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Major Milestones for IACMI's Workforce Development Program

IACMI–The Composites Institute is witnessing remarkable growth in its workforce training initiative, America's Cutting Edge (ACE). Since its inception in 2020, the program has expanded tremendously, recently surpassing 20,000 online learners and 5,000 participants in its in-person bootcamp sessions. This surge underscores the increasing interest in and need for skilled labor in the U.S. manufacturing sector.

A Growing Demand for Skilled Workers

The demand for skilled workers in the manufacturing industry has reached a critical point. According to IACMI's Deputy Director of Workforce Development, Justin Brooks, the growth of ACE indicates a strong desire among individuals—including students and career changers—to gain skills that align with the needs of the manufacturing sector. The ACE program has been instrumental in addressing the nation’s pressing labor shortages.

Program Details and Reach

ACE began as a basic online course focused on Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining, jointly developed with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Today, it has evolved to offer 11 online courses available across 43 educational sites nationwide. Participants hail from diverse backgrounds: 49% hold college degrees, 17% are high school graduates, and 23% are current industry professionals seeking to upgrade their skills.

In late 2025, IACMI also launched a national outreach campaign titled 'Make it in America', aimed at raising awareness regarding the career opportunities available in manufacturing. This initiative aims to bolster workforce development through collaborative programs like ACE and the Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship Learning (METAL) project, which focuses on advanced skills in casting and forging.

Celebrating Five Years of ACE

In December 2025, ACE marked its fifth anniversary, reflecting on its achievements and the network it has built. Over 200 academic and industry partners are now involved in the program, providing a robust support system for students and graduates looking to enter or advance in the manufacturing field.

Brooks emphasized the importance of making careers in manufacturing more accessible. With free enrollment for both students and professionals, ACE aims to eliminate barriers and foster inclusivity in the workforce.

Partnering for the Future

The overall commitment of IACMI is to ensure that the U.S. maintains its leadership in advanced manufacturing. Supported by collaborations with the Department of Defense and various industry stakeholders, IACMI continues to drive innovations that enhance manufacturing capabilities. The organization's strategic goals focus on technology development, workforce training, and improving industry competitiveness.

The partnership with the U.S. Department of War's Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment program ensures that ACE is more than just a training initiative; it is a comprehensive tool for economic rejuvenation and a step towards sustained U.S. manufacturing growth.

For individuals and industry professionals who want to learn more about the ACE program or get involved, visit AmericasCuttingEdge.org for information on course offerings and enrollment.

Conclusion

The progress of IACMI's ACE program highlights a growing recognition of the crucial role skilled labor plays in manufacturing. As the need for a well-trained workforce expands, initiatives like ACE and METAL pave the way for a new generation of innovators and skilled professionals ready to shape the future of American manufacturing.