OUTREACH PROGRAMS & INITIATIVES

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Improving Rhode Island Manufacturing and the Public Good

Polaris MEP drives, manages and/or plays a leading role in a variety of programs that are driven by the needs of smaller Rhode Island manufacturers. We enhance their performance and the economy of the Ocean State by working with key partners on new, innovative initiatives and by contributing to ongoing programs.

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RI MADE

Polaris MEP/the University of Rhode Island Research Foundation leveraged a $5Million Defense Manufacturing Community Grant to establish Rhode Island Manufacturing to Accelerate the Defense Ecosystem, or RI MADE. The project funds automation & robotics, cyber resiliency and risk mitigation resources to strengthen the state’s maritime defense industrial base.

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Graphic showing 8 job quality drivers, per NIST Baldridge

Bagley SkillsBridge

The Bagley SkillsBridge program is dedicated to bridging the skills gap between retiring manufacturing employees and new, incoming talent. It leverages funding from the Department of Labor Community Projects, championed by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse. Polaris MEP will power and implement the program.

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supply chains infographic - nist

Supply Chain Solutions

Helping smaller Rhode Island manufacturers become stronger and more resilient by rebuilding or re-inventing supply chains.

This program leverages the strength of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership National Network and connects Ocean State manufacturers to new suppliers or partners across the United States.

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Fast Track to Manufacturing

Expanding the pipeline of skilled workers with FREE training  in partnership with CCRI and job placement support. Each year, preparing cohorts of trainees available to fill positions as CNC operator, Quality Control person, or entry-level manual machinist or toolmaker.
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photo of JARC manufacturing job trainees

JARC RI

Advanced Manufacturing training and employment services which promote strong communities, businesses, and households to ensure that people who work do not live in poverty. Creating a pipeline of skilled, entry-level employees for CNC, welding, press brake, and more. Also partners with Polaris MEP and clients to plot career pathways and deliver customized on-site training for incumbent workers.

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photo of JARC manufacturing job trainees

Ocean State Reentry Pathways

Bridging the gap between manufacturing employers and a motivated, job-ready workforce. Thanks to a Pathway Home grant from the US Department of Labor, employer partners gain access to resources, support and expertise needed to successfully hire reentry talent.

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Workforce Development

Strengthening the industry’s workforce pipeline with programs that promote manufacturing careers and deliver needed / valued technical skills training.

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WE MAKE RI

Helping Manufacturers fill open positions by recruiting & offering PAID training to to unemployed and underemployed Rhode Islanders. Tracks: General Manufacturing, Materials Handling, or Industrial Sewing.

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#MadeInRI

Raising the visibility of products made in the Ocean State and highlighting the contributions of RI’s manufacturers to our economy.

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energy sustainability efficiency

WOMEN IN MANUFACTURING

Supporting the NEW Rhode Island chapter of Women in Manufacturing (WiM), the only national & global trade association dedicated to supporting women who have chosen careers in manufacturing.

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