Manufacturing careers come in a variety of forms. In order to explore the array of potential career options the industry presents, our Manufacturing Spotlight series has highlighted professionals working in various roles throughout the manufacturing industry, and given readers a closer look at what careers in manufacturing really look like. The intention of these conversations and articles is to offer those who may be considering a career in manufacturing a realistic, no nonsense look at life in the industry. We’ve spoken with manufacturing professionals across the spectrum, from General Managers to Machine Operators, to gain unique insights and perspectives.
For the latest installment of our Manufacturing Spotlight series, we spoke to Amanda LeBlanc, a CNC Machine Operator at Innovent Technologies, and a graduate of the Advanced Manufacturing Training Expansion Program (AMTEP). Amanda is a manufacturing success story, and the ideal example of the significant value that can be gained by attending AMTEP courses.
Let’s take a closer look at Amanda’s unique experiences and perspectives.
Amanda’s Career in Manufacturing
Innovent Technologies, headquartered in Peabody, MA, is a contract manufacturing company that specializes in Component Fabrication such as Machining, Welding and Cleaning. Components that are manufactured by Innovent include capital equipment for medical companies, like catheters and X-ray devices, and components for the semiconductor industry. Amanda’s job title with the company is CNC Machine Operator, which involves setting up and operating machine equipment, maintaining equipment, and playing a vital role in the creation of essential parts and components. Amanda has been proactive with her responsibilities, and as a result, she is thriving in her role. So much so that her manager is already trusting her with more responsibility.
“I’m already starting to train new-hires,” Amanda told us, “which is something I’m really enjoying.”
Much of Amanda’s success in the industry can be attributed to her work ethic and her willingness to learn new things. Interestingly enough, though, a career in manufacturing wasn’t initially her plan.
“I was a hairdresser before this, but I decided I wanted to improve myself and that I needed better job security and pay.”
It’s safe to say that Amanda’s career change has been a tremendous success. One of the reasons for her success, though, is the skillset she gained as an AMTEP graduate.
Amanda’s Experience with AMTEP
The Advanced Manufacturing Training Expansion Program (AMTEP) focuses on providing manufacturing training, at no cost, to unemployed, underemployed and inexperienced career seekers in order to help those people move into fulfilling manufacturing careers. Amanda enrolled in AMTEP courses when she decided to move out of her career as a hairdresser, and it turned into one of the best decisions of her life.
“The AMTEP courses were very thorough,” Amanda said, “they gave me a very good understanding of the machine runs, and they prepared me for the state and national tests. The program really prepares you well.”
In addition to the time spent training during the AMTEP courses, Amanda also got to see the inside of a few machine shops, which changed her perspective on what the manufacturing industry can look like.
“You think you’re going to be walking into a massive machine shop, but it isn’t really like that. I don’t feel like I’m just a number.”
Transitioning from career as a hairdresser to a CNC Machine Operator in the manufacturing industry has gone almost perfectly for Amanda, much of which can be attributed to her commitment to learning and hard work. But the AMTEP program also played a part, equipping her with the basic skills necessary to thrive in manufacturing, and placing her in a role with a great company.
Now, Amanda just moved into a new apartment with her boyfriend, and she told us she has a better quality of life with less stress. We asked Amanda if she would recommend AMTEP to those interested in starting a career in manufacturing.
“The program is worth your time. It really is.”
Visit the AMTEP webpage to learn more about how you can enroll in the program and start your manufacturing career