SAN ANTONIO -- Did you know today is Manufacturing Day? In honor of the day, manufacturing companies in our area are hiring and according to them, it couldn't have come at a better time. Innovation Technology and Machining in Schertz told News 4 WOAI that there is a shortage in the manufacturing industry.
To combat the problem, a new pilot program hopes to fill that labor pool gap. "Just In Time" is a new 90 day program that will teach interested applicants the tools of the trade. It launches October 22 with its first 12-week class of 25 students at the new Alamo Colleges Center for Workforce Excellence at Port San Antonio.
Participants will complete the program with a Manufacturing Skill Standards Certificate or National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) certification. Participants must already have a high school diploma or a GED.
"Just In Time" is headed by Alamo Colleges, the San Antonio Manufacturers Association (SAMA), and Workforce Solutions Alamo (WSA). SAMA President and CEO, Rey Chavez, said the public is unaware of the potential opportunities available in manufacturing.
"While the spotlight nationally has been on manufacturing jobs leaving the U.S., there's much less awareness of the many good-paying manufacturing jobs in this country that are going unfilled," Chavez said.
Participants who complete the program will have the opportunity to get entry-level jobs quickly. Companies involved in the program through SAMA have guaranteed job interviews for each graduate of "Just In Time." Also, WSA is providing funding to cover the cost of training for participants.
If you are interested in applying, you are asked to call the Manpower Group at (210) 923 - 4092 or (210) 845 - 5361.
