SLO Partners, a leading provider of apprenticeship programs in California, announced it will pay five local women $500 to gain modern manufacturing skills.
The scholarship program aims to increase local women’s representation in STEM careers and meet local workforce needs. Demand for skilled workers is high for manufacturing companies located on the Central Coast. Businesses based here have continued to experience growth and expand their workforce.
On completion of the seven-week program, locals will qualify for a job in a growing field that offers upward mobility. The part-time training is hands-on and skills are learned through fun activities like building a drone, 3D printing, and wiring a remote control car.
“This is a great opportunity for mothers looking to re-enter the workforce or women who love to build or craft things, and work with their hands,” Senior Director at SLO Partners, Paula Mathias-Fryer said. “This program will put you on a path to attaining a career here on the Central Coast – something we know can be challenging to find.”
All SLO County women and nonbinary individuals are welcome to apply – no prior manufacturing experience is required. Locals interested in up-skilling need to register online, and pay a $99 registration fee to enroll in the June 2023 Modern Manufacturing Bootcamp. Registrants will receive a scholarship check of $500 upon successfully completing the course.
“I enjoyed the opportunity to learn about and work with the equipment I would otherwise not have access to,” a graduate of the Modern Manufacturing bootcamp, Carrie Wentzel said. “The support of the SLO Partners’ staff and the skills I learned gave me access to a rewarding career path.”