New CACC F.A.M.E. Students Gear Up for Exciting Fall Semester

by Chance Jones

Posted on Aug 25, 2026 at 8:43 AM

Prattville, Ala. — Central Alabama Community College (CACC) is preparing the next generation of manufacturing professionals through its F.A.M.E. (Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education) Industrial Automation Technician (IAT) Program, a two-year technical associate degree designed to meet the demands of today’s manufacturing industry.

The F.A.M.E. program blends academic instruction with real-world, paid apprenticeships, ensuring graduates are both skilled and workplace-ready. Students gain hands-on experience with advanced manufacturing technologies and business principles used by local manufacturers, all while earning wages that can help cover the full cost of their education.

“What sets the CACC’s F.A.M.E. Program apart is the ‘earn while you learn’ model,” said CACC Dean of Workforce Michael Barnette. “Students apply classroom knowledge directly in professional settings with leading industry partners across Central Alabama.”

Industry partners collaborating with the CACC F.A.M.E. Program include STERIS, Premier Tech, International Paper, Kershaw, Coca-Cola Bottlers United, Kinedyne, James Hardie, and Inteplast Group. Upon completion, graduates are well-positioned for employment opportunities with sponsor companies and other manufacturing leaders.

“We are so thankful for our industry partners at CACC,” added CACC President Jeff Lynn. “The F.A.M.E. Program is a game-changer for our students, and the program couldn’t exist without the collaboration from our local industries.”

For more information about the CACC F.A.M.E. Industrial Automation Technician Program, including enrollment details and partnership opportunities, visit https://www.cacc.edu/programs/central-fame or contact Amy Owens, FAME Apprentice Program Coordinator, at (334) 595-6658 or anowens@cacc.edu.

About Central Alabama Community College
Central Alabama Community College promotes student success through affordable, comprehensive, and a wide range of academic and career programs. CACC strives to improve the quality of life for its community by supporting economic growth, community development, and workforce advancement.

  • Categories:
  • Academics
  • Prattville Campus
  • Workforce Development
  • Workforce Education
  • Tags:

Media Contact