RTMA, FWD Center Celebrate Fall 2026 Advance 2 Apprenticeship Graduation

Rochester - The Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association (RTMA), in partnership with the Finger Lakes Workforce Development Center (FWD Center) at Monroe Community College (MCC) today proudly celebrated the graduation of eight participants from the Advance 2 Apprenticeship Pre-Apprenticeship program.

Family members, partners, and supporters gathered to recognize the accomplishments of the graduates who successfully completed the intensive five-week, 100-hour training program designed to prepare individuals for careers in advanced manufacturing. Participants earned the nationally recognized Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) credential from Tooling U-SME, OSHA-10 certification, and completed training in workplace readiness, employability skills, and professional development.

"This graduation represents so much more than completing a training program. It celebrates determination, resilience, and the commitment each participant made toward building a brighter future for themselves and their families," said Ruth Thompson, Training and Pre-Apprentice Manager at RTMA. "Over the past five weeks, we watched these individuals challenge themselves, gain valuable technical skills, build confidence, and grow as future manufacturing professionals. We are incredibly proud of everything they have accomplished and excited to see where their journeys take them next. Through the support of our outstanding partners at MCC and the FWD Center, these graduates have taken an important step toward rewarding careers in manufacturing, and we look forward to continuing to support them as they enter the workforce and pursue Registered Apprenticeship opportunities throughout the Finger Lakes region."

The program also works to remove barriers that may prevent individuals from pursuing career training. Participants may receive support for childcare, transportation, equipment, work clothing, steel-toed boots, and up to $1,250 in milestone-based stipends, allowing them to remain focused on achieving their goals.

"This program is a true example of what can be accomplished when education, workforce development, and industry come together with a shared purpose," Thompson added. "Today's graduates are helping to strengthen the future manufacturing workforce in our region, and we celebrate not only what they have achieved, but the opportunities that now lie ahead."

Advance 2 Apprenticeship © Program is supported by the Manufacturers Talent Institute, Empire State Development, New York State Department of Labor, the ESL Charitable Foundation, and RochesterWorks.