Local Manufacturing Bootcamp Graduates 22 Students, Paving the Way for Bright Careers on the Central Coast

SLO Partners, a leading provider of career upskilling and apprenticeship programs in California, today announced the successful graduation of 22 students from its 2023 Modern Manufacturing Bootcamp. These graduates now have the skills to secure careers in the region. Some have already secured employment with companies including Rantec, Edge Autonomy, Trelleborg, and Mantis Composites.

The Modern Manufacturing Bootcamp, a cornerstone of SLO Partners' commitment to fostering skilled talent for local businesses, equips participants with the expertise needed to excel in the thriving Central Coast manufacturing sector. This achievement is particularly significant in light of concerns about the economic landscape, as upskilling and career transitions become essential strategies for locals seeking job security.

This is SLO Partner’s 7th Modern Manufacturing bootcamp. More than 75 local residents have gained employment in the industry after completing the program and secured a 30% wage increase.  

Liam Limon, a former student of the program and now a manager at Edge Autonomy, shared his insights into the bootcamp's impact: "SLO Partners' Modern Manufacturing Bootcamp provided me with the knowledge and hands-on experience I needed to secure a fulfilling career in the manufacturing industry. It's not just about learning; it's about practical skills that employers value."

Paula Mathias-Fryer, Senior Director at SLO Partners, emphasized the importance of upskilling during uncertain times: "In the face of economic uncertainties, it's crucial for people to invest in their skills and explore opportunities in growing industries. The Central Coast manufacturing sector offers a promising path for those seeking stability and career growth."

The demand for skilled workers in the Central Coast's manufacturing sector has been on the rise, driven by the region's strategic location in the state's supply chain and its strong client base in aerospace and related sectors. 

Eric Henderson, Director of Manufacturing at Rantec Power Systems, added, "The manufacturing hub on the Central Coast is bustling, and at Rantec, we are ensuring we stay competitive. I'm excited to pull in talented people from the local area and see where their careers can go, given the opportunity here at Rantec."

SLO Partners encourages locals interested in pursuing a career in manufacturing to explore their apprenticeship programs. For more information, please visit https://slopartners.org/modern-manufacturing/.

About SLO Partners (www.slopartners.org) 

SLO Partners is a leading provider of career upskilling and modern apprenticeship programs in California. Established in 2014 as an initiative of the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education, SLO Partners aims to create accelerated career pathways for residents, enabling them to earn head-of-household incomes while addressing the skilled talent shortage for local businesses. The organization has successfully launched intensive upskilling programs, including FullStack Software Developer, Software Testing, IT Networking, Precision Manufacturing, and Digital Marketing, resulting in over 175 career opportunities in SLO County in tech and manufacturing roles, contributing to a $5 million economic impact. For more information, watch the 'SLO Partners: How it Works' video and visit www.slopartners.org.