MISSION STATEMENT:
AMI-SD is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping build a skilled and diverse talent pipeline that serves the region’s vital advanced manufacturing sector and strengthens the broader community.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION (DEI):
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.

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.

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.

Partnership with Grossmont College - Career & Technical Education Workforce Development

Became a Registered Apprenticeship Program sponsor recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor as one of the region's leading nonprofit providers of high-quality advanced manufacturing training for entry-level, middle-skilled machine occupations, such as Quality Control Inspectors, Metal/Plastic Machine Operators, CNC Machine Operators, and Machinists.
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.
AMI-SD vision is to 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.
Cohort #16: Oct. 6, 2025 - Feb. 20, 2026
Cohort #17: Feb. 16, 2026 - Jun. 12, 2026
Cohort #18: Jun. 8, 2026 - Oct. 2, 2026
Cohort #19: Sep. 28, 2026 - Jan. 22, 2027
SCHEDULE & LENGTH
The in-person program lasts 17 weeks, Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., totaling approximately 350 hours held at 9429 Abraham Way in Santee, CA. Participants will engage in both classroom lectures and hands-on shop labs, with job placement assistance and opportunities for additional training included.
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.
We provide quality advanced manufacturing job training that is accessible to all. Ideal candidates are career-oriented, academically prepared individuals seeking rewarding work who thrive in highly structured, hands-on programs and are ready for high-wage, in-demand advanced manufacturing jobs, and require that individuals:
Physical Demands:
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.
AMI-SD is a 501c3 nonprofit organization with a mission to provide quality advanced manufacturing job training in a way 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 apply. AMI-SD serves individuals from all backgrounds, embracing a wide range of skills and experiences regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, religion, religion, religion, religion, 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
©2025 Advanced Manufacturing Institute San Diego - All Rights Reserved
Manufacturing Job Training | Advanced Manufacturing | San Diego | Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Development | Talent Pipeline
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