Make it in America

Free training for high-demand roles. Your future in advanced manufacturing starts here.

462,000

manufacturing jobs and counting.

The U.S. needs a skilled workforce in CNC machining, casting and forging now more than ever. You’ve already taken the first step by landing here. Our comprehensive, no-cost online and in-person training programs can help propel you the rest of the way.

America's Cutting Edge

Precision manufacturing

Gain the skills you need to answer America's call for more machine tool professionals. Whether you’re searching for your first job, seeking additional training or determining your next step after military service, ACE is helping prepare new and experienced workers for top manufacturing facilities across the country.

  • CNC Machining
  • Composites
  • Metrology
  • Smart manufacturing
Join tomorrow’s machine tool workforce

Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeships & Learning

Casting and forging

Forge your future in metallurgy with no-cost online classes in casting and forging. Join the next wave of creators and pioneers needed to revive and advance our domestic metal market and restore our nation’s metal manufacturing base.

  • Casting
  • Forging
  • Digital twins
  • Automation
Start forging your future
Make a living. And your mark.

America’s manufacturing sector is experiencing unprecedented growth. These numbers tell the story of opportunity waiting for you.

$84,477
per year in advanced manufacturing

Average annual earnings for degreed and non-degreed pathways.

3,800,000
employees needed

Projected shortage of skilled U.S. manufacturing workers by 2033.

86%
non-degreed success rate

Amount of CNC machinists making a comfortable living without a four-year degree.

Success stories.

Hear from recent graduates who transformed their careers through our programs and are now building America’s future.

“

When I go to the school and hire someone out of the [ACE] program, they’re ready to go.

Monica Dirr

Owner of Pace Machine & Tool

“

It helped me be a better engineer overall.

Ashley Egenti

University of North Texas ACE bootcamp participant hired by Lockheed Martin

“

Forging and casting have become forgotten. People don’t realize what it takes to create the items we use everyday. I’m very appreciative of this opportunity. It’s available to anyone who’s willing to take the time to sit and learn.

Sydney Parks

Tennessee Tech University METAL bootcamp participant

“

It showed me that I don’t have to have a desk job when I grow up. I could be doing something with my hands. I could be creating something. It opened up a new perspective.

Yash Babar

Ohio State University METAL bootcamp participant

“

This industry is one of the blocks the world is built on. We need people who are willing to keep it alive. I’m so glad I found metalcasting when I did.

Robert Myers

Former Georgia Southern University METAL intern

“

I will become an accomplished engineer quicker because of this program.

William Goehl

University of Tennessee, Knoxville METAL bootcamp participant

“

It’s great knowing I can come here and then find a job with skills I never would have had before. ACE has taught me a ton.

AJ Gniotcyznski

Southwestern Illinois College ACE participant

“

ACE is the catalyst to get that first touch point into machining. And these bootcamps can also give you the training you need to take your skills to the next level.

Chance Henke

Workforce Development Manager at Seyer Industries

Why manufacturing and why now.

According to a recent National Association of Manufacturers poll, 65% reported that attracting and retaining talent is their primary business challenge. You can change that. With an abundance of engaging positions—all with competitive salaries and promising long-term career growth–there’s no better time to pursue a career in the trades.

Be in high demand.

Skilled trade workers are in short supply, resulting in more job opportunities and higher job security.

Earn while you learn.

Many trade careers offer paid apprenticeships, so you can start saving up while you hone your skills.

Ditch the desk.

A career in manufacturing will keep you active, engaging your mind and working with your hands.

Enjoy some flexibility.

Trade skills are needed and valuable everywhere, making you an asset in any job market.

Graduate with skills, not student debt.

Paths to high-paying careers are often funded by the industry, helping you get a foot in the door without falling behind financially.