Fresno, CA – October 30 – The San Joaquin Valley Manufacturing Alliance’s 9th annual Valley
Made Summit was a tremendous success, drawing in over 900 manufacturing industry attendees,
including prominent leaders from the manufacturing industry, local government officials, and
educators. The event highlighted the thriving manufacturing sector in the Central Valley and its
vital role in the regional economy. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions on
industry trends, workforce development, and the future of manufacturing.
During the luncheon program, the San Joaquin Valley Manufacturing Alliance was proud to
announce the launch of the Central Valley FAME Chapter, marking the first FAME chapter in the
state of California and west of the Rockies. Located in the heart of the Central Valley, this new
chapter aims to address the skills gap in the manufacturing industry and provide high-quality
training and career opportunities for local residents.

FAME, the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education, is a nationally recognized program
operated by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) Manufacturing Institute. This
initiative combines technical training, work-based learning, and strong industry partnerships to
develop skilled manufacturing technicians who are ready to meet the needs of a modern
workforce.

“The Central Valley FAME Chapter is an exciting milestone for the manufacturing community in
California. Through this partnership, we are bringing a proven model of advanced manufacturing
education to a region that plays a critical role in the nation’s manufacturing economy. We are
thrilled to see how this initiative will shape the next generation of highly skilled workers, providing
them with the tools they need to thrive in this evolving industry. FAME served as a model for the
Economic Development Administration’s Good Jobs Challenge, so it is fitting that this region’s
Good Jobs partners have achieved such a momentous accomplishment,” said Gardner Carrick,
Chief Program Officer, The Manufacturing Institute.

The launch of the Central Valley FAME Chapter is part of a broader regional strategy aimed at
addressing workforce development challenges. SJVMA plays a vital role as the Central Valley Hub
for workforce and training programs in manufacturing. As the central coordinator of this initiative,
SJVMA serves as the nexus for collaboration between local manufacturers, educational
institutions, and community partners. The alliance not only promotes innovation and industry
growth but also works to strengthen the talent pipeline that will drive future success in the
manufacturing sector.

Will Oliver, President and CEO of Fresno County Economic Development Corporation (Fresno
County EDC) highlighted the broad impacts collaboration has achieved in the region in recent
years. “The creation of California’s first FAME Chapter, joining 40 other Chapters in the U.S.,
shows our commitment to addressing economic and workforce needs across a continuum of
training that begins with short-term, entry-level programs leading to high-quality jobs with
partnering employers and continued advancement through a mix of additional education and
on-the-job experience.”

Fresno County EDC plays a pivotal role as the Good Jobs Challenge system lead across multiple
industry sectors. As part of the Good Jobs Challenge, Fresno County EDC received funding to
spearhead job training programs that lead to good-paying jobs. This funding will significantly
bolster the Central Valley FAME Chapter’s efforts to create equitable and accessible career
pathways for individuals, particularly those from underserved communities, by providing
industry-aligned training and certification programs.

“The launch of the Central Valley FAME Chapter is a valuable addition to our region’s workforce
initiatives, supporting SCCCD’s commitment to building career pathways and addressing real
workforce needs,” said Dr. Carole Goldsmith, Chancellor, State Center Community College
District. “In partnership with the Good Jobs 4 The Central Valley initiative, Fresno EDC, and the
San Joaquin Valley Manufacturing Alliance, this program provides hands-on, industry-aligned
training that not only prepares our students for critical roles in the local economy but also
strengthens Central Valley industries. This collaboration represents a powerful step toward
high-quality job opportunities for our diverse community and drives economic growth in the
region.”

The Central Valley FAME Chapter will collaborate with local manufacturers, educational
institutions, and community partners to ensure the program’s success. Through internships,
apprenticeships, and industry certifications, participants will gain valuable hands-on experience
and develop the skills necessary for a rewarding career in manufacturing.
The launch of the Central Valley FAME Chapter marks a transformative moment for the region’s
manufacturing industry, bringing together key educational institutions and industry leaders to
address the growing demand for skilled workers.

“As a leader in advanced manufacturing, Trillium Flow Technologies is excited to support the
launch of the Central Valley FAME Chapter. This initiative is key to addressing the growing
demand for highly trained workers in the industry,” said Stephen Avila, Plant Manager Trillium
Flow Technologies and Central Valley FAME Chapter President. “By working directly with
students and educators, we can ensure that the next wave of manufacturing talent is equipped
with the skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation and success.”

For more information about the Central Valley FAME Chapter and enrollment opportunities,
please visit fame-usa.com/fame-program-locations/california-fame/central-valley-chapter/.

VISUALS
Click HERE to see video clips and photos of FAME being announced during the 9th annual
SJVMA Valley Made Summit.

ABOUT SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY MANUFACTURING ALLIANCE
The San Joaquin Valley Manufacturing Alliance (SJVMA) is a pivotal organization dedicated to
advancing the manufacturing industry within California’s San Joaquin Valley. Founded with a
mission to foster innovation, enhance workforce development, and promote economic growth,
SJVMA serves as a dynamic platform for manufacturers, industry partners, and educational
institutions to collaborate and drive the region’s manufacturing sector forward.

Through strategic initiatives, networking events, and comprehensive training programs, SJVMA
addresses the unique challenges faced by manufacturers in the region. The Alliance is
committed to equipping the local workforce with cutting-edge skills, advocating for policy
changes that benefit the manufacturing community, and supporting technological advancements
to ensure competitive edge in a global market.

SJVMA’s membership includes a diverse array of manufacturers from various sectors, reflecting
the rich industrial landscape of the San Joaquin Valley. By providing resources, facilitating
partnerships, and fostering a collaborative environment, SJVMA is instrumental in shaping the
future of manufacturing in the region, ensuring its members thrive and contribute to the
sustainable economic prosperity of the Valley. To learn more, visit www.sjvma.org.

ABOUT FAME
The Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) program is a national initiative
designed to develop the next generation of highly skilled manufacturing talent. It provides
global-best workforce development through strong technical training, integration of
manufacturing core competencies, intensive professional practices and intentional hands-on
experience to build the future of the modern manufacturing industry.

FAME combines classroom education with hands-on, work-based learning, allowing students to
earn a degree while gaining real-world experience in advanced manufacturing. Its mission is to
build a pipeline of globally competitive workers by equipping students with technical expertise,
problem-solving skills, and professional behaviors. The Central Valley Chapter has been
founded by key local employers and key community partners. Over time, this program is
designed to create a pipeline of highly trained individuals who can transition to full-time
employment upon graduation. For participating companies, this program is critical to fill the skills
gaps in advanced manufacturing operations.

With over 40 chapters across the U.S., FAME has had a significant impact on workforce
development, producing graduates who are in high demand by leading manufacturers and
helping to strengthen the nation’s manufacturing sector.

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Posted in Central Valley