FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Covington, GA and Normal, IL: The National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) is proud to announce a strategic collaboration with Rivian Automotive to integrate Festo certifications into their apprenticeship programs and incumbent maintenance training. This initiative aims to bolster workforce readiness as Rivian expands its operations in Georgia.
Rivian Automotive, a pioneer in electric vehicle manufacturing, has joined forces with Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) in Clarkston, GA, to develop a robust apprenticeship program. This partnership will facilitate the training and development of skilled workers essential for the future of the automotive industry. Similar efforts are underway in Illinois, where Rivian is enhancing its apprenticeship offerings in Tool and Die, as well as Industrial Maintenance Systems at its current manufacturing facility.
During the week of May 13 to 17, NC3 held an instructor and industry trainer “Train the Trainer” event at the Rivian Training Facility in Illinois. This professional development initiative aimed to equip Rivian trainers with the latest instructional strategies and technical skills necessary to effectively deliver Festo certifications in their apprenticeship and incumbent working training programs.
Chandler Duggan, Lead Trainer in Manufacturing at Rivian Automotive, emphasized the significance of this partnership: “Our collaboration with NC3 and educational institutions like Georgia Piedmont and those in Illinois is a testament to our commitment to nurturing talent and advancing the automotive industry. These programs are designed to equip apprentices with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving sector.”
Alex Brookhouse, NC3 Director of Operations, recently attended the professional development session at the Rivian Automotive Training Center in Illinois. During his visit, he had the opportunity to tour Rivian’s state-of-the-art EV manufacturing facility. He remarked, “The integration of Festo certifications into Rivian’s apprenticeship programs is a groundbreaking step towards creating a highly skilled workforce. The advanced training and resources provided here exemplify the future of manufacturing education.”
Richard Andrews, Executive Director of Advanced Manufacturing Partnerships at GPTC calls this partnership ‘transformative.’
“As we embark on this journey with NC3 and Rivian Automotive, Georgia Piedmont recognizes the pivotal role of partnerships in shaping the future of manufacturing education,” Andrews said. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to equipping students with the cutting-edge skills demanded by the industry, ensuring a seamless transition into the workforce and driving innovation in the automotive sector.”
For inquiries, please contact Hannah Peltier at hannah.peltier@nc3.net.
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About NC3;
The National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) was established to build a workforce prepared to meet the demands of today’s and tomorrow’s industries. By fostering synergistic partnerships between employers and educational institutions, NC3 promotes effective training, elevates skilled careers, and creates employment opportunities. NC3 is dedicated to developing, implementing, and sustaining industry-recognized portable certifications based on national skills standards. For more information, visit www.nc3.net.
About Rivian:
Rivian (NASDAQ: RIVN) exists to create products and services that help our planet transition to carbon neutral energy and transportation. Rivian designs, develops, and manufactures category-defining electric vehicles and accessories and sells them directly to customers in the consumer and commercial markets. Rivian complements its vehicles with a full suite of proprietary, value-added services that address the entire lifecycle of the vehicle and deepen its customer relationships. Learn more about the company, products, and careers at www.rivian.com.
About Georgia Piedmont Technical College:
Established in 1961, Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) is a student-centered institution that prepares individuals with the skills necessary to succeed in a rapidly changing economy. GPTC’s graduation rate for academic year 2023, as reported by the Technical College System of Georgia, was 68 percent, and its job placement rate is about 99 percent! Georgia Piedmont Tech’s Adult Education program for high school diplomas, equivalency test preparation, and English as a Second Language classes is one of the largest in the state. The College has multiple learning centers in DeKalb, Newton and Rockdale counties and also specializes in customized business and industry training and workforce development through its Economic Development and Continuing Education division. Learn more at www.gptc.edu.
About Festo Didactic:
Festo Didactic is a world-leading provider of equipment and solutions for technical education. Specializing in industrial automation, Festo Didactic offers comprehensive training programs and certifications designed to equip learners with the skills necessary for the modern workforce. By integrating Festo Didactics’ industry-recognized certifications, educational institutions and companies ensure their trainees are prepared with the practical and theoretical knowledge needed to excel in today’s technology-driven industries. For more information, visit www.festo-didactic.com.