ACE began as a free online course in computer numerical control machining in partnership with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and has since expanded to 11 online courses and more than 40 training sites nationwide. The program combines online instruction with hands-on training to help participants develop practical skills for operating modern manufacturing equipment.

Participants include students, as well as current industry workers seeking to upskill. According to IACMI, nearly half of participants come from colleges or universities, while working professionals also make up a significant portion of enrollees.

“When we launched ACE, we saw a surge of people, including students, career changers and incumbent workers, ready to build skills, alongside an industry that urgently needs talent and is eager to engage,” said Justin Brooks, IACMI deputy director of Workforce Development. “ACE’s growth reflects a real appetite to advance modern manufacturing. That’s the foundation for rebuilding America’s industrial strength, and we’re proud to help drive it.” 

The program’s growth comes as manufacturers continue to face workforce shortages and increasing demand for skilled labor. The milestone also follows IACMI’s launch of the “Make it in America” outreach campaign in late 2025, which promotes manufacturing careers and highlights workforce programs such as ACE and the Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeships & Learning initiative focused on casting and forging.