OUTREACH PROGRAMS & INITIATIVES

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Home / Programs

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.

MIC growth strategy visit

RI MADE

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

> Learn more
> Connect with a team member
Graphic showing 8 job quality drivers, per NIST Baldridge

Job Quality Toolkit

The NIST Baldrige “Job Quality Toolkit” provides practical guidance on key drivers that turn routine jobs into high-quality / highly-sought-after careers. Coupled with the manufacturing expertise of Polaris MEP’s team, it is a powerful resource for attracting and retaining a diverse, productive & engaged workforce.

> Learn more
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.

> Learn more
MIC growth strategy visit

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.
> Learn more

photo of JARC manufacturing job trainees

JARC RI

Bringing Advanced Manufacturing training and employment services to underserved communities. A nationally-recognized Sectoral aproach/Center for Working Families model. Creating a pipeline of
skilled, entry-level employees for CNC, welding, press brake, and more. Also partners with Polaris MEP and clients to deliver customized, on-site, and affordable training for incumbent workers.

> Learn more
photo of JARC manufacturing job trainees

We Make RI

Helping RI Manufacturers fill open positions by recruiting and training potential workers. We Make RI paid training is open to unemployed and underemployed Rhode Islanders. Choose your track: General Manufacturing, Materials Handling, or Industrial Sewing.

> Learn more
MIC growth strategy visit

Workforce Development

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

> Learn more
MIC growth strategy visit

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.

> Learn more
MIC growth strategy visit

#MadeInRI

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

> Learn more