Manufacturing in the time of COVID

So here we are, one year after the COVID-19 crisis was announced. So many things have changed in people’s lives, and the education process has been a part of that. The Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center was forced to adapt to the world of online instruction in a world of “hands-on” training. Many steps were taken to create new ways of delivering the content needed to be successful in the machining world. Our staff created videos that related to specific projects we weren’t able to complete in the shop. At the end of the semester we were able to graduate students with the education to earn a certificate. Some pieces were missing and we pleaded to the State to allow us to be the first to reopen with on-ground training to fill in the missing hands-on experiences. On June 2nd the State of Connecticut deemed our programs essential because of the need for talented individuals to help meet the demand for the manufacturing of various products needed for personal protection equipment. I’m sure you are all aware of the talk of ventilator production amongst other needs. We ran all summer long bringing back students who wanted more time on the shop floor to polish their skills and gain the confidence they needed to be successful.

So here we are one year later and what has changed? For the Advanced Manufacturing Center, we have maintained on-ground instruction from 8 am to 9:30 pm in both short-term non-credit programs to the full-credit certificate. The only real setback has been the reduction to 50% capacity in all our course. This will remain standard for the time being and appears to be the plan for Fall 2021. This is one more reason for anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in manufacturing to consider registering for classes. I think you’ll find this manufacturing boom is just getting started, with the pause in supply chain production, the floodgates will open all at once. The old adage “supply and demand” will show a shortage of qualified machinists and automation technicians when business resumes. That puts the individuals who have the skills on track to be well-compensated. QVCC has contact with over 150 businesses that will be looking to hire those same individuals.

My recommendation to anyone who hasn’t made a commitment to a career yet, let QVCC get you started. There are some late start classes in March that will allow you to get a head start on the certificate. Manufacturing Math II, Blueprint Reading I and Safety in the Workplace will start the week of March 22nd. There will be limited spots due to our capacity limits, so “the early bird gets the worm!” We will have a virtual information sessions on March 25th to learn more. You can also contact Jodi Clark jclark1@qvcc.edu or Sandy Gould sgould@qvcc.edu for more info on how to get registered.

I’m looking forward to meeting our new prospects ready to pursue a new exciting, fun and well-paying career right here in our community known as “The Quiet Corner”.

Stephen LaPointe
Director
Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center