The Industrial Training and Education Consortium of the Lehigh Valley (iTEC), an apprenticeship program that will provide industrial skills training, was announced at the Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum on Oct. 3.
iTEC is a nonprofit partnership of industry, education, government, and community organizations that promote careers in advanced manufacturing. It is supported by private and state funding.
“The Lehigh Valley is home to more than 700 manufacturers making everything from medical devices to industrial equipment to food products and nearly everything in between,” Don Cunningham, Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corp. president and CEO, said. “Our manufacturing renaissance is driven by the skilled employees in the region. As we grow, it’s critical to continue that talent pipeline. The iTEC apprenticeship program is a fantastic vehicle to continue the growth of skilled manufacturing in the Lehigh Valley and beyond.”
The first programs being offered are in the mechatronics and industrial manufacturing technician career paths. They are open to anyone 18 or older with a GED or high school diploma who is eligible to work in the United States.
Several Lehigh Valley manufacturers are participating in the iTEC consortium. Manufacturing is the largest contributor to the region’s economy. It employs approximately 38,000 people and generates $8.4 billion annually.