Lockheed Martin’s Manufacturing Basic Skills (MBS) pre-apprenticeship program has been recognized as a Regional Work-Based Learning Best Practice by the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship. The recognition highlights the program’s role in connecting students to careers in aerospace manufacturing.
The MBS program serves as an entry point to Lockheed Martin’s Advanced Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship Program (AMTAP). AMTAP provides training in skills such as cable harness assembly, soldering, and quality inspection, with participants earning industry-recognized certifications. Many graduates are offered full-time positions at Lockheed Martin’s Courtland facility, where they contribute to space and defense projects.
“These programs give students technical training as well as a career pathway,” said Reshondra McInnis, Production Operations Director & Courtland Site Executive. “Our graduates leave with skills, certifications and opportunities that will sustain them for a lifetime.”
Since its inception, AMTAP has established nine formal partnerships with high schools, career technical centers, and community colleges across North Alabama. The program has reached more than 36,000 students and received over $2.2 million in state and federal reimbursements to support training costs. More than 150 graduates from the Alabama initiative have accepted full-time job offers.
“When education and industry align, great things happen,” McInnis said. “The proven success of our MBS and AMTAP programs are proof that Alabama can grow its own world-class aerospace workforce.”
Apprenticeships are becoming more common nationwide. According to data from the U.S. Department of Labor, there were nearly 600,000 active registered apprenticeships in 2021—a 66% increase over the past ten years—and about 94% of apprentices retain employment after completing their programs.
Lockheed Martin’s approach combines classroom instruction with practical experience and collaboration with educational institutions. These efforts aim to prepare skilled workers for advanced manufacturing roles while supporting Alabama's position within the space sector.
Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company focused on innovation and scientific advancement through mission solutions across multiple domains.
