Community Backs EDC Manufacturing Certification Program

Over 125 have completed training for a career in manufacturing.

Space Coast, FL (January 26, 2018) – Manufacturing matters – and the Space Coast community is noticing. Since July 2016 the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast (EDC) and Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) have partnered to fuel the next generation of Brevard’s manufacturing workforce. And since that time, local organizations have rallied to support this initiative. The results – 125, and counting, individuals have completed training for a career in manufacturing though the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC) Certified Production Technician (CPT) Certification program.

The most recent course began on January 22, with the Cities of Palm Bay and Titusville, the Rotary Club of Indialantic, and the ZONTA Club of Melbourne provided full scholarships for members of the incoming class of 27 new students, who are making a commitment to not only their future, but the future of Space Coast manufacturing.

“The CPT credential is an incredible tool for jump-starting a career in the growing field of manufacturing, “said Lynda Weatherman, president and CEO of the EDC. “Not only are the students benefiting from this industry renowned course, but the entire community is understanding the importance of fueling the next generation of our manufacturing workforce, especially as over 3,000 new jobs are expected locally by 2022.”

Since the inception of this course the results have proven successful, with an 80% job-placement success rate within the manufacturing field for certified students.

Contributing partners from the local community have included: Brevard Public Schools Adult Education, Bright House Networks, CareerSource Brevard, Eastern Florida State College, Florida Bank of Commerce, Florida City Gas, Florida High Tech Corridor Council, Junior Achievement, Masonic Beach Lodge No. 354 F&AM, the City of Palm Bay, the Pastors Community Alliance, the Rotary Club of Indialantic, the Space Coast Human Resources Association, the City of Titusville, Wells Fargo Advisors, Women in Defense, and Zonta.

The next 10-week course will begin April 10.

To learn more about the CPT Course, or to receive information about scholarship opportunities for the April class, visit www.ManufacturingInBrevard.org/CPT

Pictured: EDC CPT Program Assistant Susan Harwood introduces the January 22 CPT Class participants to the MSSC CPT Course during orientation on January 18, 2018 at EFSC.

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About the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast
The Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast (EDC) is dedicated to attracting new business and investment and expanding existing industry throughout the Space Coast, influencing change on government laws and regulations affecting economic development, promoting the Space Coast to encourage new investment, supporting efforts of Space Coast military installations, and relaying new programs and procedures to assist manufacturing and high-tech companies. The EDC is a private, not-for-profit coalition whose stakeholders are business leaders committed to the economic growth and stability of Florida’s Space Coast. Visit www.SpaceCoastEDC.org

About the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC) Certified Production Technician (CPT) Course
The Certified Production Technician (CPT) certification process focuses on the core technical competencies of the entry-level production worker and is applicable in all sectors of manufacturing. This course prepares the student to sit for the four Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC) Production Technician certification assessments: Safety; Quality Practices & Measurement; Manufacturing Processes & Production; and Maintenance Awareness.