Hoffman Partnering with Anoka Technical College in ATC’s State Grant Award to Support Program for Accelerated Craftsmanship Training

Careers in Craftsmanship, a program for accelerated training of skilled craftspeople in metal fabrication. Funded by a grant awarded to Anoka Technical College by the state of Minnesota in the amount of $298,434. Careers in Craftsmanship is presented through a partnership between Hoffman and Anoka Technical College, Anoka, MN. Hoffman’s commitment to this program is an in-kind match of $1.3 million. The standard, repeatable training program features a curriculum that provides marketable skills to potential new hires and existing production workers who need to enhance their skills in order to encourage craftsmanship as well as create and preserve manufacturing jobs in Minnesota. Hoffman, one of the world’s leading protection solutions providers—designing and building over 10 million enclosures, cabinets and accessories every year—has five North American manufacturing plants. Its two Anoka plants employ 1,150 people, with an average of 20 years of experience each. Of these employees, nearly 50 percent reside in Anoka County.

 “Hoffman’s legacy of quality and craftsmanship includes a forward looking commitment to providing employment and growth opportunities to the local community as well as a long standing practice of promoting from within,” said Mike Bauman, Hoffman director of human resources. “Many of our most senior managers began their careers on our shop floor, working for a company that values experience and rewards loyalty.” Adds Tina Robinson, Hoffman value stream manager, “Careers in Craftsmanship teaches the skills and knowledge necessary to become a valued part of the Hoffman family and realize the rewards that come with a career in craftsmanship.”

 Careers in Craftsmanship, offered through the Anoka Technical Center (ATC), the college’s customized training division, features the first program for advanced manufacturing training: Skilled Manufacturing Certificate Level 1. Curriculum includes a variety of hands-on fabrication, technical and production coursework as well as leadership training, delivering a practical foundation for graduates to immediately enter the manufacturing field as a skilled craftsperson. Upon completion of the program, graduates have a strong advantage for a number of positions at Hoffman in addition to preferred placement and internships.