November 24^th, 2021, Fontana, CA: On November 16, 2021, educators from around the Inland Empire came together for a technology and robotics presentation at Garner Holt Education through Imagination in Redlands, CA. Festo Didactic showcased their training equipment, robotics machines, and shared the complete training programs they have developed for students. Attendees were welcomed by Pat Uetz, Business Development Manager of Advanced Technology Consultants, Molly Burgess, Executive Director of the Manufacturers Council of the Inland Empire, and Bill Tynan of Education Through Imagination.

The event was Co-Hosted by the Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire (MCIE) and Garner Holt Education through Imagination. Wally Brithinee, Executive Board member of MCIE, was excited for the council to co-host the event because of the many opportunities FESTO and Advanced Technology Consultants offered. The training programs are unique because “they make skilled and recognizable students in high-demand fields, allowing students to finish the courses fully certified in the metal working industry in the US,” Brithinee said. “Their seminar included robotics and mechatronics demonstrations, as well as showcasing the training equipment available to students, which is invaluable to manufacturers.”

Advanced Technology Consultants have worked with Festo Didactic, a German-based manufacturing company, for over ten years. “We try to host a workshop every year to showcase our equipment and curriculum to schools,” said Uetz. “Schools get to learn about the latest and greatest in technology, which helps them prepare students for careers.” The seminar also presented educators with valuable information regarding certifications and training requirements, so students have clear pathways into the manufacturing workforce.

Community colleges in the area were represented as well, including San Bernardino Community College District, Fullerton College, Chaffey College, and California Baptist University. Educators from Indian Springs and Granite Hills High Schools also came in hopes of expanding their already flourishing manufacturing pipeline programs. These educators have programs that encourage and prepare students to enter the manufacturing workforce.

The Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire (MCIE), the voice of regional manufacturers, supports education and workforce training on behalf of manufacturers throughout the region, offering expertise in a variety of topics including innovative workforce solutions. The council hosted regularly monthly meetings during 2020 and plans to resume in the new year. For information on monthly events, visit MFGCouncilie.com/events. Resources and problem-solving strategies, that are provided through MCIE membership, generate positive economic impacts to employers, employees, students (from grade school through college), and the community at large. To learn more about becoming a member of the Manufacturers’ Council or to learn about the benefits, visit MFGCouncilie.com/membership .