The Central PA Talent & Innovation Defense Ecosystem (TIDE) initiative will deliver a vibrant, highly skilled defense industrial base workforce that is vital to strengthening our national security and U.S. industrial competitiveness.
Central PA
Talent & Innovation
Defense Ecosystem
Building and Supporting Defense Manufacturing
The project will stand up a sustained defense-focused workforce and training ecosystem that stretches across the region. TIDE will scale the capacity and capabilities of the existing education and training system to deliver critical defense-specific skills in the key occupations of machinists, skilled welders, and mechatronics technicians.
To strengthen the ecosystem, resources will be used to: help small and medium manufacturers overcome barriers to adopting automation; connect youth and career-seeking adults with defense manufacturing pathways; and elevate awareness of career opportunities in the Maritime Industrial Base (MIB) and Defense Industrial Base (DIB) across Central PA.
Get Trained
The TIDE Project will deliver critical industry-specific skills training for careers in CNC Machine Operator, Welder, or Industrial Maintenance (Mechatronics) Technician. Whether you are a defense employer looking to skill up your existing workforce, or an individual interested in working in defense manufacturing, successful completion of training can lead to employment, credentials, apprenticeships, and continuing education opportunities – all in support of our region’s Maritime and Defense Manufacturing industry and our national security.
Get Automated
The mission of the TIDE Project is to remove barriers to automation and plant floor technologies for regional small and medium defense manufacturers to increase their production capabilities and U.S. industrial competitiveness. The goal is to help strengthen our vibrant, highly talented MIB/DIB employers in Central PA.
To accomplish this, TIDE will deploy a targeted, NO COST Automation Readiness Assessment to eligible defense manufacturers.
Collaborate Now
Designated as a Defense Manufacturing Community in 2023, Central PA is a critical hub of the state’s defense activity. The TIDE Consortia – led by The Manufacturers’ Association – leverages a broad and committed partnership of MIB/DIB employers, training providers, workforce and economic development organizations, community agencies, and more, all focused on building and sustaining regional defense manufacturing.
Central PA
Talent & Innovation Defense Ecosystem
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