ABOUT US
MISSION STATEMENT:
AMI-SD is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to sustaining the advanced manufacturing and defense industries by developing a skilled and diverse talent pipeline that serves the region and strengthens the broader community.
ABOUT:
AMI-SD assists the region's advanced manufacturing workforce by providing training that prepares individuals to become productive and job-ready in under a year for entry-level and middle-skilled positions, such as CNC Machine Operators, Machinists, and Quality Control Inspectors. Our goal is to establish a pipeline of skilled workers to meet the labor demand in the advanced manufacturing and defense sectors.
PROGRAMS & SERVICES:
Our programs and services are designed to equip individuals with little-to-no manufacturing experience to acquire the technical and professional skills needed to secure stable, well-paying careers. Graduates of our programs earn livable wages, contribute to economic mobility, and help to reduce unemployment in the San Diego region.
COST:
Our programs and services are provided to participants tuition-free and at no cost to them.
PARTNERS & COLLABORATION:
We collaborate with workforce agencies, educational institutions, community-based organizations, and employers to leverage resources and enhance support for participants. Our partnerships help attract a diverse range of populations and ensure that training aligns with industry needs, enabling businesses to fill critical skill gaps and remain competitive.
THE NEED & WHY THIS MATTERS:
The U.S. is facing a significant manufacturing skills gap. By 2033, it’s projected that nearly 1.9 million manufacturing roles could go unfilled if the workforce is not equipped with the necessary technical skills.
We help address two critical issues in San Diego County:
- The skilled labor shortage in the region's vital advanced manufacturing and defense sectors.
- Improving equitable access (for all) to high-paying, middle-skill precision-machine occupations that are in demand and readily available in the region.
ANNUAL REACH:
We serve over 40+ individuals and administer 2-3 cohorts annually. Since our inception in 2014, we have served more than 300 individuals across 17 cohorts, achieving a 90% job placement rate for our program graduates.
OUR HISTORY
2014
Established as the “Grande Foundation,” a 501(c)(3) nonprofit by Bob Grande, a Veteran and Small Business owner, as a forward-thinking effort to develop a diverse and skilled workforce for the region’s vital manufacturing sector.
2015
Launched the first “Manufacturing Academy” cohort with 12 participants, and structured as a Customized Training program with support from the San Diego Workforce Partnership and the East County Economic Development Corporation.
2024
Partnered with Grossmont College Career & Technical Education Workforce Development
2025
Became a Registered Apprenticeship (RA) Sponsor (Program #2025-CA-133259) recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor
2026
2026
Became an authorized training provider for the Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge program.
Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQ)
Advanced manufacturing utilizes innovative technologies in material production, integrating information, automation, computation, software, and networking. It encompasses modern manufacturing processes for existing products and creates new products from emerging technologies. Careers in this field typically offer salaries and benefits over $84,000 annually, providing secure paths for growth and advancement.
The precision-machined products industry is part of the advanced manufacturing sector, producing highly engineered components to customer specifications using a variety of materials, including steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, plastics, and various aerospace- and medical-grade metallic alloys. Using the latest technology, including CNC turning and milling centers, this industry produces complex parts and complete assemblies for finished goods such as automobiles, aircraft, heavy trucks, medical devices, appliances, construction equipment, and more.
We offer high-quality job training in advanced manufacturing that is accessible to everyone. Our ideal candidates are unemployed, underemployed, and/or career-shifting individuals who are looking for rewarding work. They thrive in structured, hands-on programs and are ready to pursue high-wage, in-demand jobs in advanced manufacturing.
It is important that these individuals:
- Seeking employment in advanced manufacturing
- Being at least 18 years old
- High school graduate or GED holder
- U.S. citizen
- Internet access and email for the application
- Basic computer skills and mechanical aptitude
Physical Demands:
- Must be able to walk and reach with both arms and hands.
- Must be able to stand for extended periods.
- Must be able to carry as much as 50 lbs.
- Have good eyesight, including close vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment
SCHEDULE & LENGTH
Cohort #17: Feb. 16, 2026 - Jun. 12, 2026
Cohort #18: Jun. 15, 2026 - Oct. 9, 2026
Cohort #19: Oct. 12, 2026 - Feb. 5, 2027
Cohort #20: Feb. 8, 2027 - Jun. 5, 2027
Cohort #21: Jun. 8, 2027 - Oct. 2, 2027
All Cohorts are 17-weeks, and take place Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm
totaling approximately 350 hours held in Santee, CA.
IN-PERSON. We offer an in-person program. Manufacturing is a hands-on industry, and our training requires participants to engage in face-to-face lessons. Our programs are dedicated to preparing students for careers in manufacturing, where graduates will work in an in-person environment. Participants will engage in both classroom lectures and hands-on shop labs, with job placement assistance and opportunities for additional training included.
Yes, AMI-SD offers job placement assistance with advanced manufacturing companies in San Diego County, alongside support for resume and interview preparation, soft skills development, and visits to local hiring managers.
The U.S. is facing a significant manufacturing skills gap. By 2033, it’s projected that nearly 1.9 million manufacturing roles could go unfilled if the workforce is not equipped with the necessary technical skills. AMI-SD helps build a skilled talent pipeline that meets industry demands and strengthens the broader community.
As an advanced manufacturing and technical skills development organization, we serve San Diego County by providing inclusive access to technical training opportunities. We also assist industry employers in recruiting and developing a steady pipeline of skilled workers for the region's manufacturers, addressing critical workforce needs. Our recruitment efforts aim to ensure equitable access to career pathways in advanced manufacturing for all.
AMI-SD aims to provide high-quality advanced manufacturing job training that is accessible to everyone. Veterans, Women, and individuals who are unemployed, underemployed, facing barriers to employment, and those from historically disadvantaged communities are encouraged to apply. AMI-SD serves individuals from all backgrounds, embracing a wide range of skills and experiences, regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, disability, nationality, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or veteran status. AMI-SD views diversity among our team and students as essential to unlocking the full potential of America’s workforce. AMI-SD programs are designed to cultivate an environment where everyone can perform at their best, free from institutional or individual biases.
Grande Foundation d.b.a Advanced Manufacturing Institute San Diego | Tax ID: 45-3746056
©2026 Advanced Manufacturing Institute San Diego - All Rights Reserved
CNC Machine Job Training San Diego Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Development Talent Pipeline
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