Bendix Generously Contributes $5,000 to Support SKYCTC's Work and Learn Program, SKY FAME

Photo from left to right: Tyler Russell Human Resources Manager, Brett Barrett Engineering Director, Martin Michajlec KPS Manager, Kelcie Richart Campus Director SKYCTC Franklin-Simpson Center, Anthony Davis Automation Specialist 2019 SKY FAME Graduate, Evan Barnwell Finance Lead, Dylan Fitzhugh Maintenance Support First-Year SKY FAME Student, Mark Hays Maintenance Superintendent, Alberto Hernandez Quality Manager, Rebecca Maxwell HSE Manager, Jason Jones Operations Manager, Kaylah Hadden SKYCTC Success Coach 

FRANKLIN, KY (February 8, 2024) - Bendix, a prominent manufacturer based in Bowling Green, KY, specializes in producing advanced safety technologies for commercial vehicles. Renowned for its commitment to innovation and quality, the facility plays a crucial role in elevating global commercial vehicle safety standards. Through a dedicated focus on cutting-edge research and development, Bendix consistently sets industry benchmarks for excellence in commercial vehicle technology.

Bendix has recently donated $5,000 to contribute to the Southcentral Kentucky Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education's (SKY FAME) endowment campaign in line with their commitment to community support. This donation ensures that students have access to the necessary resources to excel as globally competitive advanced maintenance technicians (AMTs) trained at the Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College's (SKYCTC) Franklin-Simpson Center.

SKY FAME is a selective, work-and-learn admissions program designed to educate Advanced Manufacturing Technicians (AMTs). Students attend classes at the SKYCTC Franklin-Simpson Center two days per week and work at least 24 hours per week at a sponsoring manufacturer – all while being paid a competitive wage. AMTs study a diverse technical skill set, including electricity, robotics, fluid power, mechanics, fabrication, industrial troubleshooting, and more. After five semesters, students earn an Associate Degree in Industrial Maintenance Technology (Advanced Manufacturing Technician) and accumulate over 1,800 hours of on-the-job work experience.

"As Engineering Director at Bendix, I am thrilled to announce our $5,000 donation to the SKYFAME program. This initiative is not just an investment in education; it's a testament to our commitment to advancing manufacturing. As our manufacturing processes evolve, SKYFAME stands as a crucial long-term partner, ensuring our workforce stays ahead with the cutting-edge skills needed to maintain our competitive edge in the industry,” noted Bendix Engineering Director Brett Barrett  

Kelcie Richart, the Franklin-Simpson Center Campus Director at SKYCTC, conveyed genuine appreciation to Bendix for entrusting their program to enhance the skills of Bendix's incumbent employees. Richart emphasized the enduring impact of Bendix's donation, stressing that it will continue to support the ongoing training of students for years ahead. We are seeing tremendous growth in our area, and our program is one large step to the talent pipeline for advanced maintenance technicians. 

To learn more about SKY FAME, contact Franklin-Simpson Center Campus Director Kelcie Richart at kelcie.richart@kctcs.edu or Franklin-Simpson Center Success Coach Kaylah Hadden at kaylah.hadden@kctcs.edu.