
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING
Gain specialized skills and knowledge to pursue well-paying manufacturing jobs. Our fast-track hands-on industrial automation and CNC machining programs prepare you for a variety of industry certifications and employment with family-sustaining wages.
MANUFACTURING AT THE RIVER IS A GREAT CHOICE BECAUSE…
- Florida is ranked among the top 10 states in the nation for manufacturing jobs
- We prepare students for professional certifications in high-demand areas like industrial automation and CNC machining
- We enjoy a strong partnership with the local manufacturers

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS
- Industrial Electrical and Mechanical Systems: Course 1
- Fluid Power and Programmable Logic Controllers: Course 2
- Mechatronics Apprenticeship
- America’s Cutting Edge (ACE) CNC Bootcamp
- Precision Machining
- Youth Programs
- CAM for Machinists
- Manufacturing Technician
Industrial Electrical and Mechanical Systems: Course 1
This 15-week non-degree course prepares students for careers in automated high-tech production, manufacturing, and distribution fields. It introduces critical aspects of theory, repair, and maintenance of electrical and mechanical components integrated into larger automated systems.
This is the first essential course to kick off your career in automated manufacturing and production.
Topics include maintenance operations, electronics theory, and circuits, basics of mechanical and electrical components, motors and drives, and industry safety.
Upon completion of this program, students will be awarded a certificate of completion from the ý River State ý School of Continuing Education and have an opportunity to earn the following industry credentials, resulting in “Electrical Systems Specialist” certification:
- OSHA 10, General Industry
- ETA, Certified Electronics Technician
- SACA, C-101 Associate-Basic
- SACA, C-201 Electrical Systems
- SACA, C-202 Electric Motor Control Systems 1
- SACA, C-204 Motor Control Troubleshooting 1
- SACA, C-206 Electrical System Installation 1
- SACA. C-210 Mechanical Power
Students might be eligible to earn credits toward an A.S. Degree in Industry Management and Supervision and an A.S. Electronics Engineering Technology.
Local Manufacturing Partners
We maintain strong partnerships with local manufacturers, offering students direct pathways to employment. These connections open doors to job opportunities with respected companies such as FedEx Ground, Niagara Bottling, Walmart Distribution, and others.
Tuition Funding Opportunities
Students may be eligible for financial assistance .
Upcoming course: August 24th – December 9th, 2026 | Monday’s & Wednesday’s | 5:00-10:00pm
How to Apply & Next Steps
There are no prerequisites for this program. You can register and make your payment for this course online:
After you’ve pre-registered, our team will be in touch to guide you through the next steps.
Course Information
The course tuition is $3,500. There are no prerequisites.
Location
ý River State ý Massey Campus
3209 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce
Eastman Advanced Workforce Development Complex, O101
Once You Complete the Course
This course is an entry point to careers as an industrial maintenance technician, electro-mechanical systems technician, automation technician, mechatronics technician, maintenance mechanic, industrial mechanic, and more. You will be able to work across a spectrum of industries to maintain, troubleshoot, and fix industrial automated systems and their applications. These include automated distribution and supply chain, food processing, information technology and data centers, automotive, aircraft and boat manufacturing, healthcare and biotechnology, pharmaceutical manufacturing, agriculture, aerospace, and defense. To advance your training, consider taking the second course, “Fluid Power Systems and Programmable Logic Controllers”.
To learn more about this program, contact Alex Wrobel, Coordinator: Advanced Manufacturing Hub, awrobel@irsc.edu or 772-462-7042.
Fluid Power and Programmable Logic Controllers: Course 2
This 15-week non-degree course will prepare students for careers in automated high-tech production, manufacturing, and distribution. It introduces critical aspects of pneumatic and hydraulic power systems. It also covers programmable logic controller operation and troubleshooting. This specialized training program is designed to meet the demands of modern manufacturing and production industries, where automation technologies play a pivotal role in increasing efficiency, reducing human error, and enhancing overall productivity. This course is the second in a series of three courses in automated manufacturing.
Topics include industry safety, pneumatic and hydraulic power systems, circuits, valves, PLC operations, programming, and troubleshooting.
Upon completion of this program, students will be awarded a completion certificate from ý River State ý School of Continuing Education and have an opportunity to earn the following industry credentials, resulting in “Control Systems Specialist” certification:
• OSHA 10, General Industry
• SACA, C-203 Variable Frequency Drive Systems 1
• SACA, C-205 Sensor Logic Systems 1
• SACA, C-207 Programmable Controller Systems 1
• SACA, C-208 Programmable Controller Troubleshooting 1
• SACA, C-209 Pneumatic Systems 1
• SACA, C-211 Total Productive Maintenance
• SACA, C-255 Hydraulic Systems 1
Students might be eligible to earn credits toward an A.S. Degree in Industry Management and Supervision and an A.S. Electronics Engineering Technology.
Local Manufacturing Partners
We maintain strong partnerships with local manufacturers, offering students direct pathways to employment. These connections open doors to job opportunities with respected companies such as FedEx Ground, Niagara Bottling, Walmart Distribution, and others.
Tuition Funding Opportunities
Students may be eligible for financial assistance through
Upcoming course: August 25th – December 8th, 2026 | Tuesday’s & Thursday’s | 5:00-10:00pm
How to Apply & Next Steps
After you’ve pre-registered, our team will be in touch to guide you through the next steps.
Course Information
The course tuition is $3,500. The pre-requisite is Industrial Electrical and Mechanical Systems.
Location
ý River State ý Massey Campus
3209 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce
Eastman Advanced Workforce Development Complex, O117
Once You Complete the Course
This course will help advance in careers as an industrial maintenance technician, electro-mechanical systems technician, automation technician, and mechatronics technician. You will be able to work across a spectrum of industries to maintain, troubleshoot, and fix various automated systems. These industries include automated distribution and supply chain, food processing, information technology and data centers, automotive, aircraft and boat manufacturing, healthcare and biotechnology, pharmaceutical manufacturing, agriculture, aerospace, and defense.
To learn more about this program, contact Alex Wrobel, Coordinator: Advanced Manufacturing Hub, awrobel@irsc.edu or 772-462-7042.
Mechatronics Apprenticeship
Apprenticeship emphasizes practical skills and combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. This creates a pathway to a skilled career, easing the transition from education to employment.
The one-year apprenticeship in Mechatronics (Industrial maintenance and Automation) at ý River State ý is a structured, hands-on training program combining mechanical, electronics, and programming elements to prepare individuals for advanced manufacturing, automation, and robotics careers. Mechatronics apprenticeships offer a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, making it an ideal pathway for those looking to excel in the field of modern industrial systems.
Topics include:
- Industrial Safety, Electronics Theory, DC & AC Circuits, Basics of Electrical & Mechanical Components, Motors, and Drives
- Pneumatic and Hydraulic Power Systems, Circuits, Valves
- PLC Operations, Programming, Troubleshooting
After completing this program, students will be well-prepared to take the following industry certification exams:
- OSHA-10, General Industry
- SACA, C-101 Associate-Basic Operations
- SACA, C-201 Electrical Systems
- SACA, C-202 Electric Motor Control Systems 1
- SACA, C-203 Variable Frequency Drives 1 (please add)
- SACA, C-204 Motor Control Troubleshooting 1
- SACA, C-206 Electrical System Installation 1
- SACA, C-210 Mechanical Power Systems 1
- SACA, C-211 Total Productive Maintenance
- SACA, C-209 Pneumatic Systems 1
- SACA, C-255 Hydraulic Systems 1
- SACA, C-205 Sensor Logic Systems 1
- SACA, C-207 Programmable Controller Systems 1
- SACA, C-208 Programmable Controller Troubleshooting 1
Upcoming Course
August 24th – December 9th, 2026 | Monday’s & Wednesday’s | 5:00-10:00pm
Course Information
Tuition: $0
Fee for Sponsoring Company: $400 per apprentice
Location
ý River State ý Massey Campus
3209 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce
Eastman Advanced Workforce Development Complex, O101
To register and learn more about this program, contact:
Michael Hidalgo
Apprenticeship Manager
772-462-7390
apprenticeship@irsc.edu
Alex Wrobel
Advanced Manufacturing Coordinator
772-462-7042
awrobel@irsc.edu
America’s Cutting Edge (ACE) CNC Bootcamp
Whether you’re searching for your first job, seeking additional training, or determining your next step after military service, ACE is helping prepare new and experienced workers for top manufacturing facilities across the country.
Through ACE, participants receive online instruction and hands-on, in-person training that supports a new career path or advancement in the machine tool industry. No prior experience or education in the field is required to enroll in the ACE computer numerical control (CNC) machining training program.
With 30,000 machining companies and a multitude of job vacancies, the American manufacturing industry is booming. Whether you’re starting out, transitioning from the military, or seeking fresh prospects, ACE is here to guide you.
The hands-on machining camps are one class a week for 7 weeks.
The online training consists of 5 modules and should take 6-10 hours to complete. The online program is self-paced training and covers introduction to machining, machining costs, computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and more.
The in-person training will consist of 7 full days, 7:30-3:30pm, once a week, for 7-week sessions. During the hands-on portion of the camp, you will fabricate and assemble a functioning oscillating piston air engine. To attend the in-person camp, please for and complete the free online course.
Curious what the bootcamp really looks like? Watch this video– real students, real skills, real transformation:
The CNC camps at ý River State ý are supported by America’s Cutting Edge (ACE) program. The program is free for all attendees and covers all tools, materials, supplies, snacks, lunch, and a T-shirt! Upon successful completion of the bootcamp, participants will be celebrated and awarded a certificate. ACE is supported by the U.S. Department of Defense’s Office of Innovation Capability and Modernization through its Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) Program. ACE brings together the scientific expertise of the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), advanced training tools and techniques developed at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), and the workforce development leadership of IACMI—The Composites Institute.
To learn more about this program, contact Alex Wrobel, Coordinator: Advanced Manufacturing Hub, awrobel@irsc.edu or 772-462-7042.
Bootcamp schedule in 2025-2026:
Camp 1:
October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
November 7, 14, 2025
Camp 2:
January 9, 16, 23, 30
February 6, 13, 20, 2026
Camp 3:
March 27
April 3, 10, 17, 24
May 1, 8, 2026
Precision Machining
Precision Machining is a 15-week accelerated non-degree course designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills required for manual machining and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) operation. This course provides a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience, making it ideal for those looking to develop expertise and gain employment in precision manufacturing processes quickly.
Topics include an introduction to machining, industrial safety, shop math, measurements, metrology, tooling, blueprint reading, inspection, manual milling, turning, and CNC.
Once You Complete the Course
This course is an entry point to careers as a machinist, machine operator, CNC operator, metal fabricator, and others. You will be able to work across a spectrum of manufacturers that provide services to aviation, aerospace, defense, entertainment, automotive, and other industries.
Local Manufacturing Partners
We maintain strong partnerships with local manufacturers, offering students direct pathways to employment. These connections open doors to job opportunities with respected companies such as Daher, Pursuit Aerospace, Pace Machining, Piper Aircraft, and others.
Course Information
The course tuition is $3,500.
Course Location
ý River State ý Massey Campus
3209 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce
Brown Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Y125
Course Dates
Upcoming Course: August 24th – December 9th, 2026 | Monday’s, Tuesday’s, & Wednesday’s | 4:00-8:00pm
How to Apply and Next Steps
There are no prerequisites for this program. You can register and make your payment for this course online:
After you’ve pre-registered, our team will be in touch to guide you through the next steps.
To learn more about this program contact Alex Wrobel, Coordinator: Advanced Manufacturing Hub, or 772-462-7042.
Youth Programs
Robotics for Beginners
This hands-on robotics program is designed for students ages 10-15 to explore STEM through building and programming robots using VEX IQ kits. Students develop teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills while learning how mechanical and coding systems work together.
Beginner sessions are available for students with no prior experience, providing a fun and supportive introduction to robotics. Each session helps build confidence and prepares students for future STEM opportunities and robotics competitions.
VEX Robotics is a globally recognized platform that allows students to design, build, and program customizable robots using beginner to advanced coding languages, while also offering opportunities to participate in competitive challenges.
Program Information
- Time: 8am to 5pm
- Cost: $250
- Locations: Eastman Advanced Workforce Training Complex: Massey Campus, Fort Pierce
Session 1: June 8, 9, 10, & 11, 2026
Ages: 10-15
Session 2: July 6, 7, 8, & 9, 2026
Ages: 10-15
Drone Soccer
Give your child an exciting introduction to aviation and robotics through U.S. Drone Soccer! This hands-on program allows students design, build, program, and fly their own drones—then compete in fun, fast-paced team matches inside a safe, enclosed arena.
Students work in teams to score goals, defend, and solve real engineering challenges while developing valuable skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
More than just a game, Drone Soccer introduces students to high-demand career pathways in aviation, engineering, and technology—including drone piloting, aerospace, and more.
- Hands-on STEM learning
- Team-based competition
- Builds confidence and real-world skills
- Open to all students—no experience needed
Program Information
- Time: 8am to 5pm
- Cost: $250
- Locations: Eastman Advanced Workforce Training Complex: Massey Campus, Fort Pierce
Session 1: June 15, 16, 17, & 18, 2026
Ages: 10-15
Session 2: July 13, 14, 15, & 16, 2026
Ages: 16-18
Future Creators: 3D Design for Printing & Gaming
This program introduces campers to the exciting world of 3D creativity and digital technology. Campers will learn how to design their own 3D models for video games, animation, and 3D printing using industry-inspired software and tools. Through fun, hands-on projects, participants will create characters, objects and virtual worlds while exploring creativity, problem solving, and basic engineering concepts. By the end of the program, students will bring their ideas to life both on screen and through real 3D-printed creations.
Program Information
- Time: 8am to 5pm
- Cost: $250
- Locations: Eastman Advanced Workforce Training Complex: Massey Campus, Fort Pierce
Session 1: July 20, 21, 22, & 23, 2026
Ages: 13-15
Session 2: July 27, 28, 29, & 30, 2026
Ages: 16-18
*Special Note to Parents of Students Receiving State Scholarship Funding: Please email manufacturing@irsc.edu requesting a detailed receipt for the purposes of reimbursement.
For any inquiries, contact Alex Wrobel, awrobel@irsc.edu or (772) 462-7042.
CAM for Machinists
This 15-week course trains machinists to create, simulate, verify, and prepare CNC toolpaths using two platforms: Autodesk Fusion CAM and Mastercam. Students begin in Fusion to build foundational CAM logic, then transition into Mastercam for advanced production workflows. HAAS CNC control operation, offsets, dry runs, and G-code interpretation are integrated into every module. Students complete a Fusion CAM certification project.
Upon completion of this program, students will be awarded a certificate of completion from the ý River State ý School of Continuing Education and have an opportunity to earn the following industry credential:
Students might be eligible to earn credits toward an A.S. Degree in Industry Management and Supervision
Tuition Funding Opportunities
Tuition assistance might be available. Reach out manufacturing@irsc.edu.
Upcoming Course
August 24th – December 9th, 2026 | Monday’s, Tuesday’s, & Wednesday’s | 5:00-9:00 pm
How to apply and Next Steps
There are no prerequisites for this program. You can register and make your payment for this course online:
After you’ve pre-registered, our team will be in touch to guide you through the next steps.
Course Information
The course tuition is $3,500. There are no prerequisites.
Location
ý River State ý Massey Campus
3209 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce
Eastman Advanced Workforce Training Complex, Automation Lab, O117
Once You Complete the Course
Successful completion of this training opens immediate pathways to in-demand careers across precision manufacturing. Graduates are prepared for entry-level to intermediate roles such as CNC Machinist, CNC Programmer, Manufacturing Technician, and CAM Specialist. This credential signals to employers that candidates can contribute productively on day one, supports faster hiring and wage progression, and provides a strong foundation for advancement into advanced machining, multi-axis programming, and manufacturing engineering roles. Consider coupling this training with our other precision machining and metrology training to further strengthen technical competencies and expand career advancement opportunities.
To learn more about this program, contact Alex Wrobel, Coordinator: Advanced Manufacturing Hub, awrobel@irsc.edu or 772-462-7042.
Manufacturing Technician
This 15-week training provides students with foundational knowledge and practical skills required for entry-level employment in the manufacturing industry.
Emphasis is placed on workplace safety, quality assurance, production processes, manufacturing tools and equipment, and effective communication in a team environment. Instruction combines classroom learning with applied laboratory experiences to ensure students gain both theoretical understanding and hands-on proficiency. This program prepares graduates to meet industry standards and pursue further education or advancement within the field of manufacturing.
Potential Outcomes
- Opportunity to earn the industry-recognized MSSC Certified Production Technician (CPT) credential
- Demonstrate knowledge of workplace safety practices and apply OSHA standards in a manufacturing environment.
- Apply principles of quality assurance and inspection techniques to maintain product and process standards.
- Identify and describe common manufacturing processes, tools, and equipment used in modern production settings.
- Interpret technical documents, including blueprints, schematics, and work instructions.
- Operate basic manufacturing tools and equipment with proficiency and accuracy.
- Apply problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to identify, analyze, and resolve production challenges.
- Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors using appropriate workplace terminology.
- Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and collaborative skills essential for success in manufacturing careers.
Funding Opportunities
Students may be eligible for financial assistance through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), provided by Career Source. The funding can help cover the cost of tuition for qualified individuals.
Upcoming Course
August 25th – December 8th, 2026 | Wednesday’s & Thursday’s | 5:00pm – 10:00pm
How to apply and Next Steps
After you’ve pre-registered, our team will be in touch to guide you through the next steps.
Course Information
The course costs $200. There are no prerequisites.
Location
ý River State ý Massey Campus
3209 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce
Brown Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (Y-125)
To learn more about this program contact Alex Wrobel, Coordinator: Advanced Manufacturing Hub, awrobel@irsc.edu or 772-462-7042.
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WE’RE HERE TO HELP
Learn more about how The River’s Advanced Manufacturing program can help you reach your career or educational goals. Reach out to get more information or speak to an admissions counselor.
Alexandria Wrobel
awrobel@irsc.edu
772-462-7042

NEXT STEPS

APPLY TO THE RIVER
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PAYING FOR COLLEGE
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VISIT CAMPUS
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