Launching a Dual Enrollment Manufacturing Course

By Cara Pattison
Program Manager, MI-WPC

Community colleges have a unique opportunity to support workforce development by offering dual enrollment manufacturing courses that provide high school students with both college credit and the Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMFgA) certification. This nationally recognized certification equips students with essential manufacturing skills such as safety, quality practices, and maintenance awareness, making them job-ready upon graduation. By integrating CMFgA into a dual credit course, students not only earn academic credits but also obtain a certification that significantly enhances their employability in the manufacturing sector.

For colleges participating in the SME Manufacturing Imperative Workforce Pipeline Challenge, the benefits go even further. These institutions can utilize the Tooling-U SME curriculum, enabling them to deliver high-quality, industry-aligned education. This access ensures that students receive the latest, most relevant training available, preparing them to meet the demands of today’s manufacturing workforce.

To successfully launch this program, colleges must focus on building partnerships with local high schools and employers. Collaboration with high schools ensures the course fits into students’ schedules and aligns with graduation requirements, while engaging employers ensures that the curriculum reflects industry needs. This collaboration is essential for creating a seamless pathway from high school to college, and eventually, into the workforce.

Several organizations offer critical resources and guidance to help colleges design and expand their dual enrollment programs. For example, the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP) provides best practices, accreditation guidelines, and professional development to ensure high standards in dual enrollment programs. Meanwhile, the Community College Research Center (CCRC) and Jobs for the Future (JFF) offer valuable insights into program effectiveness and strategies for improving student transitions from high school to college, especially for underserved populations.

Involving local manufacturers is key to strengthening the program and giving students real-world experience. Employers can offer internships, job shadowing, or mentorship opportunities, providing students with hands-on exposure to manufacturing environments. This not only enhances students' learning but also helps build a strong local talent pipeline that addresses workforce gaps in the community.

By implementing a dual manufacturing course with a certification, community colleges can provide students with a direct pathway to high-demand jobs while fostering stronger industry connections. With access to quality curriculum and strong partnerships, this program can become a powerful tool for colleges to build a skilled, certified workforce and open doors to successful manufacturing careers for students.