SME PRIME program expands to South Carolina tech center

Key Takeaways

• The SME PRIME program is expanding to Daniel Morgan Technology Center in South Carolina, providing students with real-world training in advanced manufacturing.
• The program offers customized manufacturing and engineering programs, aligning with 45 industry-recognized credentials and certifications.
• SME PRIME operates in 128 schools across 26 states, benefiting 12,000 students, with 91% of seniors pursuing manufacturing careers after graduation.
• The program aims to bridge the gap between education and opportunity, addressing the shortage of skilled manufacturing workers in the US.

Introduction to SME PRIME

The SME PRIME program, operated by the SME Education Foundation, is a philanthropic initiative that provides cutting-edge training in advanced manufacturing to high school students. The program is guided by input from private industry and creates customized manufacturing and engineering programs tailored to meet the needs of local manufacturers.

Program Benefits and Expansion

The SME PRIME program offers essential resources such as equipment, curriculum, teacher training, student scholarships, funding for extracurricular activities, and support for long-term program sustainability. With the expansion to South Carolina, students at Daniel Morgan Technology Center will gain early exposure to the skills and technologies that drive manufacturing, ensuring a strong pipeline of talent ready to support the state's critical industries.

Comparison of SME PRIME with Other Programs

Addressing the Manufacturing Workforce Gap

The US currently has approximately 433,000 unfilled manufacturing jobs, with this number expected to reach nearly 1.9 million by 2034. The SME PRIME program is helping to bridge the gap between education and opportunity, providing students with the skills and training needed to pursue careers in manufacturing.

Conclusion and Future Plans

The SME Education Foundation remains committed to expanding the SME PRIME program, creating pathways for students to excel in the ever-growing field of manufacturing. For more information about SME PRIME, visit the SME Education Foundation website.

Bottom Line

The expansion of the SME PRIME program to South Carolina's Daniel Morgan Technology Center is a significant step towards addressing the shortage of skilled manufacturing workers in the US. With its customized manufacturing and engineering programs, the SME PRIME program is providing students with the skills and training needed to pursue careers in manufacturing, ultimately supporting the growth and development of the industry.