Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship Program

If you want to land a rewarding job that offers important responsibilities, opportunities to grow and a competitive salary, rely on the Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship program to help you get there. As your partner in education, Normandale is proud to present this one-of-a-kind manufacturing apprenticeship with Hired, Polar Semiconductor, Seagate and SkyWater Technology to prepare you for a future in Minnesota’s thriving semiconductor industry.  

Advanced manufacturing uses innovative technologies to improve products and processes—helping boost efficiency and productivity in all kinds of industries and offering a wide range of stable, high-paying careers. 

This pre-apprenticeship program prepares you for entry-level roles in high-tech fabrication clean rooms (called “Fab Labs”) as a machine operator, process technician, or facilities technician. These roles are the first step toward a career that can grow with you—whether you want to stay in hands-on technical work or eventually move into more advanced roles. In other words: A future of limitless career possibilities is all yours! 

Minnesota is home to some of the most respected companies in the semiconductor industry, and Normandale’s program offers you a direct path into that world—blending education with real-world experience so you can earn, learn, and develop the skills needed to excel in an advanced manufacturing career.  

Each week, you’ll split your time between working and learning. A typical example is a 12-month program where participants work 32 hours and spend 8 hours in the classroom every week. (Some cohorts may differ in duration or scheduling.) 

But that’s not all: Grant funding earmarked specifically for this pre-apprenticeship program ensures you’ll receive a full-time salary and benefits, helping you stay focused on developing the skills required for success in this competitive field.  

After completing the pre-apprenticeship program, you’ll be offered a new position with your employer—not to mention the opportunity to continue investing in your career and education. Our employer partners are leaders in the industry and committed to preparing you for rewarding advanced manufacturing jobs. 

Motivated learners who participate in this manufacturing apprenticeship earn 12 college credits from Normandale. You’ll take one course at a time during the workday—meaning you’re getting paid to learn. Your tuition, books, fees and a laptop are all covered, too.  

This program provides a great start to earning a degree and sets the stage for you to receive industry-recognized credentials while building your confidence and your résumé.  

During the pre-apprenticeship program, you’ll have access to mentors, advisors and tutors who will guide you every step of the way. As you pick up essential skills, you’ll also dive into the semiconductor industry and explore different career paths and growth opportunities. With a cohort of fellow students, you’ll hone your skills alongside others and benefit from a built-in support network as you pursue your dreams.  

If you’re ready to begin on the path toward a manufacturing career, call 952-358-8343 or email ncal@normandale.edu to learn more about this exciting pre-apprenticeship program.