TechAMP Lands in the Berkshires

This September, the Berkshire Innovation Center will launch a new education initiative in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. We are proud to introduce the Technologist Advanced Manufacturing Program—TechAMP—to the Berkshires.

TechAMP is a 12-month certificate curriculum designed by MIT’s LEAP Group, funded through the U.S. Department of Defense, to train experienced technicians and operators (those with 3+ years of experience) to become “technologists”—professionals who can bridge the gap between shop-floor work and engineering decision-making. The curriculum blends online lectures, interactive simulations, and hands-on labs, enabling participants to apply lean and statistical analysis, design of experiments, and process optimization in real-world manufacturing environments.

A standout feature of TechAMP is its hub-and-spoke curriculum structure. The central “hub” includes four core modules covering the foundational “why” of manufacturing—process, systems, supply, and people—drawing on systems thinking and proven frameworks. Surrounding the hub are eight elective “spoke” modules—such as mechatronics, , digital manufacturing, design & manufacturing fundamentals along with CNC machining—that teach the “how-to” skills needed to apply advanced technologies. These spoke modules were developed in consultation with defense-connected firms across New England to ensure relevance to current industry needs.

This exciting development builds directly on the work we began in 2023 with the BIC Manufacturing Academy, a regional training program launched in partnership with MIT that has now graduated four cohorts of students. While the Manufacturing Academy’s core program – the STAT Program (Systems Thinking for the Application of Technology) – focuses on systems thinking, communication, and problem-solving for frontline workers and technicians, TechAMP is designed for early-career professionals who are ready to lead technical innovation at the intersection of design, production, and process improvement. Together, they create a powerful and complementary training pipeline. We anticipate that some firms will nominate outstanding STAT Program graduates for the new TechAMP certification.

Both initiatives are led locally by Dr. Dennis Rebelo, the BIC’s Chief Learning Officer and architect of our education programs. “We’ve designed these programs to meet learners where they are,” says Dr. Rebelo. “In the STAT Program, that means helping frontline workers develop systems thinking and apply it to real firm-level challenges while building human skills. With TechAMP, we’re continuing that journey—targeting early-career technical professionals who are ready for growth through applied leadership training, communication development, and innovation skills essential for thriving in a rapidly evolving technical landscape.”

MIT’s goal with TechAMP is to prepare what it calls “future shop floor leaders”—technologists who can connect R&D and operations, navigate both the technical and human dimensions of production, and lead cross-functional teams. These individuals are increasingly essential as manufacturing embraces digital transformation, sustainability, and automation.

And now, thanks to this partnership, these leaders can be trained right here in the Berkshires. Participants in our local TechAMP cohort will work with MIT curriculum, local mentors, and industry sponsors to develop technical leadership skills without having to leave the county or pause their careers.

Our region’s innovation story is not new. Pittsfield has long been a leader in systems thinking and manufacturing quality—dating back to the 1960s, when Armand and Donald Feigenbaum developed the principles of Total Quality Management right here in the city. Their work shaped global industry. In many ways, our efforts today are a continuation of that legacy—equipping the next generation with the tools and mindsets needed to lead.

We’re deeply grateful to MIT and to the many partners, companies, and instructors who are shaping these programs alongside us.  There are a limited number of seats still remaining in the fall 2025 TechAMP cohort and we invite individuals, employers, and community stakeholders to learn more by visiting our website or emailing us at hello@the-bic.org.

The future of advanced manufacturing will be built in regions that invest in talent and innovation. With the STAT Program and TechAMP working in tandem, that future is already taking shape in the Berkshires. The word is out—The Berkshire Innovation Center is stepping up to deliver applied training to the companies and individuals who make our community such a great place to live and work. The only question now is: who from your workplace will join us next? Maybe it will even be you.