About Automated Manufacturing & Autonomous Systems 4GM
Automated Manufacturing & Autonomous Systems 4GM (AMAS4GM) provides hands-on training in advanced manufacturing, autonomous systems, CNC machining, 3D design, and digital production workflows. The program prepares students and adults for high-demand technical careers on the Eastern Shore of Virginia and beyond.
Our training combines real equipment, real projects, and industry standards to build a future-ready workforce equipped for modern digital manufacturing and autonomous technologies.
Grant Funding Statement
The following funding information is provided for public communications compliance: The total cost of the AMAS4GM program is $197,000. $197,000 (100%) is funded through a U.S. Department of Labor – Employment and Training Administration grant, Federal Community Project Grant (Congressional Sponsors: U.S. Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner, Virginia). This is a 24-month grant supporting the creation of an Automated Manufacturing, 3D Printing, and Robotics Training & Certification Lab and related course design.
The National Workforce Gap
Across the United States, manufacturing faces a critical workforce shortage.
Research projects that 2.4 million skilled manufacturing positions may go unfilled by 2028, representing an estimated $2.5 trillion economic impact.
Modern manufacturing requires workers with digital skills in automation, robotics, data, and advanced technologies, skills that traditional classrooms have not always provided.
Automated Manufacturing & Autonomous Systems 4GM is designed to help close this gap locally by delivering hands-on, industry-aligned training to students, adults, and employers.
Upskilling & Continuous Learning
Today’s manufacturers require adaptive, lifelong learners.
Upskilling existing workers is proven to be more than three times more cost-effective than recruiting new hires, especially in digital manufacturing fields like:
- Robotics & collaborative automation
- Additive and subtractive manufacturing
- Digital workflows & predictive maintenance
- AI-enabled production processes
- Cybersecurity and integrated data systems
Automated Manufacturing & Autonomous Systems 4GM supports continuous learning through scalable, flexible training modules for all ages and experience levels, from high school students to mid-career professionals.
County & Community Support
Our Mission
Our goal is to expand certificate-level training in automated manufacturing and autonomous systems on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, so young adults and emerging workers can access livable-wage careers and create new opportunities in digital manufacturing. By building proficiency in 3D printing, CNC machining, autonomous systems, sensor-based technologies, and modern production workflows, we strengthen the region’s talent pipeline and support innovative employers who rely on these critical skills. Through continued development of the digital automated manufacturing lab, we aim to empower more students, foster entrepreneurship, and support the growth of new high-technology businesses on the Shore.
