The Northeast Indiana Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (NEINFAME) has been awarded Quality Assurance Accreditation and named a Top Performing Chapter by FAME USA, the national network supporting the nation’s premier advanced manufacturing workforce initiative.

NEINFAME is only the second chapter in the FAME USA Network to complete this rigorous Quality Assurance (QA) process, which evaluates chapters on program quality, communication, documentation, and continuous improvement practices.

In its review, FAME USA commended NEINFAME for its outstanding communication, thorough preparation, and strong evidence of impact. The chapter was recognized for best practices including innovative 60-day student performance evaluations, a strong emphasis on professional development for Advanced Manufacturing Technicians (AMTs), and exemplary employer collaboration in a tight-knit, highly supportive environment.

“Northeast Indiana FAME is honored to be recognized as a Top Performing Chapter.  This achievement reflects the dedication of our students, employers, and educators,” said Chapter President Staci Beiswanger, Onboarding & Employee Development Manager at Steel Dynamics, Inc. “NEINFAME and our college partner, Ivy Tech, remain committed to excellence as we prepare the next generation of advanced manufacturing talent and build a stronger workforce for northeast Indiana.”

Because of its Top Performing distinction, NEINFAME’s accreditation is valid for five years, reflecting the strength and sustainability of its model.

The NEINFAME Chapter is an employer-driven partnership that develops highly skilled Advanced Manufacturing Technicians to meet critical workforce needs across northeast Indiana. Local employers sponsor students in a work-and-learn program that combines paid, on-the-job experience with classroom instruction through education partner Ivy Tech Community College Fort Wayne and Kosciusko County.

Most graduates complete the program with high employability, strong earning potential, and the possibility of little to no student debt.

Company sponsors include Steel Dynamics, Inc., Zimmer Biomet, Micropulse, Fort Wayne Metals, and Incipio Devices.

Interested parents and students are encouraged to attend one of two upcoming virtual information sessions on December 11 and December 16. For more information on NEINFAME, including how to apply or become an employer partner, visit https://neinfame.com/.