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Programs of Study

ÃÈÃÃÊÓÆµ Campus Photo


The East Alabama FAME (Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education) Industrial Automation Technology Program includes a two-year technical associate degree that combines a cutting-edge curriculum, which supports advanced manufacturing technology, paid working experience, along with learning highly sought after business principles and best practices of a world class manufacturer.

FAME is offered on the Ayers and East Broad Campuses.

This "earn while you learn" education model combines a cutting-edge curriculum that supports advanced manufacturing technology with paid work experience. Students also learn highly sought after business principles and best practices of a world class manufacturer. 






     
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Cohort 9 Application
OPENS October 1, 2026 and
CLOSES February 28, 2027

 

Application Process

Apply to be a student at ÃÈÃÃÊÓÆµ
Complete the  (Application for the Fall 2027 Cohort 9 closes Feb. 28, 2027)
Submit all application items to fame@gadsdenstate.edu
Submit copies of high school transcripts and college transcripts (if applicable)
Complete an essay that contains the following topics:
Student background, any EET or INT classes they have completed, and why they want to be a part of FAME.
Applicants participate in industry interviews

Student on laptop at home on couch

QUALITY HALLMARKS

Paid Work Component: The employer will pay the student employee at least the applicable federal, state and local minimum wage, describe the wage progression requirements to the student employee and describe the apprentice’s opportunity to gain mobility in the industry.

Work-Based Learning & Mentorship: While learning on the job, the program will provide a mentor to support the student employee and provide guidance on the industry or company culture as well as workplace policies and procedures.

Safety, Supervision & Equal Opportunity: The program will ensure adequate and safe equipment and facilities for training and supervision. Safety training will be provided for the student employee while on the job and in related technical instruction. Ensure there are qualified training personnel and adequate on-the-job supervision.

Educational and Instructional Component: The program will provide high-quality instruction and adequate training space and resources to help the student employee achieve their proficiency goals or earn credentials or certifications. Credentialing information will be provided by ÃÈÃÃÊÓÆµ.

Industry-Recognized Credential: The program must provide the student employee the opportunity to earn an industry-recognized credential. A degree and certifications earned through completion of the program at ÃÈÃÃÊÓÆµ is widely considered to be one of the most valuable industry-recognized credentials.

Industry Partners: (click logos to find out more)

 

 

STUDENT STANDARDS

Attire: 
To be worn by students while on campus and/or at any ÃÈÃÃÊÓÆµ function:

  • Collared shirt provided by ÃÈÃÃÊÓÆµ with FAME logo
  • Shirt tucked in with a belt
  • Long pants suitable for the industrial automation trade (abide by any regulations set by OSHA or any other safety governing body)
  • Boots / Industrial shoes: Steel-toe if required by the industrial automation trade
  • Clothes and shoes must be properly laundered, understanding that precision machining can often lead to staining and exceed normal wear and tear.
  • Hair must be clean and well groomed. Long hair must be pulled back and secured to ensure safety standards are met.

Attendance: 
Students are required to arrive 20 minutes early to work and school

Safety Circle:
Students will be required to participate in a safety circle at the beginning of each school day. Lack of participation will result in deducted points from safety circle grade.

FAME Program Advisor: Ayers Campus

Michael Butterworth
Industrial Automation Instructor
FAME Building
256-835-5457
mbutterworth@gadsdenstate.edu

   
FAME Program Advisor: East Broad Campus

Matt Maini
Industrial Automation Instructor
Advanced Manufacturing Center
256-549-8636 
mmaini@gadsdenstate.edu 

 

CONTACT:
Keri Wood

Work-Based Learning Manager
kwood@gadsdenstate.edu
256-549-8633

 

 

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