SCMC is Answer to Skills Gap

Since 2013, 126 individuals have enrolled in South Carolina Manufacturing Certification (SCMC), a training program that has been called an answer to the serious workforce skills gap that has left businesses and industries without a pipeline of the skilled workers needed in today’s rapidly changing economy. “Mid-level industry jobs are out there, but there aren’t enough qualified applicants to fill them,” said Corporate and Community Education Division Program Manager Richard Parker, adding that 65% of the jobs in our area require above a high school diploma up to and including an associate degree. Parker’s comments came at a breakfast meeting to congratulate SCMC graduates and to give business and industry partners information about the training program. SCMC is a quick, yet comprehensive training route for individuals seeking to enhance their skills and to secure full-time employment as operators in manufacturing. Classes are offered and taught though Tri-County’s Corporate and Community Education Division. The SCMC training is a 200-hour curriculum that includes the opportunity to earn eight nationally recognized certifications. Topics include industrial safety, quality, blueprints and measurement, production processes and some basic understanding of industrial equipment and maintenance. Participants may earn an OSHA 10-hour safety card, a Six Sigma yellow belt certification and a national MSSC credential in safety, quality, production systems and maintenance awareness, which translates into stackable credentials for college credit. Since 2013, approximately 80% of Tri-County’s SCMC graduates are employed at an average per hour wage of $12.73. Koyo Bearings, Kroger Bakery, Yokohama, Robert Bosch, U.S. Engine Valve, Plastic Omnium, St. Jude Medical, Michelin, Greenfield Industries and others, employ them. “We are thankful to manufacturers who interview and hire graduates of this program,” said Parker.