An Education with Experience

A new program called FAME puts students on a manufacturing career trajectory. Just two years out of high and earning $60,000 a year.

Ian Sykes has wanted to pursue a career in mechanical engineering for as long as he can remember. Growing up and attending school in Pasadena, Md., Sykes excelled in math and science classes.

When it was time to decide where to pursue a higher education, Sykes chose Richard Bland College. For the spring 2021 semester, RBC launched the Virginia Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (VA FAME) program, which allows students to earn their associates degree over two years while immersing themselves in paid on-the-job training.

“My dad told me about it,” recalled the 19-year-old. “He sells 3D printers to colleges and learned about FAME at Richard Bland. The coursework hasn’t been super challenging, and I like being able to be on my own for the first time, especially after COVID. I like Virginia. It’s a nice place, and I like the campus.”

Two days each week, VA FAME students attend classes at RBC and the Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CCAM), a nonprofit applied research center founded in 2011 that includes industry, university and government representatives.

For 24 hours during the week, students work for a local company to gain technical skills while earning $15-17 an hour. VA FAME’s nine industry partners include AMPAC Fine Chemicals, Amsted Rail, BluePrint Automation (BPA), Civica, Coesia, EPT Connectors, Niagara, Phlow and Sabra.

“They’re getting the academic side and the work experience. It’s a huge selling point,” said Thomas Midgette, the VA FAME program director at RBC. “They’re learning how to maintain the equipment with little to no student loan debt and a career trajectory. There’s upward movement for you in those positions.”

If RBC’s program falls in line with those in more than a dozen other states, Midgette projected 85-90% of enrolled students will accept a full-time job offer from their initial sponsor company upon graduation. The average salary in the region for the entry-level technician roles is $50-60,000.

“The pay after school is incredible,” said Sykes. “It’s a great opportunity. You don’t have to do four years and can make $60,000 to start without student debt.”

Sykes, who is one of seven students currently enrolled in VA FAME, also appreciates the support RBC offers with small class sizes and regular contact with faculty and staff.

“Mr. Midgette is a great guy,” Sykes noted. “He is very interested in us. I have some anxiety issues, and he was able to help me through some of it.”

After completing VA FAME at RBC, Sykes plans to work toward a mechanical engineering degree through a tuition reimbursement program at his current manufacturing company. He encourages anyone who is interested in mechanical engineering to consider enrolling.

“Someone who is willing to learn, willing to work and is coachable and ready to be a part of the team,” Midgette listed traits of VA FAME candidates. “In addition to soft skills with a strong math base, those with any kind of [Career and Technical Education] courses, classes with electrical, engineering, mechatronics.”

With more awareness of VA Fame, Midgette expects a boost in enrollment. Graduates will then help to create a larger talent pool for companies needing to fill advanced manufacturing technician positions.

“I sure hope so,” Sykes said. “It’s a great program.”