Fourteen students hired by area manufacturers will be recognized Aug. 3 as the first Riverbend Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) cohort. All will take place in a signing event, symbolizing the commitment they are making to their employer, education, and career.
The event runs from 6 to 7 p.m. at Eastern Iowa Community Colleges’ Blong Technology Center, 8500 Hillandale Road, Davenport.
Riverbend FAME is an employer-led, earn-and-learn program that combines paid employment with college training. The 14 students work three days each week with a sponsoring company and starting Aug. 24, will attend classes and labs at EICC two days each week.
Students gain technical skills in equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and modern production systems while working toward an EICC associate’s degree and building substantial industry experience.
“This group has already demonstrated the commitment the program requires,” said Alene Bails, EICC dean of manufacturing and trades.
“These students applied, interviewed, earned job offers, and started working. They will enter the classroom with real experience and a clear understanding of what their employers need,” she added.
Participating companies include SSAB, LMT Defense, PCT Ebeam and Integration, Amcor’s Bettendorf and Muscatine operations, West Liberty Foods, Smith Filter, Schebler, Oertel Metal Works, and Novelis.
Employers provide jobs, mentoring, workplace experience, and input into the training. That involvement helps align instruction with current manufacturing needs and gives companies a direct role in developing future industrial maintenance employees.
“This partnership gives employers a practical way to build talent from within,” Bails said. “They are investing in students, helping shape their training, and developing employees who can support their operations for years to come. That strengthens local companies and the communities that depend on them.”
In addition to EICC and participating manufacturers, Riverbend FAME is supported by the Manufacturing Institute and Grow Quad Cities. The partners helped bring the national model to the region, connect employers with students, and align the program with local workforce needs.
The event will include remarks from EICC and Riverbend FAME leaders, followed by a letter of intent signing and photos with students and their employers.
For more information, email%20fameFREEEICC, call 563-441-4266, or visit eicc.edu/fame.