JMA Workforce Development Program

What JMA Provides

Serving Alabama and Mississippi, we provide no-cost trainings with stipends and flexible schedules that result in industry-recognized certifications.

Career Exploration and Training Opportunities: 

• Career assessments 
• Essential skills training
• Educational and technical training
• Financial literacy training 

Pre-Apprenticeships and Paid Work Experience:

• Electrical pre-apprenticeship program 
• On-the-job training
• “Earn while you learn”

Job Readiness and Job Placement Services:

• Resume preparation 
• Mock interviews
• Mentoring/counseling
• Job referrals 

Networking Opportunities:

• Career and resource fairs 
• Industry-specific events
• Higher education lectures 

Our Program in Action

As part of our community benefits agreement (CBA) with New Flyer, we are creating a customized pre-apprenticeship program at the company’s Alabama facility that ensures the success of all workers, particularly those from historically disadvantaged groups.

Led by JMA’s Workforce Equity Coordinator, Tiqua Gator, in collaboration with Gadsden State Community College, the pre-apprenticeship program aims to foster a diverse workforce in the electric vehicle manufacturing sector.

The pre-apprenticeship program is designed to provide basic training for individuals with no experience or limited experience in the electrical field. While enrolled in the program, pre-apprentices will have the opportunity to earn several nationally recognized certifications. Training also includes life skills, language literacy, math literacy and teamwork techniques.

Our first cohort, consisting of seven participants, has successfully completed the program, earning certifications through Gadsden State Community College and OSHA 10. Notably, one participant was an employee of New Flyer seeking enrollment in NF’s Electrical Apprenticeship program; five participants started paid on-the-job training at New Flyer; and one participant enrolled at Gadsden State pursuing degree in auto repair. 

We are immensely proud of the strides we’ve made, and this is just the beginning. Together, we are shaping pathways to success, fostering inclusivity, and creating opportunities for a brighter tomorrow.