What is Early College Early Career?

A youth apprenticeship program.
The first program of its kind in Northeast Ohio, ECEC takes local high school students and leads them through a paid internship with a local manufacturer that trains them on useful skills (such as CNC machining and welding) and helps them develop critical thinking, a strong work ethic, and teamwork.

An "earn and learn" opportunity.
ECEC gives students the opportunity to receive hands-on, real-world training while making money to pay for college. In addition, participating students can earn college credit and collect technical certifications that can help them get further in their manufacturing career.

An opportunity to experience a modern, high-tech manufacturing environment.
Forget the factories of years past - modern manufacturing is safe, clean, and innovative. This program gives young people the opportunity to work with robots, computers, 3D printers, and other innovative tech that's shaping our world in more ways than one.

A path to success.
Cohorts selected for ECEC will not only receive training, money, and college credit; they will gain a competitive edge with new skills and better work experience that can lead to multiple job offers and a rewarding, sustainable career in manufacturing.

A way to expand and support our manufacturing community.
Manufacturers who participate in ECEC can solve their workforce challenges by creating a steady, sustainable pipeline of skilled workers. This can also lead to higher retention rates, better quality of job applicants, and improved employee engagement.