EFSC Launching ‘Technician Boot Camp’ for Local Industry

Eastern Florida State College along with the Economic Development Commission (EDC) of Florida’s Space Coast and FloridaMakes is launching a new hands–on training program called “Technician Boot Camp” designed for the Space Coast manufacturing industry.

The 32–week intensive training course will begin this fall on EFSC’s Titusville and Palm Bay campuses and is offered through Brevard Schools Adult Education.

“This program is another example of how the college is working closely with local industry and economic development officials to tailor training that creates a pipeline of highly skilled workers,” said EFSC President Dr. Jim Richey.

“Workforce programs such as this are a central part of our mission and are growing as aerospace, high-tech and manufacturing companies expand in our community. We’re excited to be part of the effort.”

Through collaboration with local businesses, the EDC and FloridaMakes identified the skills and training needed to advance careers and fill the needs of a manufacturing industry that represents more than 500 local companies. FloridaMakes is a statewide, industry-led partnership formed to strengthen Florida’s manufacturing economy.

Worth 12 credit hours toward an Engineering Technology Associate in Science Degree (ETAS) at EFSC, the Technician Boot Camp augments the EDC’s Certified Production Technician program, an industry–recognized certificate worth 15 credit hours toward the ETAS.

After completing both programs, students are only 33 credit hours away from the Engineering Technology associate degree and a step closer to exploring transfer options for a Bachelor's Degree.

The bootcamp courses include non–destructive and destructive testing, applied manufacturing mechanics, through–hole and surface–mount soldering, and cable and wire harness assembly.

“The Technician Boot Camp resulted from direct engagement with our community’s advanced manufacturers to identify and meet their needs,” said Lynda Weatherman, president and CEO of the EDC. “Building on the success of the CPT program, the EDC and its partners will continue to cultivate a talent pipeline that benefits employers and potential employees alike.”

“FloridaMakes is proud to be a partner in creating a solution for manufacturers who need skilled workers now to meet growth demands,” said FloridaMakes CEO Kevin Carr. “Mike Ennis, the FloridaMakes business advisor at the EDC, heard the pleas from employers and was instrumental in creating this innovative program that brought us together with educators, manufacturers and the Florida Advanced Technological Education Center to design a program that supports current needs as well as one that provides pathway opportunities in advanced manufacturing careers.”

Business owners say they are eager to participate.

“I believe this new training program will be an excellent asset for North Brevard. As a business owner, I will definitely support the training of individuals looking to excel in the manufacturing arena,” said Brian Hulsberg of Spacecoast Cable & Harness Inc.

For more information on this program, contact Ryan Evans at (321) 433–5294 or EvansR@easternflorida.edu.

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