

Preparing an AI-Ready Manufacturing Workforce: Skills, Pathways, and Partnerships

Advanced manufacturing is changing fast, and the workforce needs to keep pace. This half-day forum brings together local manufacturers, workforce development organizations, and local business partners to explore practical strategies and pathways for building a skilled, AI-ready workforce.

What We'll Cover

• How AI, robotics, and automation are reshaping shop floor skills
• Apprenticeship and credential pathways for entry-level and incumbent workers
• Human-centered approaches to technology adoption
• Energy literacy and financial sustainability for manufacturers
• Emerging roles in smart manufacturing — accessible without a four-year degree
• Partnership strategies to align regional training with real employer needs

Who Should Attend

• Manufacturing employers and operations managers
• Workforce development professionals and apprenticeship sponsors
• Community college and training providers
• Business and industry partners
• Job seekers and workers exploring careers in advanced manufacturing 

Tentative Agenda

Time	Session
9:30 – 10:00 AM	Registration & Networking Breakfast
10:00 – 10:20 AM	Welcome & Forum Framing
10:20 – 10:50 AM	The Changing Skills Landscape in Advanced Manufacturing
11:00 AM – 11:45 AM	Featured Panel: Workforce Pathways for Growth in an AI-Enabled Manufacturing
11:45 AM – 12:15 PM	Networking Lunch
12:15 – 1:00 PM	SPOTLIGHT: Smart Energy & Financial Realities
1:00 – 1:55 PM	Interactive Session: From Skills to Careers, Empowering People in an AI-Driven Industry
1:55 – 2:00 PM	Closing Reflections & Adjourn

Questions? Contact 

Jing Betty Feng, PhD, Professor, School of Business Jing Betty Feng

Marjaneh Issapour MS, P.E., Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology, Marjaneh Issapour

Khosro Shirvani, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Khosro Shirvani

 

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