SME PRIME®
SME PRIME® (Partnership Response In Manufacturing Education) is a signature program of the SME Education Foundation established in 2011. It is designed to build partnerships between private industry and academia to develop custom manufacturing and engineering programs in high schools across the United States. The initiative provides schools with equipment, curriculum, teacher training, and student scholarships along with funding for manufacturing-related extracurricular activities and program sustainability.
INVEST School of Engineering & SME PRIME®
The INVEST School of Engineering, in partnership with the SME Education Foundation, SME PRIME is revolutionizing engineering education by bridging the gap between academia and industry. Our mission is to develop technically proficient engineers equipped with real-world skills that match the evolving demands of the manufacturing sector. Through access to cutting-edge equipment, specialized training, and mentorship opportunities, we foster creativity, critical thinking, and innovation in our students. Join us in shaping a future where our graduates are ready to tackle tomorrow's challenges with confidence and skill.
Why Partner with SME PRIME®
522,000 manufacturing jobs are currently unfilled, according to the National Association of Manufacturers. This skills gap could lead to 2.4 million manufacturing jobs going unfilled by 2028, resulting in a $2.5 trillion negative economic impact.
SME PRIME is working to address this critical issue in manufacturing education through a partnership approach. SME PRIME:
- Builds manufacturing and engineering programs inside high schools across the country
- Is informed by local manufacturers within the community
- Tailors programs to meet the needs of local industry
- Operates in 111 schools across 23 states
- Serves 10,000 students annually
With SME PRIME schools in states across the U.S., this initiative is taking a proactive approach to prepare students for successful careers in manufacturing and engineering, helping fill the skills gap and avoid the potential negative economic consequences of millions of jobs going unfilled.
IMPACT | SME PRIME®
SME PRIME is making a profound impact on students, schools, and communities across the country. By providing students with early exposure to manufacturing and engineering careers, SME PRIME is:
- Increasing student engagement and achievement in STEM subjects
- Empowering students with the skills and knowledge to pursue high-demand, rewarding careers
- Enhancing the reputation and relevance of manufacturing and engineering programs in high schools
- Strengthening connections between schools and local industry, creating pathways to career opportunities
- Driving economic growth and competitiveness in communities nationwide
Through its work, SME PRIME is not only transforming the lives of individual students, but also contributing to the vitality and resilience of manufacturing communities across the country. By investing in the next generation of talent, SME PRIME is helping to secure a bright future for the manufacturing industry and our nation as a whole.
SME PRIME® at INVEST Centers
SME PRIME has allowed INVEST students to gain real-world skills and experiences in manufacturing and engineering. Through SME PRIME, students can access tailored curriculum, hands-on training, and career readiness programs.
To learn more about how to get involved and support SME PRIME and the SME Education Foundation, click here.
At the heart of INVEST lies our Community Center!
The INVEST Community Center isn’t just a place; it's a living, breathing part of our commitment to building a stronger, more connected future. It’s where potential is nurtured, and dreams are set in motion.
