The Alabama branch of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) Program will soon be the largest statewide partner of the national initiative after its newest chapter at Drake State Community & Technical College officially launches in the Fall of 2025.
AL FAME is a five-semester, industry-led program that partners students with industry while they take classes at select community colleges, splitting time between the classroom and company site. Employers integrate the curriculum into real-world applications, ensuring students gain practical, hands-on experience aligned with their future careers.
“The opportunities in this part of the state are immense, and this new FAME chapter will allow more students to earn while they learn, gaining real-world experience in their chosen careers,” said Jimmy H. Baker, ACCS Chancellor. “Today’s college students value hands-on opportunities, and our industry partners are eager to hire graduates who possess the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the workforce.”
Audrey Webb, ACCS Director of Work-based Learning, explained that 90% of students remain with the company that they’re currently working for.
“They’re training these students to stay,” she said. “These students earn college scholarships and are debt-free when they enter the workforce.”
“We are looking at other types of programs like machine tool, and we could expand into welding and others. However, we’re approaching them one step at a time to ensure the curriculum is carefully developed and maintains the high standards that make FAME stand out.”
According to Alisyn Jackson, the Deputy Director for USA FAME, there are more than 40 FAME chapters across 17 states, maintaining partnerships with more than 450 manufacturing companies. The chapters supported by Alabama’s community colleges are among the best nationally.
“Alabama has been wildly successful with FAME and a fantastic partner to work with. We refer other states to the model that has been established in Alabama,” Jackson noted.
During their two years in the program, students can earn as much as $33,500, covering all of their education expenses. Students are also eligible for grants and financial aid.
Alabama is the second-fastest growing state that’s implementing the FAME program. Initially focused on training industrial maintenance technicians with the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant in partnership with Calhoun Community College, FAME has expanded in the state to nearly 200 industry sponsorships, which include Alabama Power, Amazon, and companies specializing in paper, steel, oil, gas, and tier 1 and 2 suppliers, among others.
Alabama’s community colleges have served more than 600 students through AL FAME.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
