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 the pandemic. 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!