What's Happening?
Lockheed Martin's Manufacturing Basic Skills (MBS) pre-apprenticeship program has been honored by the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship as a Regional Work-Based Learning Best Practice. This recognition
highlights the program's success in preparing students for high-tech careers in aerospace manufacturing at Lockheed Martin's missile assembly campus in Courtland, Alabama. The MBS program serves as a precursor to the Advanced Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship Program (AMTAP), which equips participants with specialized skills in space electronics, including cable harness assembly and soldering. Since its inception, the program has established partnerships with local educational institutions, reaching over 36,000 students and providing full-time employment opportunities to more than 150 graduates.
Why It's Important?
The recognition of Lockheed Martin's training program underscores the importance of aligning education with industry needs to foster workforce development. By providing technical training and career pathways, the program contributes to the growth of a skilled workforce in the aerospace sector, which is crucial for supporting space and defense missions. The success of the program demonstrates the potential for similar initiatives to enhance employment opportunities and economic growth in other regions. With apprenticeship programs on the rise nationally, Lockheed Martin's efforts serve as a model for effective collaboration between education and industry.
What's Next?
Lockheed Martin plans to continue expanding its apprenticeship programs, with ongoing recruitment for new cohorts. The company aims to strengthen its partnerships with educational institutions and increase the number of students participating in the program. As the demand for skilled workers in aerospace manufacturing grows, Lockheed Martin's initiatives are expected to play a significant role in meeting industry needs and supporting economic development in Alabama.
