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Session 2642

On the Initiation and Development of an Advanced Manufacturing Educational Program to Aid Displaced Workers

Paul J. Warner, Rona Colosimo Warner, Kim LaScola Needy University of Pittsburgh, Department of Industrial Engineering

Abstract

This paper presents a model based on classic project management and systems analysis that was created and utilized by the University of Pittsburgh Department of Industrial Engineering Manufacturing Assistance Center (MAC) to develop an accelerated manufacturing training program for displaced workers. The following details the motivation for this initiative, how the curriculum was developed, and the design and implementation tasks. Results of two sessions, including a follow-up on subsequent job placement, are presented. The paper concludes with a discussion of future enhancements to the program and suggestions for extending the model into other types of training.

1. Introduction Renowned management consultant and author, Peter Drucker[4] reported that the cost of higher education has risen as fast as the cost of health care, without any visible improvement in either the content or the quality of education. Thus, the U.S. educational system is being challenged to provide increased educational opportunities without the usual increases in budgets. When institutions of higher learning listen to the customer, i.e., the student, to help direct new strategic initiatives in this area, perhaps the most startling observation that they will make is a marked change in the customer. Traditional college students (age 18-22 and full-time) are slowly being outnumbered by nontraditional college students. Tucker[9] reports that today 40-50% of college students are busy adults, i.e., they are older, wish to attend school part-time, and have limited time due to work and family responsibilities. Schools that have recognized this trend have had success when implementing initiatives such as degree completion programs and continuing education courses aimed at this growing population of nontraditional students.[6]

The University of Pittsburgh’s Manufacturing Assistance Center (MAC) developed and conducted an eight-week 300-hour advanced manufacturing technology educational program aimed at training a focused segment of these nontraditional students - displaced workers - with the skills necessary for an entry level machining position. This paper will describe the motivation for this initiative, how the curriculum was developed based on a regional survey and benchmarking analysis, and how the final course was designed and implemented. Since its development, two sessions with six students each have been conducted. Results of these sessions, including a follow-up on subsequent job placement, will be described. The paper will conclude with a discussion of future enhancements to the program and suggestions for extending the model into other types of training.

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Warner, R. C., & Warner, P. J., & Needy, K. L. (1998, June), On The Initiation And Development Of An Advanced Manufacturing Educational Program To Aid Displaced Workers Paper presented at 1998 Annual Conference, Seattle, Washington. 10.18260/1-2--7322