Spokane Community College (SCC) is launching two new certificate programs designed to provide affordable manufacturing training and immediate job readiness.
The Basic Manufacturing Certificate and the CNC Machining Operators Certificate will be offered on weekday evenings for $25 and $50, respectively. They are intended to attract adults in low-paying jobs who want a better opportunity and career, as well as those who are returning to the workforce, unemployed, or ready for a career change. The new certificate programs are funded by a U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Strengthening Community Colleges (SCC5) training grant, awarded to SCC in spring 2025.
“These programs were created to address Eastern Washington’s workforce needs while making high-quality training accessible to students who are ready to step into good-paying, in-demand careers,” said Julie Parks, Vice President of Workforce Development. “By leveraging federal grant support, we’re able to dramatically reduce the cost barrier for students and ensure our regional employers have the skilled workforce they need.”
Basic Manufacturing Certificate (October 13 – December 17, 2025)
Monday & Wednesday evenings from 5:30-9 p.m.
- Provides entry-level training in production, machine operation, quality control, and maintenance
- Emphasizes safety, teamwork, and workplace readiness
- Modules include Manufacturing Tools and Equipment, Manufacturing Math, Manufacturing Processes, Safety, Employability Skills, and Quality Manufacturing Practices.
- Job interviews with local manufacturers
- Cost to participants: $25 (with grant support)
CNC Machining Operators Certificate (January 5 – March 25, 2026)
Monday – Friday, evenings – 24 Credits
- Two-quarter program offering specialized training for careers as CNC machining operators
- Classes include Print Reading for CNC Operators, Machine Theory, Inspection and Quality Control, and Safety
- Builds advanced technical skills that prepare graduates for high-demand roles in manufacturing
- Cost to participants: $50 (with grant support)
To qualify for grant-supported program costs, participants must be at least 18 years old, have the ability to work in the United States, and be committed to entering the workforce upon program completion or continuing on to earn an associate’s degree within two years.
The $5.75 million Strengthening Community Colleges (SCC5) training grant aims to increase student access to affordable, high-quality, hands-on training that will build a highly skilled workforce eager to give back to the community. The grant supports the creation of the Washington Advanced Manufacturing Coalition to advance automation and manufacturing career pathways. SCC is working with a coalition comprised of the Spokane Workforce Council, Big Bend Community College, Edmonds College, and Green River Community College. The grant will allow for the purchase of new equipment, provide tuition/training funds for individuals to enter employment, align manufacturing curriculum from high school into post-secondary training opportunities, and offer more life-friendly learning options for students seeking flexibility. SCC is one of 18 colleges across 14 states to receive the four-year DOL grant.
About Spokane Colleges - Spokane Community College and Spokane Falls Community College are part of Spokane Colleges, one of the largest higher education providers in Eastern Washington, serving about 20,000 students each year. Spokane Colleges provides higher education, early learning and workforce training and continuing education services across a six-county region in northeastern Washington. Both colleges are accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.