(58) This project is bringing representatives from industry and education together to address training and education needs for today and the future. The principal issues that are being addressed are: (1) identifing parties who will validate the required competencies of the manufacturing technicians; (2) developing information about previous and ongoing efforts in aerospace manufacturing; (3) benchmarking existing educational models; (4) establishing linkages with other related programs, associations, and organizations; and (5) developing a definitive plan is needed to attract and retain individuals from underrepresented groups. Principal project participants include Boeing and Northrop Grumman, representing the customers for the training process; El Camino College, Oregon Institute of Technology, and Purdue University, as the education providers; and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers as a provider of continuing education, training and certification. The results of the project are being disseminated through a variety of media including workshops, conferences publications and expositions.
