The ATDM is Tackling the Skilled Trades Gap for the Defense Industry!

Here's a superb example of a public-private partnership to help with our desperate need for more skilled trades gurus.

Jim Vinoski interviews Jason Wells from the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program, which trains the U.S. defense industrial base workforce. The program, based in Danville, Virginia, focuses on skilled trades like machining, welding, and quality assurance, integrating technology to stay relevant. It has graduated nearly 2,000 students in five years, with a current annual graduation target of 1,000. The program's success is attributed to local, state, and federal funding and collaboration with industry. The initiative highlights the importance of a proactive approach to workforce development and the need for a national perspective on the skills gap.

Highlights:
00.00 - Introduction and Overview of ATDM
02:05 - Economic Transformation and Workforce Development
07:07 - Balancing Immediate Needs with Long-Term Vision
14:53 - National Recognition and Federal Programs
19:53 - Challenges and Adaptations in Training
24:21 - Impact and Future of ATDM
32:04 - Government Support and Industry Collaboration
35:10 - Addressing the Skills Gap and Future Outlook
41:02 - Closing Thoughts and Final Remarks

The ATDM is just a phenomenal example of what needs to be happening much, much more broadly to turn the tide on our dearth of skilled trades workers.

ATDM website: https://atdm.org/