Advanced Manufacturing

Specialized Mastery

Manufacturing in our region is built on reliability and technical skill. Build A Pro partners with local manufacturers who specialize in essential production, from agricultural equipment and metal fabrication to industrial food processing. As an apprentice, you are employed directly by one of our partner firms. Your training focuses on achieving mastery within your employer’s specific production environment, ensuring you become a highly skilled specialist in the machinery and workflows that drive our local economy.

What You Will Actually Do

Advanced Manufacturing apprentices are active members of the production team from the first week. Your daily tasks are determined by the specific specialization of your employer. You will work alongside experienced operators and technicians to master mechanical skills and quality standards. You could rotate through various production phases within your specialty, including machine operation, metal forming, quality assurance testing, and equipment maintenance.

A Career, Not a Job

Build A Pro apprenticeships are structured between one and five years depending on the level of technical mastery the specific role requires.

• One Year Programs: Designed to equip you as a useful professional craftsman, such as a Production Specialist or Fabrication Technician.
• Three Year Programs: Typically the duration required to secure a Journeyworker certificate as a CNC Machinist or Industrial Maintenance Mechanic.
• Five Year Programs: Reserved for Master level certifications in plant maintenance, specialized tooling, or production leadership.

Each apprenticeship length is pre-decided based on current employer needs. However, your training could be expanded even after the initial program is completed while remaining with the same employer. This allows for a continuous path toward higher certifications and management roles.

Compensation and Earning Potential

Build A Pro is committed to establishing a high professional standard for the manufacturing sector. We utilize regional labor data and specific trade classifications to ensure apprentices receive a fair starting wage that meets state standards while providing a clear path to long term financial stability.

• Average Entry Level: New apprentices in the Central Kansas region typically begin between $17.00 and $19.00 per hour.
• Average Journey Level: Upon earning a trade certification, skilled specialists in the region typically earn between $23.00 and $29.00 per hour.
• Average Master Level: Advanced technicians and those in production leadership roles often exceed $34.00 per hour.

The Strategic Advantage

Manufacturing remains the backbone of the regional economy. As a large portion of the experienced workforce approaches retirement, there is a critical need for a new generation of professionals who understand mechanical systems and production logic.

Our local industries rely on the constant maintenance and optimization of existing equipment. The ability to keep a production line running is a high value skill that ensures manufacturing remains a stable, recession resistant career path. By entering the field now, you are filling a critical labor gap and securing your place in a sector that keeps our community moving.