The Alliance for Working Together (AWT) was started in 2002 as a small, informal group of manufacturers who met to discuss topics of interest and ways to collaborate with other manufacturers in Northeast Ohio. Finding skilled workers was quickly identified as one of the top challenges for manufacturers. Promoting rewarding careers in manufacturing became the core mission of the organization. In 2012, the AWT Foundation became a 501-(c)3 non-profit. Since then, the AWT Foundation has grown to include hundreds of manufacturing companies, educational institutions, and community organizations, all working together to sustain manufacturing in the region.
The AWT Foundation is hard at work to address the critical shortage of skilled workers in manufacturing. The group recognizes the importance of educating parents, teachers, and students about the value of manufacturing as a viable and rewarding career path. With the manufacturing sector rapidly growing in Northeast Ohio and a significant number of baby boomers approaching retirement, the need to prepare future generations for manufacturing careers is more important than ever.
With the help of strategic partners, the AWT Foundation has developed impactful Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM)-to-career programs. Through these initiatives, AWT has engaged 21,500 students across 54 schools in 12 counties and hosted 275 events in 2024 alone. Signature programs like RoboBots, JuniorBots, and the Think Manufacturing Career Expo have exposed students to manufacturing careers and connected them with local companies. AWT has also facilitated over 2,300 tours of manufacturing facilities for students, teachers, and parents, as well as professional development opportunities for educators.
For adult participants, AWT provides workforce development programs, including pre-apprenticeships and registered apprenticeship opportunities recognized by the Department of Labor and ODJFS. These programs focus on in-demand manufacturing skills such as Precision Machining, Tool & Die Making, and CNC Programming. AWT’s WorkAdvance program equips job seekers with essential technical and soft skills, helping them secure employment with local manufacturers.
If you or your organization is interested in contributing to the AWT Foundation’s mission or learning more about its initiatives, please contact the AWT at Contact@ThinkMFG.com or call 440-462-1995. Together, we can prepare the workforce of tomorrow and ensure the continued success of manufacturing in Northeast Ohio.
