Building the Future: Closing the Skills Gap in Manufacturing

In this episode of "Pursuit of Purpose," hosts Robert Martin and Chuck Ollliff are joined by Howard Bailey, the Internship Director for the Federation for the Advancement of Manufacturing Education (FAME) and Director of Education for Industrial Workforce Solutions. Howard shares his mission to close the skills gap in manufacturing by introducing high school students to career paths in the industry. Howard discusses the FAME program, which provides students with hands-on training and education, allowing them to graduate with an associate degree and on-the-job experience, all without student debt. He emphasizes the importance of teaching life skills alongside technical skills, such as problem-solving and efficiency through Lean principles. Listen in to learn more about Howard's inspiring journey from a challenging childhood to becoming an influential educator and how his innovative programs are preparing the next generation of skilled workers in the manufacturing industry.