As manufacturing technology continues to evolve, the demand for workers with advanced technical skills is growing. Penn State College of Engineering’s Certified Microcredentials program helps fill the gap through flexible, industry-focused training delivered on a schedule and platform that works for employers and their team members.

The program offers four-week online manufacturing-focused courses that combine self-paced learning with live instruction from Penn State faculty and industry experts, designed to be robust and effective without disrupting work schedules.

One of the program’s greatest benefits is its career-focused approach. Participants gain knowledge they can apply immediately in areas like automation, robotics, additive manufacturing and data analytics. Courses are worthwhile for both individuals just entering the manufacturing industry and for experienced employees who want to gain new or updated skills. Manufacturers also find the program valuable for onboarding new employees.

Microcredential courses allow for flexibility to study from anywhere and require just a few hours each week. As an added benefit, Penn State facilitates networking opportunities that connect participants with employers looking for skilled manufacturing talent.

Don’t Miss this Fall 2026 Opportunity: Robotics in Manufacturing

The Robotics in Manufacturing Microcredential Series provides a pathway for upskilling current employees for advanced manufacturing roles. As automation and robotics transform manufacturing, investing in these areas of workforce development is critical.

These online, instructor-led short courses feature hands-on digital twin simulations and allow learners to build practical robotics skills they can apply on the manufacturing floor.

The series includes:

• Fundamentals of Robotics for Manufacturing: 9/4-10/4
• Electrical Systems & Controls in Robotics: 10/2-11/1
• Maintenance & Troubleshooting for Robotics: 10/30-11/29

Courses are delivered online over four weeks and require approximately 3-5 hours/week to complete, an ideal professional development option for working technicians, operators, maintenance personnel and manufacturing engineers. Participants earn a Penn State digital badge and continuing education credits upon completion. Organizations interested in training multiple employees can take advantage of cohort discounts.

Complete the form online or contact microcredetial@engr.psu.edu for more information.