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Go Topeka to launch FAMEUSA apprenticeship chapter targeting advanced manufacturing technicians in 2026
Summary
Go Topeka reported plans to establish a FAMEUSA chapter, a nationally recognized advanced-manufacturing apprenticeship model, with Washburn Tech as the education partner and seven employers committed. The first cohort is planned for fall 2026; cohorts run five semesters and combine paid work and classroom time.
Go Topeka staff told the JADA board on May 14 they plan to launch a FAMEUSA chapter in Topeka to train advanced manufacturing technicians through a paid work-study apprenticeship model.
Staff described FAMEUSA as a program that combines technical coursework with workplace experience and professional skills training. Under the proposed Topeka chapter, students would work for sponsoring employers three days per week and attend school two days per week to form a 40-hour week; the five-semester program would yield a FAME certificate, an associate degree and a registered apprenticeship credential.
Staff said seven employers have committed to sponsor students and that the chapter’s goal is to reach 10 employer partners. Washburn Tech has agreed to serve as the education partner provided a minimum enrollment threshold (10 students) is met. The program will recruit high school seniors (with application and selection in the spring of the senior year) and permit nontraditional applicants where slots remain. Go Topeka said the first cohort is planned for fall 2026 and cohorts typically have a maximum of 20 students and average about 15.
Kansas Workforce 1 and other partners will provide funding and support, staff said. Go Topeka representatives said the program addresses employer demand for industrial maintenance and other technician skills and aims to reduce barriers to entry by combining paid employment with education; board members expressed support for the initiative. No formal board action was required at the meeting.
