M-Powered

Student FAQ

Are manufacturing jobs dangerous? Are they physically demanding?
Manufacturers provide safety training and special equipment to protect workers from accidents and injuries on the job. Workers who follow the rules and use the equipment properly can expect to work their entire career without an injury.

Many jobs in manufacturing involve standing for long periods of time. Plants can be noisy. However, most of the heavy lifting and other strenuous tasks are now done or assisted by machines.

What kinds of skills and abilities do I need to succeed?
The number one thing that manufacturers look for in an employee is a willingness to work and to learn. If you can show up for work on time every day, follow directions and accept responsibility, you can succeed in manufacturing. You’ll need basic math and blueprint reading, which are skills that almost everyone can learn. The ability to communicate and work well with others will keep your career moving forward.

How much can I earn?
Most M-Powered graduates earn an average of $12 per hour after six months on the job. The median wage for an experienced tool and die maker is around $50,000 currently in Minnesota. In addition, you’ll receive benefits like insurance, paid vacations, and tuition reimbursement.

Will I have job security?
Some workers stay with one company their entire careers. Others move to companies that offer specific jobs, wages, or benefits. In the “small world” of manufacturing, you’ll develop a network of contacts.

Can I move up the career ladder?
With additional training and experience, you can become a team lead, shift supervisor, or manager. You may choose to move into other areas of the company, like safety training, tool and die making, training, or human resources. Hands-on experience in manufacturing is an excellent background for many kinds of engineering careers.

What if I want to continue my education?
Most manufacturing companies have tuition reimbursement programs that will help you to pay for job-related courses. You can complete an Associate’s Degree at Hennepin Technical College. Your coursework will apply directly toward a four-year degree within the Minnesota State College and University (MSCU) system. There are programs in manufacturing, engineering, business, marketing, and more.

What if I want to move to another part of the country?
Manufacturing is a nationwide industry. Your skills and certifications will transfer to other regions.

What is M-Powered?
M-Powered helps to prepare workers for careers in the metalworking manufacturing industry. Its focus is on lower-wage and unemployed workers. In their first twelve-week session of classroom training, participants are taught basic skills such as applied math, measuring, print reading and job safety. Following successful completion of Level 1, candidates begin Level 2, a specialized lab trainining in five knowledge clusters:

Computer Controlled Micro-Machining Technician
Precision Metal Stamping Technician
Quality Control Process Technician
R & D Lab Process Technician
Manufacturing Process Technician

During Level 3 program participants are placed in M-Powered companies for a three-month structured on-the-job training program in their chosen field.

How is M-Powered different from other vocational or technical programs?
M-Powered is sponsored and supported by employers who need skilled workers. These employers agree to interview for paid on-the-job training for M-Powered participants who complete Phase I and II of “Fast-Track” classroom training. The number of participants in the M-Powered project is based on the paid positions available to graduates. So far, more than 25 companies have participated in the M-Powered Project.

Another important difference is that HIRED, a nonprofit workforce development organization, is a partner in the M-Powered project. HIRED provides coaching and support when you need it. You’ll know what is expected from you in the classroom and on the job. You’ll get help handling challenges like transportation and child care.

What is the cost of the 12-week classroom training?
Students may apply for full tuition coverage. Learn more

Who is qualified to participate in the M-Powered program?
You must be at least 18 years old, with a high school diploma or GED.

How do I apply?
Screening and applications are handled by HIRED, which will help determine whether you are eligible for M-Powered.

How long will it take me to get a job through the M-Powered project?
The M-Powered Project is based on a “fast-track” principle: Level 1, a twelve-week session of classroom training, covers applied math, measuring, print reading, job safety and other basic skills. Following successful completion of Level 1, candidates begin Level 2 specialized lab trainining in five knowledge clusters:

Computer Controlled Micro-Machining Technician
Precision Metal Stamping Technician
Quality Control Process Technician
R & D Lab Process Technician
Manufacturing Process Technician

During Level 3 program participants are placed in M-Powered companies for a three-month structured on-the-job training program in their chosen field.

What kinds of companies work with the M-Powered program?
M-Powered prepares workers for companies in metalstamping/sheet metal fabrication, welding and machining/CNC operation. Companies who have hired workers or have sent their workers through the training include:

How do I find out more?
Contact Dunn Yoshitani by phone at 612.715.6523 or at dunn.yoshitani@HIRED.org

Funding for M-Powered is provided by a Community-based Jobs Training Grant from the United States Department of Labor. This project provides priority of service to veterans and spouses of veterans. Hennepin Technical College is an affirmative action, equal opportunity educator and employer.