Great River FAME Program Accepting Applications for 2026 Cohort

Photo of manufacturing mentor and FAME student at plant
January 21, 2026

Caption (L/R): Chuck Makins from Knapheide serves as a mentor to Josef Lawlor, a Manufacturing Technology student at John Wood Community College’s(JWCC). Through the Federation of Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) program, Lawlor works three days a week at Knaphiede and receives hands-on training two days a week at JWCC’s Workforce Development Center. Makins and Lawlor are pictured here at Knapheide’s Quincy plant where Lawlor is currently maintaining the company’s compressors as part of his training.

Students Earn $21 an Hour While Training with Local Manufacturing Companies

John Wood Community College (JWCC) and the Great River chapter of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) have announced that applications are now open for students wishing to apply for the nationally recognized training program. Prospective students have until April 30, 2026, to apply for this transformative opportunity to gain hands-on experience and launch rewarding careers in advanced manufacturing.

Interested individuals are encouraged to visit www.jwcc.edu/fame to learn more about the program and complete an inquiry form. Following form completion, JWCC staff will reach out to assist with the application process. Interested students are also encouraged to attend an Explore STEM, Trades, Manufacturing, and Logistics event February 20 from 9 a.m. to Noon at JWCC’s Workforce Development Center. Company representatives involved in FAME will be available to share details about positions and JWCC pathways staff will provide information about the manufacturing program courses and many other career, technical, and science career pathways. Registration for the explore event can be made at explore.jwcc.edu.

The FAME program is a partnership between JWCC and leading regional manufacturers including ADM, DOT Foods, Gardner Denver, General Mills, Knapheide, and Titan International. The program is designed to develop highly skilled talent to meet the growing needs of the manufacturing industry. Students earn while they learn, gaining valuable work experience three days a week at a sponsoring company earning at least $21 per hour and attending hands-on training at JWCC’s Workforce Development Center two days a week.

Graduates of the program earn an associate in applied science degree in Advanced Manufacturing Technology which prepares them to excel as multi-skilled maintenance technicians and in other in-demand roles.

“The FAME program is a game-changer for individuals looking to jump-start a career in manufacturing,” Valerie Howell, JWCC Coordinator of Business and Industry Programs shared. “The program is also highly valued by participating companies as it connects them with talent for training early. FAME is the quickest way for students to build strong industry connections and the best opportunity for a great position with a head-of-household salary.”

Key Highlights of the Great River FAME Program:

  • Two-year earn-and-learn model with paid work experience.
  • Development of technical skills in areas like robotics, troubleshooting, and lean manufacturing.
  • Emphasis on professional behaviors such as communication, teamwork, and critical thinking.
  • Partnerships with top local manufacturers, ensuring real-world relevance and career opportunities upon graduation.

More information is available from Howell at 217.641.4929 or www.jwcc.edu/fame.

John Wood Community College is the educational link between business and community. JWCC collaboratively creates innovative and relevant academic and training programs with business leaders to educate young people and the workforce for today's needs and tomorrow's opportunities. JWCC has centers in Quincy, Pittsfield, Baylis and Mt. Sterling, Illinois. Programs include a comprehensive baccalaureate transfer curriculum, customized business training, career/technical degrees, certificates, and personal enrichment courses.