SME has named Greenville Technical College as the recipient of the inaugural Workforce Development Innovations Award. This recognition highlights Greenville Technical College’s exceptional commitment to innovative workforce development initiatives that address industry needs and prepare students for successful careers in manufacturing.
SME is a nonprofit committed to accelerating widespread adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies and building North America’s future talent. SME created the Workforce Development Innovation Award to celebrate organizations that drive meaningful change in workforce training and education, ensuring a strong pipeline for manufacturing in North America.
“In an era where skilled talent is the key to manufacturing success, Greenville Technical College stands out as a leader in workforce development,” says Jeannine Kunz, executive director and CEO of SME. “Their commitment to equipping students with real-world skills, fostering industry collaboration, and advancing manufacturing education exemplifies the spirit of this award. SME is honored to recognize their achievements and impact.”
Greenville Technical College earned this award for its innovative Advanced Manufacturing, Transportation, and Technology (AMTT) programs, which are distinguished by strong industry partnerships, state-of-the-art facilities, and a comprehensive, industry-aligned curriculum. The success of these initiatives is reflected in Greenville Technical College’s strong job placement rates—89% of Automotive & Diesel Technology graduates find employment within six months, while the Advanced Manufacturing and CNC Machining program boasts a 93% job placement rate.
Other key highlights of Greenville Technical College’s workforce development initiatives include:
- comprehensive program offerings – feature stackable credentials and diverse pathways across manufacturing, engineering and transportation fields
- focus on emerging technologies – incorporates industrial IoT, smart factory automation and rapid prototyping into curriculum
- commitment to non-traditional learners – supports veterans, single parents and previously incarcerated individuals to expand workforce access.
Greenville Technical College’s AMTT programs emphasize experiential learning, career readiness and employer engagement. By working closely with regional manufacturers, businesses and industry leaders, graduates are equipped with the technical expertise and critical problem-solving skills necessary for today’s evolving industry.
“We are deeply honored to receive the SME Workforce Development Innovation Award. Meeting the hiring needs of employers by delivering industry-relevant education is the reason we were founded and continues to be our focus,” says Keith Miller, Ph.D., president of Greenville Technical College. “We are proud of the work we have done to create a talent pipeline for advanced manufacturing and of the role that education for this sector is playing in economic prosperity for South Carolina and success for our graduates.”
