Gadsden, AL – Gadsden State Community College recently hosted a signing event for the third cohort of students entering the Consortium of Machining Education Training (CoMeT), a hybrid work-based apprenticeship program designed to help students “earn while they learn” while preparing for careers in advanced manufacturing.
The event was held at the Beck Conference Center on the Wallace Drive Campus, where 19 industry partners signed 35 students to the newest CoMeT cohort, making it the largest signing class since the program began in 2023. The program was developed by college employees to address increasing workforce demands within the machining industry.
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“CoMeT Signing Day recognizes students as they begin meaningful career paths,” said Andy Robertson, dean of Workforce Development. “With strong support from our industry partners, this program creates a direct connection between education and real-world careers in advanced manufacturing.”
Students participating in CoMeT attend classes at Gadsden State two days per week while working with an industry partner for the remaining three days. Participants are paid at least $15 per hour during the five-semester program.
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Robertson said the program gives students an opportunity to gain practical experience while working toward industry credentials.
“Through CoMeT, our precision machining students build real-world experience as they work toward their credentials,” he said. “It’s not just employment, it’s a strong starting point for a vital, in-demand career, and Signing Day is where that path begins.”
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Students who complete the program will graduate with an associate in applied science degree in Precision Machining.
CoMeT courses are offered in the Precision Machining Building on the Ayers Campus and in the Advanced Manufacturing Center on the East Broad Campus. The program is led by instructors Daniel Anderson and Peyton Amberson, who oversee students as they complete 1,776 hours of work-based learning along with five projects during the apprenticeship.
Industry partners participating in the program include Associated Metalcast Inc., Carmin Industries, Gadsden Tool Inc., General Dynamics, GH Metal Solutions, Honda Alabama Auto Plant, Kobay South, M&H Valve, Prince Metal Stamping, Renaissance Manufacturing Group, and Stamped Products Inc.
Additional CoMeT industry partners include Brannon Machine, Bryant Machine Company, Choice Fabricators, New South Express, Parker Hannifin, Soteria Suppressors, Superior Swiss Solutions, and Unipres.
For more information about the CoMeT program, visit Gadsden State Community College.
