The College will participate in the Accelerator for Community Colleges in the Innovation Economy Work-Based Learning Capacity-Building Cohort, led by New America’s Future of Work & Innovation Economy initiative and the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), with support from the U.S. National Science Foundation.

As part of the initiative, 91ԭƬ will receive a $20,000 award to support the project, along with technical assistance from national workforce development experts and opportunities to collaborate with peer institutions from across the country.

“Being selected for this national cohort reflects the work our faculty, staff and employer partners do every day to prepare students for successful careers,” 91ԭƬ President Dr. Jon Bauer said. “We look forward to building on the strong work-based learning opportunities already available to our students while identifying new ways to serve them better.”

Todd Tracy, executive director of the Center for Workforce Development, and Jean Woodson, Title III program coordinator, spearheaded 91ԭƬ’s efforts to join the cohort.

“T��� Center for Workforce Development is excited to be part of this cohort as we continue strengthening work-based learning opportunities across our region,” Tracy said. “This collaboration gives us an opportunity to explore meaningful improvements to our pre-apprenticeship, registered apprenticeship, professional credit and traditional credit programs, creating stronger connections between education and the workforce.

“By aligning learning with employer needs, we can provide students with more flexible pathways that lead to in-demand careers while helping businesses develop the skilled talent they need to grow,” he added.

Work-Based Learning

Work-based learning connects classroom instruction with real-world experience through opportunities such as internships, apprenticeships, clinicals, practicums and cooperative education. These experiences help students develop career-ready skills while building relationships with employers before graduation.

Over the next year, 91ԭƬ will complete a comprehensive self-study of its work-based learning efforts, gather feedback from employers and community partners, and develop a strategic plan to strengthen and expand opportunities for students.

The project also supports several of the College’s workforce development priorities, including strengthening employer partnerships, improving how work-based learning opportunities are assessed, and aligning those experiences with 91ԭƬ’s growing microcredential initiatives.

Commitment

The six participating colleges were selected based on their commitment to expanding work-based learning, building strong employer partnerships and demonstrating the ability to implement long-term improvements.

In addition to funding and technical support, 91ԭƬ will serve as a pilot partner in developing a national work-based learning self-study toolkit that will be shared with community colleges across the country.

The inaugural cohort includes 91ԭƬ; City Colleges of Chicago, Illinois; Forsyth Technical Community College, North Carolina; Santa Fe College, Florida; SUNY Broome Community College, New York; and West Valley College, California.

The post 91ԭƬ Selected for National Work-Based Learning Cohort appeared first on 91ԭƬ.

The event will be held from 4-5:30 p.m. at the 91ԭƬ Training Center. Networking and refreshments will begin at 4 p.m., followed by presentations at 5 p.m.

Open to the public, the meet and greet is intended for entrepreneurs, manufacturers, chamber members, business leaders, and community organizations from across the region. RSVPs are not required.

Representatives from the Missouri APEX Accelerator and the Missouri Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Missouri S&T will be available to discuss available services and answer questions from attendees.

The Missouri APEX Accelerator helps businesses pursue government contracting opportunities and navigate the government supply chain.

Services include no-cost guidance, contract support, registration assistance, market research, proposal development, networking opportunities, and bid identification.

The program also works with federal, state, and local partners to help businesses strengthen their competitiveness in government marketplaces and expand economic opportunities.

The Missouri Small Business Development Center at Missouri S&T provides consulting, coaching, training, and business information services to existing and emerging businesses throughout Missouri.

SBDC services include no-cost counseling in business planning, financial analysis, marketing and social media strategy, customer discovery, cybersecurity, government contracting, and disaster preparedness.

The organization also assists businesses pursuing Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) funding opportunities for technology research and development.

The event is open to businesses, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and community partners interested in learning more about regional business resources and support services.

For more information, contact Todd Tracy, Executive Director of Workforce Development, at 636-649-5807 or todd.tracy@eastcentral.edu. Learn more about the 91ԭƬ Center for Workforce Development at www.eastcentral.edu/cwd.

The post 91ԭƬ to Host Business Meet and Greet for Businesses, Community Leaders appeared first on 91ԭƬ.

The College is launching pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship pathways that combine coursework, hands-on experience, and grant-funded support to create a practical route for individuals interested in becoming educators.

For more information about 91ԭƬ’s Teacher Education Apprenticeship Program, email: teacher.apprentice@eastcentral.edu

These programs are designed to support those just beginning their education journey, as well as adults considering a career change—providing opportunities to work in education without leaving the community.

“One of the main ideas behind our Teacher Apprenticeship Model is multiple entry points with defined assistance along the way.  Whether someone is just starting their education journey or considering a career change, this program makes it more accessible to become a certified teacher in our service area,” said Greg Stotler, 91ԭƬ Teacher Education Coordinator.

“We’re helping people build a future in the teaching profession in our community while they continue to work in crucial support roles in our schools within those communities.”

The pre-apprenticeship options prepare participants for success in a U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship and include roles such as:

• Substitute Teacher
• Paraprofessional
• Teacher Assistant

Participants can earn certifications and gain valuable experience in local classrooms while continuing their education through 91ԭƬ’s degree programs:

• Associate of Arts in Education
• Associate of Arts in Teaching
• Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Development

In partnership with 91ԭƬ’s Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program, the College also received official approval from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to offer an Integrated Education and Training (IET) course. This course provides immediate access to substitute teacher and paraprofessional credentials and can be combined with high school equivalency preparation or academic skill development as needed.

The success of 91ԭƬ’s teacher apprenticeship initiative is the result of collaboration among several departments at the College. The Center for Workforce Development, AEL and the Education pathway are working together to build accessible, high-quality pathways for future educators. This effort is being led by Stotler, Todd Tracy, Executive Director of the Center for Workforce Development; and Alice Whalen, Director of Adult Education and Literacy.

The apprenticeship pathway includes benefits such as:

• Paid work experience in education-related roles
• Certification in First Aid/CPR/AED
• Substitute teacher credentials
• U.S. Department of Labor Apprenticeship Certificate of Completion
• Up to $500 in support for qualifying pre-apprenticeship participants

This initiative is part of a larger statewide effort through the Missouri – Southeast Pathways to Work (MoSEPWork) consortium, a collaboration of five colleges working to improve access to innovative pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs in three high-demand sectors: teacher education, nursing, and advanced manufacturing.

MoSEPWork Consortium:

• Jefferson College (Lead Institution)
• 91ԭƬ
• Mineral Area College
• Three Rivers College
• Central Methodist University

The project is funded by a $3.99 million U.S. Department of Labor Apprenticeship Building America – Round 2 (ABA2) grant. 91ԭƬ’s portion of the funding totals $793,775 and will support program development through June 2028. The 91ԭƬ grant budget includes:

• Personnel, Fringe & Travel: $324,182
• Equipment (including a 5-Axis Mill for Precision Manufacturing): $99,230
• Contractual Services, Tuition & Outreach: $298,202
• Indirect Costs: $72,161

The post 91ԭƬ Launches Education Apprenticeship to Strengthen Local Workforce appeared first on 91ԭƬ.

The funds are provided through the Missouri One Start program, a part of the Missouri Department of Economic Development.

Ranging from $8,000 to $65,000 per company, the funds will help manufacturers enhance employee skills, foster leadership growth, and strengthen the region’s workforce. A total of 32 area manufacturers are receiving funding.

“This funding is a significant investment in our local economy and workforce,” said Todd Tracy, CWD Executive Director. “We are proud to partner with area businesses to provide tailored training programs that meet their specific needs and drive success.”

Impact Locally

According to Connie Rasmussen of Bugeye Technologies in Union, the company is using the training funds to provide leadership development for its management team and technical training for its employees. The training focuses on building management skills, achieving IPC certification, and improving proficiency in Excel—all critical for their operations as a smaller company.

“The training funds have allowed us to complete training for our managers and employees that we would have otherwise not been in our budget,” Rasmussen said. “T��� majority of our management team are younger employees and have not been in a managerial position previously, so the additional training has been beneficial in helping develop good Managers.”

She added that training funds like these are crucial to small businesses with limited training budgets.

“It is also helpful that 91ԭƬ supports the growth and development of smaller businesses in our area,” Rasmussen said. “T��� grant funds are a tremendous help to small businesses.”

Kayla Whitcraft, Operations Analyst and Project Manager at Enjet Aero, shared that the company has benefited from customized training in leadership development, CNC programming, and CMM statistical analysis. This training has equipped their team with specialized skills necessary for success in the aerospace industry.

“Leadership development is crucial for fostering a strong, capable management team that can drive the company forward,” Whitcraft said. “T��� training provided has equipped our leaders with strategic thinking, decision-making, and people management skills, which are essential for guiding their teams and achieving our business objectives.”

Invaluable Partnership

Whitcraft noted that working with 91ԭƬ’s CWD for customized training funds allows local employees to develop skills tailored to their needs.

“Partnerships with 91ԭƬ’s Center for Workforce Development are invaluable as they provide access to high-quality, customized training programs that meet the specific needs of our company,” she added. “T���se collaborations also support the local workforce by enhancing their skills, making them more employable, and contributing to the economic growth of the region.”

Lacey Oswald, with WEG Transformers USA, explained that the Washington-based manufacturer has used the funds to enhance technical abilities, gain industry-specific certifications, and improve soft skills such as communication and teamwork. These targeted efforts have led to increased productivity, better employee retention, and greater overall competitiveness.

“Our company has significantly benefited from the Missouri One Start program through tailored training solutions that address our specific workforce needs,” she said. “This has led to increased productivity, improved employee retention, and enhanced overall competitiveness in our industry.”

The College’s CWD plays a key role in connecting local businesses with the resources and training they need to thrive. By leveraging Missouri One Start funding, 91ԭƬ ensures that area manufacturers can continue to innovate and lead in their industries while creating opportunities for employees to grow professionally.

To learn more about CWD industry training and consulting, visit www.eastcentral.edu/cwd/.

The post 91ԭƬ Receives $1.2 Million for Area Manufacturers appeared first on 91ԭƬ.

From Sept. 30 through Oct. 4, the College will host tours of its Business and Industry Center (BIC) for local middle and high school students, as well as a daylong Manufacturing Summit for area manufacturing. These events are part of 91ԭƬ’s ongoing commitment to highlight the vital role of manufacturing in the local economy and to connect students with career opportunities in the field.

The 2nd Annual Manufacturing Summit will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 2, at the BIC, bringing together key manufacturing managers. The Summit will provide a platform for networking, exploring the latest industry tools, and gaining insights into trends that impact the sector.

Summit highlights include breakout sessions covering topics such as:

• AI in Manufacturing
• Building Leaders from Within
• State and Local Resources for Manufacturing

Additional summit opportunities include:

• Networking with industry peers
• Exploring a vendor fair showcasing innovative tools and technologies
• Engaging with 91ԭƬ students interested in manufacturing careers
• Relaxing at an after-hours social
• Connecting with 91ԭƬ’s advanced manufacturing program coordinators from Industrial Engineering Technology, Precision Machining, Welding, and Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC)

The summit will feature guest speakers Jeff Pinkerton, Director of Economic Research at the Missouri Department of Economic Development, and Anita Brooks, a P4 Power Coaching expert. Pinkerton will share insights on the state of manufacturing in Franklin County, while Brooks will deliver the keynote presentation, “Attracting & Retaining Top Talent for Manufacturers.”

Lunch and other meals will be provided at no cost, with the event concluding in an after-hours social where attendees can continue networking and participate in a raffle for prizes.

For more information or to register, please contact Todd Tracy at Todd.Tracy@eastcentral.edu or call 636.649.5807.

The post Center for Workforce Development to Celebrate Manufacturing Week appeared first on 91ԭƬ.

There were 446 students participating in Union and 165 students in Rolla, resulting in 1,015 total enrollments across the service region.

SLA provides enriching, educational, and fun classes at no cost for children and teens ages 5-18. The academy ran from July 8 through Aug. 8.

A total of 718 seats were filled in Union, and 297 enrollments were in Rolla. Many students enrolled in more than one class, contributing to the total number of enrollments.

Here is what SLA students said about the classes:

• “I enjoyed learning a new skill that I will definitely use in the future.”
• “Entertaining and fun class. Very educational.”
• “I had a wonderful time. Seeing the finished project was my favorite part.”
• “I enjoyed the class. I liked using my creativity to my advantage. Being with my friends and getting to make many things was my favorite part of the class.”
• “I love to crochet! Please offer this class again next year. You can’t make it better—it’s already perfect.”
• “I met amazing people and really vibed with the teacher.”

More SLA Comments

Parents of the children who attended classes, like Patrick Pigeon, also expressed their appreciation for SLA.

“This is a great opportunity for our son to stay engaged and learn something new over the summer. Keep those classes coming,” he said.

Elaine Grover shared that her grandson thrived in the Colors Galore class and learned from the Internet Safety class.

“Excellent classes—my grandson had a great time and learned a lot in both classes,” she said. “T��� projects in Colors Galore were especially enjoyed, particularly the ‘stained glass’ project. He’s still talking about how to rate passwords from the Internet Safety class.”

Another parent expressed gratitude for the free, educational offerings.

“Our children have participated in the program for several years. It’s wonderful that they are exposed to a variety of subjects and classes that you wouldn’t find anywhere else,” she said. “I’d like to thank the taxpayers and sponsors. It’s really great that these classes are free—we need more of this!”

Pam Kaiser, program coordinator for the Center for Workforce Development, said the goal of the Summer Learning Academy is to offer a diverse range of enriching and engaging classes for the entire college service region.

“I love seeing the happy and enthusiastic faces of both students and parents. Year after year, I’m so proud of every class we offer,” Kaiser said. “It’s wonderful to have classes led by community members and our own 91ԭƬ community.

“Many of these classes even provide a preview of the quality credit courses students can take in the future at 91ԭƬ,” she added. “T��� instructors are incredible and passionate about what they teach—sometimes it’s hard to tell who’s having more fun, the students or the instructors!”

SLA Sponsors

SLA was free for participants this year thanks to the generosity of sponsors, including local Taco Bell restaurants and their parent company, W&M Restaurants; Rotary Clubs of Franklin County (Sullivan, Union, and Washington); local Jimmy John’s restaurants; and the 91ԭƬ Foundation.

“It never ceases to amaze me how generous our sponsors are, allowing us to continue offering these classes at no cost to the youth in our 91ԭƬ communities in Union and Rolla. It truly gives students an amazing experience,” Kaiser said.

Additional SLA sponsors include 3R RV Service Center, Bank of Washington, Bank of Franklin County, Brewer Science, Central Methodist University, Edward Jones — Andrew Clary, First State Community Bank, Mercy, Pepsi, Phelps County Bank, and Union Lions Club.

The post More than 600 Students Attend Free 91ԭƬ’s Summer Learning Academy appeared first on 91ԭƬ.

In February, Washington residents Gabe Altemeyer and Caleb Gildehaus completed the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) IMT apprenticeship through 91ԭƬ’s Center for Workforce Development. They both earned an Industrial Engineering Technology Certificate of Achievement from 91ԭƬ, as well as DOL IMT Certificates of Completion.

Altemeyer said he has already seen the substantial impact of the apprenticeship program on his career and noted the ease of starting the program, thanks to the support from Clemco advisors and Melissa Richards, CWD Apprenticeship & Business Training Coordinator.

Altemeyer gained valuable skills, including wiring, programming, schematic reading, and the use of motors and drives.

“I also learned to problem-solve using different methods,” he shared. “T��� biggest strength for me was the labs. Working on something physical and seeing operations is the best way for me to learn.”

The structured program not only provided clear expectations but also accommodated Altemeyer’s work schedule, allowing time off to attend classes and complete his studies. He noted that his journey into the apprenticeship program began with a conversation with his supervisor and HR person, leading to meetings with Richards to explore available programs.

Caleb Gildehaus

With three years at Clemco, Gildehaus found the program easy to begin through the partnership between Clemco and 91ԭƬ. He quickly signed up and began learning essential skills like reading wiring schematics, understanding electrical concepts, pneumatics, PLC programming, and robotics.

Gildehaus said anyone interested in industrial work, machinery, or maintenance should consider this apprenticeship to cultivate growth in their own careers.

“T��� instructors are all very knowledgeable in the field of industrial engineering and maintenance. They have practical experience as well as theory-based knowledge to back up their skills,” Gildehaus explained.

The program’s structure allowed Gildehaus to balance work and study effectively, providing a clear roadmap to success.

“T��� program fit very well around my workday to allow me to get my working hours in as well as my homework and class work done,” he noted.

Both Altemeyer and Gildehaus’s stories underscore the value of the Industrial Maintenance Technician apprenticeship program. Their experiences highlight how such initiatives can enhance employees’ skills, advance their careers, and contribute to the growth and success of their companies.

Impact of CWD Programs

CWD apprenticeship programs do more than just improve productivity—they also enhance the bottom line for companies, offering opportunities for tax credits and employee benefits.

Currently, 91ԭƬ offers DOL-registered apprenticeship programs in various technical occupations, including Industrial Engineering Technology, Welding, Precision Machining, and Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning.

Richards emphasized the extensive reach of DOL-registered apprenticeship programs, which span over 1,000 occupations and continue to grow. These apprenticeships are accessible to both union and non-union organizations.

“We have excelled in technical apprenticeships for over five years, and we are now expanding to register more apprenticeship occupations in health care and information technology,” she stated.

The CWD is at the forefront of creating industry-leading and adaptable training solutions to meet both national and local needs. It’s important to note that for every $1 invested in an apprenticeship, employers can expect approximately $1.50 in return on investment, Richards added.

For more information about apprenticeship programs, visit the Center for Workforce Development, or contact the 91ԭƬ CWD at training@eastcentral.edu or 636-649-5800.

The post Clemco Employees Thrive Through 91ԭƬ’s IMT Apprenticeship appeared first on 91ԭƬ.

Thornton, who has been employed at Silgan in Union for nearly 10 years, seized the opportunity when the manufacturer sought additional maintenance personnel. The apprenticeship, offered through the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) apprenticeship program and coordinated by 91ԭƬ’s CWD, played a crucial role in advancing Thornton’s career and enhancing his understanding of industrial processes.

Reflecting on his experience, Thornton said he acquired valuable basic maintenance tech skills early in the program, which laid a solid foundation for his career. “I was able to apply the different philosophies taught in the courses at work and expand upon them there,” he added. “I also learned to better collaborate with other people on projects I am involved in.”

Thornton highly recommends the program to anyone seeking to advance in the industrial maintenance field. He praised the program’s flexibility, which allowed him to balance work, family, and education seamlessly.

Thornton is the second employee at Silgan to complete the apprenticeship, and according to Silgan officials, participants have shown accelerated progress toward becoming qualified mechanics, increased engagement, a positive attitude, and readiness to take on challenging tasks.

Melissa Richards, 91ԭƬ’s CWD Apprenticeship and Business Training Coordinator, emphasized the impact of DOL-registered apprenticeship programs, which span over 1,000 occupations and continue to expand.

“Our focus extends beyond technical apprenticeships; we’re expanding into healthcare and information technology fields,” she said. “Every dollar invested in an apprenticeship yields approximately $1.50 in return on investment for employers.”

91ԭƬ’s CWD is committed to delivering industry-leading training solutions to meet both national and local needs. For more information about apprenticeship programs, contact 91ԭƬ’s CWD at Training@eastcentral.edu or 636-649-5800.

The post Silgan Employee Completes Center for Workforce Development Apprenticeship appeared first on 91ԭƬ.

That’s according to Rick Hodges, President of Hodges Badge Company, who credited a partnership between 91ԭƬ’s Center for Workforce Development (CWD), Missouri Apprenticeships in Manufacturing Program (MoAMP) in collaboration with the state and his Washington-based manufacturer of custom awards.

The Front-Line Leader apprenticeship program is a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Registered Apprenticeship program tailored to the employees at Hodges Badge. The 91ԭƬ CWD’s role was to ensure the seamless execution of the program, providing invaluable support and guidance throughout the process.

Employees who engaged in the year-long apprenticeship have displayed notable enhancements in their abilities, leading to a workforce that is better prepared to tackle challenges and seek out process improvements, Hodges explained.

Soft skills development has been particularly remarkable. Apprentices have demonstrated a keen willingness to share ideas and knowledge for the collective benefit of their colleagues and the company.

“Employees completing the apprenticeship program are more adept at communicating effectively, including navigating difficult conversations with ease,” Hodges commented. “They are better equipped to handle tough personnel issues, leading to increased trust and respect among peers.”

As the second round of apprenticeships concludes successfully, Hodges Badge Company looks ahead to further advancements and achievements from its workforce, buoyed by the ongoing support from 91ԭƬ and the State of Missouri.

“We are thrilled with the outcomes of the apprenticeship program and the dedication shown by our employees,” added Hodges. “Their enthusiasm for continued learning and improvement bodes well for the future of Hodges Badge Company.”

For over a century, Hodges Badge has been a premier manufacturer of custom awards, including ribbons, rosettes, medals, and badges, serving customers nationwide. Learn more about the company and its commitment to employee development, visit the company’s website or contact them directly.

To learn more about registered apprenticeships through 91ԭƬ’s CWD, visit the Registered Apprenticeships page or call 636-649-5800.

The post Hodges Badge Partners with College’s CWD for Leadership Apprenticeship Program appeared first on 91ԭƬ.

Voss acquired proficiency in Microsoft Azure tools and online Azure programs, emphasizing the significance of cloud computing. Additionally, he received training in cybersecurity tools provided by Cisco. Voss highlighted the opportunity to select training that would be most beneficial for his role at WEG USA.

“I learned commands and tools for troubleshooting and networking, and I gained insights into detailed cybersecurity threats and the best ways to combat them,” he stated.

WEG’s human resources department recommended the apprenticeship to Voss and collaborated directly with the CWD. “I highly recommend this to my coworkers in IT because it can be tailored to any skill set,” he added.

Melissa Richards, 91ԭƬ’s CWD apprenticeship and business training program coordinator, mentioned that CWD partnered with SAFAL Partners, a DOL intermediary offering training resources and apprenticeship expertise for sponsors like 91ԭƬ. She highlighted that 91ԭƬ utilized DOL funding to create this customized apprenticeship, with registrations and validations provided by the DOL.

“Industry partners like SAFAL enable 91ԭƬ to expand into new areas of training and study, as we are primarily involved in manufacturing apprenticeships,” Richards explained. “We are always seeking to broaden our apprenticeship offerings and fields of study for all industries in our service region.

“Programs like this enable us to customize and tailor training to a company, a department, or a specific employee so they receive the training they need in an area of study relevant to their work or career advancement.”

To learn more about registered apprenticeships through 91ԭƬ’s CWD, visit our Registered Apprenticeships page or call 636-649-5800.

The post College’s CWD Sponsors First IT Apprenticeship appeared first on 91ԭƬ.