C2D mission statement
The engineering design and manufacturing landscape is undergoing a major transformation driven by Industry 4.0 — characterized by the digitization of data, machine learning, advanced processes, automation and interconnected devices. Building an advanced manufacturing workforce to meet the demands of Industry 4.0 is critical to a defense-oriented industrial strategy, one that requires bold, innovative solutions for complex systems.
In today’s manufacturing sector, for every role requiring a master’s degree or higher, there are two that need a four-year degree, and seven that call for a one-year certificate or a two-year associate degree. To meet this demand, STEM education is expanding beyond traditional engineering and science programs. This includes a growing focus on the skilled technical workforce, which requires strong technical expertise but not necessarily a bachelor’s degree, as well as vital contributions from community colleges and two-year institutions.
Certification to Degree aims to bridge this gap by combining hands-on training with immersive XR, or Extended Reality, technology to prepare the next generation of manufacturing professionals. Our programs will prioritize outreach to underrepresented minorities and U.S. veterans, helping to build a more inclusive and capable workforce.
