RTMA, MCC & FWD Center Celebrate Graduation of the Spring Real Life Rosies © Pre-Apprenticeship Program
- RTMA Staff
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
Rochester, NY — The Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association (RTMA), in partnership with Monroe Community College (MCC), celebrated the spring graduation of the Real Life Rosies © (RLR) Pre‑Apprenticeship Program at the Finger Lakes Workforce Development Center in Rochester. Eleven students completed the intensive 72‑hour workforce training program designed to prepare individuals for careers in advanced manufacturing and registered apprenticeships. The curriculum included the Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) credential through Tooling U‑SME, OSHA‑10 certification, and hands‑on instruction in workplace readiness and essential professional skills.
Recruitment for this cohort launched during Women’s History Month, reflecting RTMA’s commitment to underscoring the initiative’s focus on engaging women in nontraditional career pathways. Four of the eleven graduates are women, helping address the industry’s need for greater gender representation. Real Life Rosies © also marked a milestone during National Deaf History Month with the graduation of the first deaf “Rosie,” reinforcing RTMA’s dedication to inclusive workforce development.
“Our manufacturing workforce is strongest when it reflects the diversity of our community,” said Ruth Thompson, RTMA’s Pre Apprenticeship & Training Manager. “There is an urgent need to bring more women into the manufacturing pipeline, and I am deeply passionate about creating pathways that elevate individuals from historically underrepresented groups. These ‘Rosies’ demonstrated determination, talent, and grit, and we are proud to support them as they move forward into skilled careers that strengthen our regional economy.”
The Real Life Rosies © program combines career readiness training, hands‑on learning, and guaranteed job interviews with local manufacturing employers. To eliminate barriers to participation, RTMA offers the program at no cost and provides comprehensive support services, including childcare assistance, transportation support, required equipment, work clothing, steel‑toed footwear, and milestone stipends.
Additional Real Life Rosies © cohorts are scheduled for fall 2026. For more information about upcoming cohorts, visit www.rtma.org/real-life-rosies, call 585‑510‑6557, or email RThompson@RTMA.org.
The Real Life Rosies © program is supported by the Manufacturers Association of Central New York, Empire State Development, the ESL Charitable Foundation, and RochesterWorks.
Media Inquiries, contact:
Richard T. Turner
Executive Director
Rochester Technology & Manufacturing Association
(585) 721-6930 - Mobile