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Sponsored by: Maine Community College System
Updated: October 21, 2025

Building Maine’s Manufacturing Workforce

A Conversation with Dan Belyea, Chief Workforce Development Officer at the Maine Community College System

How are Maine’s community colleges contributing to Maine’s manufacturing workforce?

Maine’s community colleges are training the next generation of skilled manufacturing workers through short-term training, one-year certificates, and two-year associate degrees. To meet industry demand, we have significantly expanded the short-term training programs through the Harold Alfond Center for the Advancement of Maine’s Workforce. We work directly with employers to identify their workforce needs and develop short-term and pre-hire programs tailored to those needs. Whether it’s welding, HVAC, manufacturing technology, or supply chain logistics, colleges offer hands-on skills and certifications that lead directly to employment. These efforts help manufacturers fill essential positions across the state.

Why is workforce development in manufacturing such a priority right now?

It’s a strategic priority because manufacturing is at the heart of Maine’s economy and national defense. Major defense contractors—Bath Iron Works, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Saco Defense, and Pratt & Whitney—along with smaller suppliers, produce ships, submarines, and precision components for the U.S. military. The demand for skilled workers is high, and meeting it requires preparing people for these careers, as well as for those in private, small- and medium-sized businesses.

How are community colleges responding?

The Center brings together education, funding, and industry in real time. Through the Center, we leverage investments to quickly build programs, provide stipends and wraparound support, and help employers address urgent hiring needs. The Maine Workforce Development Compact helps employers upskill workers and offer scholarships toward associate degrees. It’s a coordinated, stackable approach that delivers results at the speed of business.

Describe the work that’s being done around industry sector partnerships.

We’ve built strong sector partnerships across key industries, and manufacturing is one of the most robust. Our team works with the Maine Defense Industry Alliance and the state’s three major defense employers—Bath Iron Works, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, and Pratt & Whitney—to design shared training solutions. One example is our Manufacturing Technician program, developed collaboratively so graduates can apply to any defense contractor.

How does the Center directly support employers?

We start by listening. Our first step is to meet with employers to understand how many workers they need, the required skills, and the hiring timeline. From there, we help design custom training programs that align with those needs—whether through short-term, pre-hire, or incumbent worker training. We also connect employers to funding through the Maine Workforce Development Compact, which offsets the cost of training and expands access for their employees. It’s about helping employers build the skilled workforce they need while creating meaningful career opportunities for Maine people.

Do you have partners in this work?

Absolutely. Our partnerships make this work possible. We collaborate with employers, state and federal agencies, trade associations, and organizations like the Maine Defense Industry Alliance. Each brings expertise and resources—whether securing funding, offering apprenticeships, or providing support for trainees with housing and transportation. The system only works when everyone is at the table.

Is this model unique to manufacturing programs at community colleges?

While manufacturing is a strategic priority, the model is applicable across various industries. The Center’s approach—employer-driven, short-term training that directly connects to jobs—is also utilized in healthcare, construction, and other sectors. Manufacturing offers scale and coordination, but the framework remains the same: listen to employers, design responsive training, and support Mainers in acquiring the skills to succeed.

What are some examples of training?

Programs include manufacturing technician training, marine design, welding, HVAC technician training, CDL training for supply chain roles, advanced manufacturing, and apprenticeships. We also support professional development within companies to help teams grow and advance.

Where should individuals go to learn more?

Start with www.mccs.me.edu/workforce-training for information on how to join the Compact, view the short-term trainings at our colleges, or connect with our team to find a solution tailored to your workforce’s needs.