CCAM signs MOU with Richard Bland College to establish an Advanced Manufacturing Academy

Richard Bland College of William & Mary (RBC) and the Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CCAM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly establish an Advanced Manufacturing Academy.

The Academy will train students pursuing careers in the high-demand fields of Robotics and Automation. Programming will complement the Commonwealth of Virginia’s tech talent pipeline by preparing graduates for high-paying technology-related jobs in fields that align with traded-sector growth opportunities.

“The partnership between Richard Bland College and Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing is a forward-focused initiative that addresses workforce and economic needs throughout our region and the Commonwealth,” says Richard Bland College President Debbie Sydow. “This is a new pathway for students to earn certificates and degrees that lead to high-paying jobs.”

“We are confident that our partnership with Richard Bland College will create an Advanced Manufacturing Academy that Central Virginia needs not just for today but for the future of the Advanced Manufacturing industry as a whole,” says CCAM President and CEO William T. Powers.

Students will gain access to cutting-edge, industry-driven curricula, which will collectively enhance the advanced manufacturing ecosystem. This innovative experiential learning program allows students to gain credentials and training in high-tech occupations through an earn-while-you-learn model that combines structured classroom and virtual instruction. Program development will offer stackable credentials from dual enrollment to industry certificates, career studies certification, associate degrees, and partnerships with 4-year universities for advanced degrees.

The curriculum incorporates apprenticeships, internships, job shadowing, and courses that will bridge the gap in soft-skill development. The RBC/CCAM Academy will be open to students, incumbent workers, and transitioning military personnel.

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Richard Bland College

Richard Bland College of William & Mary is a selective, residential two-year college offering academically rigorous programs, up to 80% financial assistance for high performing students, and intercollegiate athletics. The College’s Exceptional Student Experience (ESE@RBC) program provides each student with a dedicated Learner Mentor who uses real-time information to keep students on course to graduation. Richard Bland College professors are ranked among the best in the region, with over 70% of instruction delivered by full-time faculty. The College boasts a small and diverse student population on a picturesque 750+ acre campus located just south of Richmond, Virginia.  www.rbc.edu

Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CCAM)

CCAM’s mission is to solve advanced manufacturing challenges. CCAM provides a resourceful and IP friendly collaborative environment to create solutions for complex advanced manufacturing challenges. CCAM is the center of an ecosystem where academia, government, and industry partner together to create real economic value. CCAM plays an active role in the development of the most talented manufacturing workforce providing a substantial and diverse educational pathway. CCAM is located in a state-of-the-art research facility in Prince George County, Virginia. For more information, visit: www.CCAM-VA.com