Level 1 Training and Certifications 

Level 1 programs are for individuals looking to enter the manufacturing field with little to no current experience in traditional or digital manufacturing or those who are looking to grow, strengthen or refresh fundamental future-ready skills needed to be competitive in the field. Pre-assessment competency review may be required.

"I told my job about the certificate and showed them everything we learned, and they offered me a full-time position and plan on training me on a large automation machine."

- Ariadna, Manufacturing and Digital Fundamentals certificate program participant

Fill out the form at the bottom of this page to be notified when registration opens.

Manufacturing & Digital Fundamentals Certificate Program

Outcomes:

  • Build awareness of the manufacturing field and related topics to set your foundation
  • Understand fundamental design and manufacturing capabilities
  • Strengthen essential skills critical to every work environment, such as critical thinking, communication, problem solving, ideation, teamwork and more
  • Understand quality principles – planning, assurance, control and improvement 
  • Learn about lean manufacturing and concepts for applying it
  • Apply data analysis and visualization to decision making processes
  • Understand various digital design tools and learn the basics of digital twins in a smart manufacturing environment

Participants can complete all four modules or Module III only. Training is provided through weekly, in-person classes over a period of three months.

Certifications Available:

Completing all four modules will earn a Penn State program certificate and 4.5 CEUs. Completion of individual modules will result in certificates of completion and 1.3 CEUs per module completed. 

Online, interactive assignments each week are powered by Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) ToolingU. These assignments are also a step toward a SME’s Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) program.

FAQs for Individual Registrants:

FAQs for Employers:

Employers interested in enrolling new hires or entry-level employees: View and download our FAQ sheet HERE.

Module Pricing Details

Module Level

Investment
All Modules $2,100 (includes dinner each class)
Individual Module III $795 (includes dinner each class)

Local agencies such as CareerLink are also partnering with us to make workforce training funds available to cover the cost of tuition for eligible participants and organizations. For questions about funding eligibility:

  • Alle-Kiski area residents can call 724-334-8600 for the New Kensington office.
  • Those in other parts of the Westmoreland County region can call 724-836-2600 for the Westmoreland-Fayette office.

Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) Program

Online, interactive and flexible courses, offered through the Digital Foundry at New Kensington and powered by SME ToolingU, help participants progress to a Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) program recognition and receive preparation for in-demand manufacturing careers. Successful completion of the 25 required, one-hour courses and a final certification exam will result in a nationally-recognized certification from the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME).

  • Industry-driven
  • Nationally-recognized
  • Flexible, online format
  • Engaging and interactive
  • Achievable in weeks
  • Preparation for in-demand careers

 

Interested in learning about the next Level 1 certificate program?

Fill out the form below to be notified when registration for the next cohort opens.