Richard Bland College Partners With the Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing to Open High-Tech 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.
