Group of people looking at blueprints in a factory environment

Develop the skills necessary for a successful career in manufacturing

The Certified Manufacturing Associate training program helps prepare dislocated workers, underemployed individuals, veterans, and more start a new career in manufacturing. The 25-class online training program from Tooling U-SME can be bundled with the nationally recognized Certified Manufacturing Associate credential. This training program prepares individuals for high-demand, entry-level careers including assemblers, manufacturing associates, and production operators. It can also be used by manufacturers as an effective onboarding program for new employees.

Short-term, comprehensive training

Online classes from Tooling U-SME provide the best manufacturing content developed by industry experts. The information is presented in an engaging and interactive format for maximum effectiveness, and pre-and post-assessments measure a student’s increased knowledge. Classes are self-paced, typically taking 60 minutes to complete. The 25-class training program will help employees prepare for the certification exam. They are conveniently accessible anytime, anywhere on desktops and laptops, and on tablets and phones with the Tooling U-SME app.

Build a comprehensive foundation of knowledge

Two people working on a laptop standing in a technology factory environment.

This program introduces basic concepts in the areas needed for a successful career as a Certified Manufacturing Associate:

  • Additive
  • Manufacturing
  • Blueprint Reading
  • CNC
  • Inspection
  • Lean
  • Math Fundamentals
  • Measurement and Inspection
  • Quality
  • Robotics
  • Safety
  • Troubleshooting

Earn a nationally recognized certification

The SME Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) credential demonstrates that an individual has foundational manufacturing knowledge and may be an ideal candidate for entry-level employment. It is the first step toward a lifelong career in an industry where there is opportunity for advancement and well-paying jobs.

sme.org/cmfga

Certified manufacturing associate training program

Suggested order to complete the 25-online courses:

  • Introduction to CNC Machines 201
  • Introduction to Robotics 201
  • Introduction to Assembly 101
  • Introduction to Additive Manufacturing 111
  • Tools for Threaded Fasteners 235
  • 5S Overview 151
  • Lean Manufacturing Overview 101
  • Quality Overview 111
  • Troubleshooting 181
  • Blueprint Reading 131
  • Basic Measurement 101
  • Units of Measurement 112
  • Math Fundamentals 101
  • Math: Fractions and Decimals 111
  • Basics of Tolerance 121
  • Intro to OSHA 101
  • Ergonomics 102
  • Personal Protective Equipment 111
  • Hand and Power Tool Safety 201
  • Fire Safety & Prevention 181
  • Bloodborne Pathogens 161
  • Safety for Assembly 211
  • Robot Safety 211
  • Lockout/Tagout Procedures 141
  • SDS and Hazard Communication 151

To begin your training program or for more information, contact Kim Oaks at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.