Last year, the Foundation oversaw the awarding and installation of over $1.2M worth of equipment at participating schools as well as provided professional development and related training for educators.

Key metrics reviewed from schools responding to the study indicate that the SME PRIME schools initiative has resulted in 89% of students directly entering the manufacturing workforce, training in an apprenticeship position or pursuing postsecondary education in engineering or manufacturing disciplines.

Through the last academic year, SME PRIME schools programs awarded more than 300 industry-recognized certifications in precision measurement instrumentation (PMI) instruction, robotics, machining and additive manufacturing.