Highlights from the first AMP Connections Call

• American Manufacturing Communities Collaborative (AMCC) Executive Director Matt Bogoshian and Operations Director David Van Siclen kicked off our lightening talk series with an overview of the Big 6, their framework for understanding regional manufacturing ecosystems. The Big 6, and the work of AMCC, help regions like the North Valley see their role in the big picture of national efforts surrounding investments in, and programs surrounding, manufacturing growth.

• Additive Manufacturing Programs Expanding - 

• • UC Merced Extension shared their SkillRise program which offers in-demand, free certificates including an additive manufacturing (3D printing) classes online. 
  • FuturePlay Academy coming soon in Lodi - Open Innovation Centers shared about the upcoming offerings of FuturePlay Academy including hands-on training in 3D design, additive manufacturing, and game development, addressing regional workforce needs in clean energy, prototyping, and digital media.

• Regional Investment is Scaling - Merced Union High School District updated us on a CTE manufacturing pathway facilities grant they're pursuing and San Joaquin Partnership updated the group on momentum around Industry 4.0 at the Stockton Airport and Port of Stockton.

• Other updates from participants included a progress report on the City of Lodi Economic Development Strategic Planning Process and information about a fully subsidized computer training program with certificates available on networking, cloud administration, cybersecurity, program management and AI/machine learning through the California Institute of Applied Technology.