How Our Partnership with FAME Is Helping Open Doors for Alabama Students

As Alabama’s manufacturing industry continues to evolve, new career opportunities are emerging across the state. The Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) is a nationally recognized work-based learning program that prepares students for careers in advanced manufacturing and technical fields. It plays an important role in preparing students to meet workforce needs across the state.

Managed by The Manufacturing Institute, the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, FAME combines classroom instruction with paid, hands-on experience at participating companies. Students attend classes two days a week through Alabama’s community college system and work onsite three days a week with employer partners, including Alabama Power. The program spans five semesters and gives students two years of real-world experience before graduation.

Students begin working the summer before classes start and are paid for 24 hours each week while completing the program. The model mirrors a full-time workweek and helps students connect what they learn in school to real job responsibilities.

“FAME is different because students are learning in the classroom while also being immersed in the company culture from day one,” said Audrey Webb, regional workforce director and director of work-based learning programs for the Alabama Community College System. “By the time classes begin, they already know the company, understand expectations and are building professional habits that will serve them throughout their careers.”

FAME also emphasizes professional behaviors, safety and leadership development. Students participate in daily safety circles and checks and present safety projects to company sponsors each semester. Scholarships and financial aid are available, and many students graduate with little to no debt.

Alabama now has 12 FAME chapters across the state, including FAME on the Coast at Bishop State Community College and Magic City FAME at Jefferson State Community College. Alabama Power played a key role in helping establish both chapters.

“Industry leaders tell us what skills they need, and we build training around those needs so students are prepared for the jobs companies have today,” Webb said.

“We are proud to be a partner with FAME and an integral part of the FAME on the Coast and Magic City FAME chapters,” said Jason Watters, workforce development manager at Alabama Power. “We see the need, see the results, and see the impact a career can have on a family and a community.”

Since launching in Alabama in 2014, the program has expanded rapidly. Today, more than 370 students are enrolled statewide.