FAME workforce development students enjoy new OSU-OKC manufacturing lab

To meet the manufacturing talent needs in Greater Oklahoma City, the Greater OKC Chamber partnered with Oklahoma State University-OKC to launch the state’s first chapter of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME). This national program combines classroom education with hands-on experience to prepare students for careers in manufacturing.

Through OKC FAME, students can earn an associate degree while working part-time with local manufacturers, including Climate Control Group, IDEX Energy – Advanced Flow Solutions and OMADA International. In August, eight students began their placements, gaining valuable skills on the job.

Theo Mauer and Zachary Cothrum, both working at IDEX Energy, are among the first to join OKC FAME. Under the guidance of their team manager, Ian Waite, they are building skills in CNC programming, robotics and technical documentation—areas essential to the industry’s growth.

Waite noted the benefits of FAME, explaining, “The program immerses students in real manufacturing environments from day one, teaching both technical skills and business practices. As they rotate through various job functions, they become well-rounded and prepared for the demands of Oklahoma’s manufacturing sector.”

These students’ learning is further supported by OSU-OKC’s new 2,393-square-foot Advanced Manufacturing Lab. Designed to simulate a factory floor, the lab includes an AMTEC system funded by OSU Polytech, allowing students to train in robotics, hydraulics, automation, and mechatronics. The Manufacturing Core Exercises (MCEs) within the program focus on job-specific skills, giving students a competitive edge.

“The advanced manufacturing lab provides students with technical, hands-on learning using the same equipment they use in their place of work,” said Dr. Ronna Vanderslice, OSU-OKC interim provost and vice provost of academic affairs of the OSU System. “OSU-OKC funded equipment for the program to provide students with skills that support a smooth and easy transition into the workforce.”

“Within just a few months, we’ve seen impressive progress,” added Dr. Evan Burkala, vice provost of academic affairs at OSU-OKC. “At a recent safety ceremony, students presented their personal safety commitments, a sign of their technical and personal growth. They’re developing not only expertise but also confidence and discipline.”

The Advanced Manufacturing Lab represents a $1.4 million investment, partly funded by a $580,000 Workforce Advancement Initiative grant championed by Rep. Stephanie Bice and former Sen. James Inhofe. The space is flexible, allowing equipment to move freely between instructional areas to support diverse training needs.

“Our lab replicates an actual manufacturing floor,” Dr. Burkala said. “This setup offers students a close match to the environments they’ll encounter in their careers. As industry needs shift, we’ll continue to update our equipment and tools to keep students aligned with current trends.”

OSU-OKC and OKC FAME aim to expand the program, bringing in more students and industry partners to create job opportunities while maintaining access to evolving technology. Dr. Burkala added, “Our goal is to grow the lab and the program, ultimately supporting Oklahoma City’s economic growth by preparing a skilled workforce.”