New Century Careers

New Century Careers is a nonprofit manufacturer and technical skills development organization serving the Southwestern PA community through inclusive access to technical training opportunities while helping employers find and develop technicians seeking purpose, passion and success in the workplace.

Manufacturing accounts for 15% of regional employment and the average Machinist I salary in Pennsylvania is $24.31/hr., or just under $50,000 a year to start! Yet manufacturers continue to seek skilled workers for these high-demand technical careers and are having challenges finding individuals who can safely do the work, have industry-recognized credentials, and a desire to advance in their careers. That's why, since 1999, New Century Careers has worked to fill this gap through its tuition-free Manufacturing 2000 (M2K) Pre-Apprenticeship Program. Enrollees 18 and older- male or female - may be looking for a sustainable family-wage position with flexible hours. Others may be seeking jobs after high school, have tried college but decided on another career path, or have lost a job due to economic conditions. Trainees learn machining basics through classroom and hands-on experience. A bonus is job placement assistance with one of NCC's 130-plus partner companies -- all in as little as 3-4 months! Your donation helps fill the skilled worker gap for our local partner companies while also supporting local families with family-sustaining wages, today and into tomorrow!

Testimonials

In January 2025, Edward L. became one of the first trainees to enroll in New Century Careers’ MANUFACTURING 2000 (M2K) Quick-Train program at the University of Pittsburgh Community Engagement Center in Homewood. His decision to join wasn’t the result of a traditional referral. Edward discovered the program while browsing Craigslist for career opportunities. What started as a simple search quickly became a turning point in his professional life.

Edward brought with him a varied background, including work as a utility laborer, production roles in a steel mill, and experience holding a CDL. Yet, it was the precision and creativity found in machining that ultimately drew his interest. Edward viewed machining, particularly in automotive manufacturing, as an art form — a craft that allowed him to apply his creativity in tangible ways.

Throughout the M2K program, Edward thrived in the hands-on training environment. Whether operating lathes, mills, surface grinders, or engaging in CNC programming, he appreciated how each element of the program prepared him not only with technical skills but also with professional habits like punctuality, safety awareness, and attention to detail. Edward expressed a keen desire to expand his knowledge of CNC programming, seeing it as a critical step in his development as a machinist.

When reflecting on his experience, Edward had this to say: “Yes, I would recommend this program, not only is it free, but the quality of education you get here is unmatched. This isn’t smoke and mirrors.”

He also offered advice for future trainees: “As long as you take it serious, the possibilities are endless. There are so many opportunities in the manufacturing industry.”

Edward’s approach to learning remains forward-thinking. When asked about his favorite project, his answer was simple: “My next project.”

After completing the Quick-Train program at the University of Pittsburgh CEC in Homewood and finishing his training at NCC’s South Side facility, Edward is beginning his career with HP Gazzam Machine Co. His long-term goal is to become a journeyman machinist, with a possible focus on tool and die work, a reflection of his commitment to mastering the craft he sees as both a trade and an art.