Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) (Voucher Included)

SME's Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) is an industry certification focused on basic manufacturing concepts, demonstrating an individual's potential for high-demand, entry-level manufacturing roles. It was designed for individuals new to manufacturing who may not currently possess enough knowledge or experience for more advanced technical certifications.

For example, if you are a high school student, dislocated worker, or an individual coming from other non-manufacturing sectors who wishes to pursue a role as an assembler, manufacturing associate, production associate, production laborer, or other entry-level manufacturing occupations—this course could be right for you. It is not required that you be an SME member to pursue the certification and begin work towards becoming a certified manufacturing specialist.

This advanced manufacturing training course demonstrates that you have basic knowledge of manufacturing and may be an ideal candidate for entry-level manufacturing employment. Fundamental topics covered in your course include shop math, assembly, maintenance, machining, inspection, and more.

The CMfgA credential offers an initial step into a technology-rich industry filled with opportunities for continued growth and advancement into higher-level positions. After completing your course and earning the CMfgA, SME encourages you to explore a variety of available career pathways in manufacturing and continue with training or education to earn more advanced technical certifications. The CMfgA can also be a first step and feeder into more advanced technical certifications, offering careers with higher pay and skills.

This course offers enrollment with or without a voucher. The voucher covers the cost of the certifying exam upon eligibility.

What you will learn

• An introduction to basic concepts necessary for a successful career as a Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA)
• Gain a foundational understanding of safety, manufacturing essentials, fasteners, inspection, CNC, additive manufacturing, robotics, lean, and quality upon completion of the course
• Review important topics, such as shop math, assembly, maintenance, machining, inspection, and more

How you will benefit

• Obtain an industry-driven certification that validates your knowledge and skills in manufacturing
• Develop a foundational understanding of key manufacturing best practices and skills needed for entry-level manufacturing employment
• Enhance your employability and stand out to potential employers with your new knowledge and credential
• Improve your chances of landing a job in the manufacturing industry, as the certification demonstrates that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in this field

1. Safety
2. Manufacturing Essentials
3. Fasteners
4. Inspection
5. CNC
6. Additive Manufacturing
7. Robotics
8. Lean
9. Quality

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 10 or later.
• Mac: macOS 12 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox is preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Microsoft Word Online
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Prerequisites:

There are no prerequisites for this entry-level course. However, this course requires basic computer skills, including the ability to open and manage windows, navigate websites, and perform common online tasks such as downloading files, completing forms, and using web-based tools.

Certification Requirements:

The SME Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) demonstrates that an individual has foundational manufacturing knowledge and may be an ideal candidate for entry-level employment.

• Pass an online 75-question exam with a 70% or above to earn a digital badge and may use the credentials CMfgA.

This is not an instructor facilitated course; however, support will be provided through email.

What kind of salary can I expect as a certified manufacturing associate?

According to Glassdoor.com, the average manufacturing associate salary is $42,264 per year in the U.S.

What is a manufacturing associate?

A manufacturing associate can be defined in many ways based on your work environment. For example, a few careers that fall under a manufacturing associate include a production laborer - responsible for assembly, machining, quality checks, tool changes, and problem-solving of manufacturing processes and equipment. A laborer/warehouse worker - responsible for picking and shipping parts from a warehouse. This includes staging, loading, unloading, stocking, and maintaining the warehouse inventory. A manufacturing/production technician - ensures the quality product is delivered quickly and according to safety, environmental, and health procedures and regulations. These individuals set up, start-up, operate, and shut down manufacturing equipment. They inspect products to ensure quality and may calibrate or adjust equipment and machinery settings to produce the desired product.

What is advanced manufacturing?

According to Manufacturing.org, advanced manufacturing refers to the use of innovative technologies to create new and existing products.

Does this course prepare you for a certification?

Yes. You will be prepared for the Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) certification exam through SME.

What specific skills in advanced manufacturing will I learn in this course?

This course covers the advanced manufacturing concepts of additive manufacturing and robotics.

Does the course include a focus on quality control and process improvement techniques?

This course covers lean management and quality management concepts.

How is advanced manufacturing different from traditional manufacturing, and does the course cover these differences?

Advanced manufacturing integrates innovative technology, automation, and data analytics into production processes, emphasizing efficiency, customization, and sustainability. It often involves techniques such as 3D printing, robotics, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT). This approach focuses on flexibility, precision, and rapid adaptation to market changes.

Traditional manufacturing, on the other hand, relies on established processes and manual labor-intensive methods. It typically involves linear production processes with less emphasis on digital integration and adaptability. Traditional methods are often characterized by mass production and standardization, prioritizing quantity over customization.

An example of advanced manufacturing is the use of 3D printing in the aerospace industry. Companies like Boeing utilize 3D printing to produce lightweight, complex aircraft components that are not only more efficient but also allow for quick prototyping and design iterations. This contrasts with traditional manufacturing, where components would be machined from large metal blocks, resulting in more material waste and longer production times.

This course covers concepts of robotics and additive manufacturing.

How will this course prepare me for a specific role in advanced manufacturing?

This course provides an overview of manufacturing concepts to prepare for an entry-level role in manufacturing.

Does this course cover current trends in manufacturing, such as automation, IoT, or sustainable manufacturing practices?

This course covers automation and robotics.

How will this course help me meet the qualifications for entry-level roles in advanced manufacturing?

This course exposes the learner to a wide variety of manufacturing concepts. Earning the CMfgA certification provides potential employers with evidence of understanding key concepts and potential for success in the manufacturing industry.

How can I use the skills learned here to qualify for more advanced manufacturing courses or programs?

Because this course requires a broad overview of manufacturing concepts, this training can help you determine a specific area of interest for further education or certification.

When can I start this course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course whenever you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

Can I register for courses if I am an international student?

Yes, Hope Training Academy courses are completely online. However, keep in mind that not all certifying bodies or industry-specific certifications are recognized internationally. Please review your country's regulations prior to enrolling in courses that prepare for certification.

How long does it take to complete this course?

After you register, you will receive 3 months to complete the course. The time allotted for completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours.

What if I don't have enough time to complete the course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What kind of support will I receive?

Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successfully passing the final exam, you will be awarded a certificate of completion from the school or organization that you registered through.

Am I guaranteed a job?

Hope Training Academy courses will help you gain the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. However, you should always research the job market in your area before enrolling.

Can I get financial assistance?

Hope Training Academy courses are non-credit, so they do not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA, and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards may provide funding to take our courses. Additionally, you may qualify for financial assistance if you meet certain requirements. Learn more about financial assistance.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available by phone. You can also call us at 1-855-532-7642 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us."