The New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP) on Wednesday announced the arrival of its state-of-the-art Mobile Training Center, a custom-built RV that is set to revolutionize how advanced manufacturing training is delivered across New Jersey.
The mobile training lab is equipped with the latest in advanced manufacturing technologies, including 3D printers, robotic arms, HAAS PLC-powered CNC mills, and augmented reality (AR) welding equipment. The RV will travel to manufacturing operations, schools, and community centers throughout New Jersey, making it easier to access specialized training and resources.
Pete Connolly, who took over as NJMEP’s CEO in June of 2023, said the Mobile Training Center was one of the first significant investments he wanted to make.
“When I was joining the team and held the role of COO, I heard two reoccurring challenges: Transportation issues holding manufacturers back from investing in professional development training for their teams and the need to engage K-12 students to show them, their parents, and school counselors that manufacturing was a viable career path,” Connolly said.
“Employing this Mobile Training Center will solve both those challenges,” he said. “We can deliver training to any community, any manufacturer, and utilize the Mobile Training Center as a modular classroom or hands-on training lab. “We can take the training facility to nearly anywhere in the state. Also, we will incorporate the Training Center in the Future Makers and Creators Tour locations we are hosting with the support of the NJEDA.”
Melanie Willoughby, executive director of New Jersey Business Action Center (NJBAC), said that as advanced manufacturing continues to grow in the state, the Mobile Training Center will help upskill talent and make training more accessible to all communities.
“This investment will foster talent attraction, boost career development, and encourage business partnerships throughout our 21 counties, further driving economic growth and enhancing the quality of life within the Garden State,” Willoughby said.
The NJMEP Mobile Training Center recently made its debut at the New Jersey State Fair, where it displayed advanced manufacturing technologies to attendees, including local legislators and community leaders. This RV will continue its journey across the state for NJMEP’s Future Makers and Creators Tour, ensuring that every corner of New Jersey has access to the tools and training necessary to support the growth of the manufacturing industry.
