Manufacturing Training and Development
Aligning Talent With Industry Demand
Manufacturing Training & Development supports advanced manufacturing by preparing a skilled workforce for hands-on, in-demand careers. We work with industry, educators, and communities to deliver practical training that meets real workforce needs, strengthens regional economies, and supports long-term competitiveness.
ACE – America’s Cutting Edge
America’s Cutting Edge (ACE) is a national initiative to restore the prominence of the U.S. machine tools sector. Through ACE, participants can receive online instruction and then complete hands-on, in-person training that supports a new career path — or advancement — in the machine tool industry for free. No prior experience or education in the field is required to enroll in the ACE computer numerical control (CNC) machining training program
ACE is supported by the DOD Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment Program from the Office of Industrial Policy. The DOD is using the scientific expertise of the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the workforce development leadership of the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation (IACMI) and the capabilities and resources of TEES.
Online Courses (ACE)
These no-cost, self-paced, CNC Machining courses cover topics including introductions to machining, machining dynamics and machine cost, in addition to CAM instruction and using the CAM+ app. Registration is required. ACE offers two learning pathways: Fusion 360 and Mastercam.
Register for ACE Mastercam Pathway Training
Register for ACE Fusion 360 Pathway Training
In-person Bootcamps (ACE)
Once you’ve completed an online training pathway and choose to continue with in-person, instructor-led training, ACE bootcamps, completed in just five days, cover topics ranging from instruction for CAM, parameter selection, part setup and probing, and controller use. Students will machine components for an oscillating piston air engine and assemble. Registration is required.
ACE Locations
Bootcamps are offered in partnership with the following regional academic institutions and spoke locations:
Project MFG
Shaping the Next Generation of Tradespeople
Project MFG shines a light on the need and opportunities for skilled trades by focusing on the development of new talent to provide a path forward for individuals and our country. Project MFG competitions throughout the United States promote the trades across industries and help advance the next generation of highly skilled trade professionals. As an integrated workforce development and recruitment effort, Project MFG collaborates across communities, the private sector and government to expand the U.S. industrial base workforce.
Texas Defense Aerospace Manufacturing Community
Smart Skills for Manufacturing
The Texas Defense Aerospace Manufacturing Community (TDAMC) is galvanizing a smart manufacturing ecosystem for defense aerospace manufacturing in Texas by injecting smart manufacturing skills and technologies into the state to accelerate the growth of a strong, resilient, responsive and competitive supply chain. TDAMC aims to meet the current and future needs of the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD), including industrial surge production capability requirements.