‘Registration open & scholarships available for workers displaced by COVID and women.
For the first time in its history, Housatonic Community College (HCC) will offer a spring cohort for its Advanced Manufacturing program. The program, which begins on January 22, provides a direct path to well-paying, in-demand careers, and offers many students a full scholarship.
In just eight months, students will gain the technical skills needed to become entry-level machinists and receive assistance with internship placements. Upon completion in August, graduates can enter careers with starting salaries ranging from $40,000-$60,000.
“Today, there are thousands of well-paying manufacturing jobs available in Connecticut, but there is a shortage of trained workers. With this new spring cohort, we are transforming lives, creating the next generation of talent, and lifting our economy,” said Dwayne Smith, Ph.D., HCC Chief Executive Officer.
“This program is perfect for anyone, male or female, who is good with their hands and seeks a meaningful career in an industry with in-demand jobs,” said Kristy Jelenik, Executive Director of the HCC Foundation. “This is a great opportunity to forge a new career path and come out of COVID-19 stronger.”
Registration is going on now and full scholarships for tuition and books are available for workers who experienced job loss as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic. In an effort to encourage women to enter the manufacturing workforce, the scholarships are also available for those interested in the field. This funding was made possible through generous grants from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation.
“I’m so glad that HCC could provide assistance so that I could go to college for free. I want to show other females that while this is a primarily male-dominated field, they can be successful. Everyone here is very encouraging, it’s like a big family,” said Advanced Manufacturing student Quinn Hayes.
Classes for the spring cohort will be held on campus, in the evenings. HCC is located at 900 Lafayette Blvd. in Bridgeport and follows strict safety guidelines.
Applications are now being accepted. To register for the spring cohort, or to learn more, contact Program Coordinator Adam Scobie at to get started.
Caption For Photo Above: HCC Advanced Manufacturing student Quinn Hayes benefited from a full scholarship and encourages other women to enter the manufacturing field.