FAME

Earn a Paycheck. Earn a Degree. Build Your Future.

You are ready to get to work — not wait around.

With FAME at EICC, you get a job, real skills, and a free college degree at the same time.

How It Works 

  • You get hired by a local company as a full-time employee and paid FAME student. 
  • You spend three days a week on the job, learning hands-on skills and running real equipment. 
  • Then, you head to EICC’s Blong Technology Center for two days of class and lab training – paid for by your employer.

In about two years, you graduate with an Industrial Maintenance AAS degree, and most students are offered full-time jobs with their sponsoring company. 

Apply now. This program launches in Fall 2026.

 

Wait. What?

Manufacturers all across Eastern Iowa need skilled technicians to keep their machines running. Instead of waiting to find workers, they are training their own through FAME. When they hire you, they are investing in someone who will learn their equipment, their process, and their team.

You earn a paycheck while they help cover your college costs and when you graduate, you are ready to step right into a full-time job.

 

What will I learn?

At the FAME Technical Center inside EICC’s Blong Technology Center, you learn to run automation and robotics systems, troubleshoot using an advanced manufacturing simulator, program and maintain PLCs, as well as lead safety meetings and solve real production problems.

You learn it. You live it. Every day. You graduate prepared to keep advanced manufacturing systems running strong

A Solid Foundation

Electrical and mechanical systems

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Industrial automation and robotics

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Preventive and predictive maintenance

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Lean manufacturing and workplace organization

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SEE YOUR COURSES

Wage & Employment Outlook

 

Frequently Asked Questions

The Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) is a national, employer-led training model. It prepares students and adults for careers in modern manufacturing. It connects colleges and local companies to give students real, paid work experience while they earn a degree. Across the country, FAME graduates are known for their technical skill, strong work habits, and leadership on the factory floor.

  • Work + Learn Schedule: Three days with your employer, two days in class. 
  • Employer Sponsorship: You are hired by a local manufacturer from the start. 
  • High-Demand Careers: Skilled technicians are in short supply across the region. Your opportunities are strong and growing. 
  • Built-In Network: The Riverbend Chapter of the national FAME network connects you to industry leaders and peers across the country. 
  • Path to Full-Time Employment: Many graduates stay with their sponsoring company after completing the program. 

Because they need skilled workers now.

They would rather train and invest in you than search for someone later. You learn their equipment, earn a paycheck, and when you graduate, you are ready to step into a full-time job.;

 

Partner Companies

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How do I apply for FAME? 

Your Career Starts Now

When you join FAME at EICC, you join a movement that values skill, reliability, and innovation. You’re not waiting for an opportunity. You’re seizing it.

Next is Now.

 

The Community's College

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