Ferrero supports Advanced Manufacturing students

Heartland Community College has received a donation to support students in Advanced Manufacturing training programs. 

Ferrero has announced a donation of $10,000 to support student space in Heartland’s new Advanced Manufacturing Center. 

Opened in January of 2024, Heartland’s 45,000 square foot Advanced Manufacturing Center supports  advanced manufacturing training and instruction, with programs ranging from Industrial Maintenance to Electric Vehicle technology. 

The gift builds on the company’s partnership with the college -- a Heartland apprenticeship program currently trains Ferrero employees to be certified maintenance technicians. 

“We are greatly appreciative of this investment by Ferrero in our Heartland students, and the partnership we have been able to forge with this important stakeholder in our community. Companies such as Ferrero are driving our local economy and bringing more employment opportunity to the community,” said Heartland Community College President Keith Cornille. “As our community partners will tell you, the modern manufacturing workforce requires specialized skill training. Our Advanced Manufacturing Center supports degree-oriented and short-term programs in vital Career Technical Education areas. Partnerships with business leaders such as Ferrero are vital to developing talent and maintaining the workforce pipeline.” 

Ferrero supports student apprentices in the Heartland Industrial Maintenance Mechanic program. The program, which is registered with the Department of Labor, prepares individuals for the workforce with certifications in Automation Technology and Robotics Operator Technology. Industrial Maintenance Technicians are critical to ensure the smooth and reliable operation of the industrial plants and equipment in their industry. 

Manufacturing in McLean County, the center of Heartland’s service area, generates $2 billion in total annual economic output and supports over 7,000 jobs. On the state level, Illinois has more than 15,000 manufacturers that employ 750,000 individuals. 

Heartland offers over 20 “work ready” manufacturing or industrial support programs including Applied Associate of Science degrees and Certificates designed to prepare individuals with the skills and competencies necessary for a variety of successful career options.