Advanced Manufacturing Machine Operator Registered Apprenticeship (AMMORAP)

Fully Funded Registered Apprenticeships Through MSI’s Group Sponsor Program

SIMPLIFIED APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING WITH CASH EMPLOYER INCENTIVES

Powered by the Virginia Manufacturers Association (VMA) & the Manufacturing Skills Institute (MSI), this program is now available for Virginia manufacturers.

Grant-Funded Registered Apprenticeship + Employer Incentives

The Virginia Manufacturers Association (VMA) and the Manufacturing Skills Institute (MSI) are offering a limited‑time opportunity for manufacturers to upskill incumbent workers and train new hires through a USDOL Registered Apprenticeship program—at no cost to employers and with direct cash incentive funding for participation.

Supports high-demand, production-floor roles:

Machine Operator

Production Technician

Manufacturing Technician

Chemical Equipment Operator

Fixers / Set-Up Operators

what employers receive

Grant funding allows participating manufacturers to access the following benefits.

100% Tuition Coverage

An $1,800 per‑apprentice program fee is fully funded.

$1,350 Employer Incentive

A direct payment to the employer for each registered apprentice.

A Flexible, Production-Friendly Training Model

The program blends full‑time, on‑the‑job learning with self‑paced online instruction.

Why timing matters

We are currently allocating funding for the first half of the year. To ensure your company can secure available training dollars, a meeting is required to:

  • Review the apprenticeship program structure
  • Discuss anticipated participation levels
  • Reserve funding for your workforce needs

Additional funding is expected later in the year, but early engagement ensures your company is included in the initial allocation.

Why Manufacturers Are Participating

  • No need to register or administer your own apprenticeship program
  • Eligible for both incumbent workers and new hires
  • No out‑of‑pocket training costs
  • Direct financial incentive for participation
  • Employees earn an industry‑recognized Journeyworker credential upon completion

What do AMMORAP Apprentices Learn & Apply on the Job?

Apprentices build a strong foundation in manufacturing operations, career pathways, workplace communication, and professional job readiness required for production environments.

Apprentices apply practical math skills used daily on the production floor, including algebra, fractions, unit conversions, tolerances, and measurement accuracy.

Apprentices develop core technical knowledge in blueprint reading, mechanical and electrical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, materials, and basic process controls used in modern manufacturing.

Apprentices learn how quality systems, manufacturing costs, lean principles, and continuous improvement impact production efficiency and business performance—and how to contribute to improvement projects.

Apprentices learn OSHA-aligned safety practices, including PPE, hazard communication, and electrical safety, to support a safe, compliant, and productive work environment.

MSI AMMORAP Program Benefits

Simplified Registered Apprenticeship

Virginia manufacturers participate through MSI’s Group Sponsor model, eliminating the administrative burden of launching and managing an apprenticeship program.

Industry-Recognized Credentialing

Apprentices earn a Virginia Journeyworker Card and Certification, validating skills recognized statewide and nationally.

Accelerated Workforce Development

The program delivers 1 year of structured on-the-job learning, aligned with production needs and measurable skill progression.

Blended Technical Instruction

Includes 144 hours of Related Technical Instruction (RTI), combining online learning with applied, job-based training.

24/7 Online Access for Operators

Machine operators can complete training anytime, minimizing production disruptions and supporting shift-based schedules.

Accelerated Workforce Development

MSI’s support team provides guidance on enrollment, compliance, training coordination, and reporting.

Schedule a Program Review Meeting

Meetings are required to confirm eligibility, review participation levels, and secure funding.

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