Apple has launched its new virtual programming on the Apple Manufacturing Academy with a focus on small- and medium-sized businesses across the United States. The iPhone maker said that the objective is to accelerate the ability of businesses to innovate and adopt advanced technologies.
What"s nice for the target businesses is that the new virtual programming is totally free to access. Apple said it reflects its commitment to strengthening the US advanced manufacturing sector and is part of its plan to invest $600 billion in the US economy over the next four years.
In August, Apple announced a new $100 billion pledge, making up part of the total $600 billion investment in the US. The investment comes as President Trump is pushing for more manufacturing to be moved to the US.
“At Apple, we believe in the power of American ingenuity, and we’re proud to be delivering even more options to support small- and medium-sized companies across the country,” said Sabih Khan, Apple’s chief operating officer. “By bringing the Apple Manufacturing Academy curriculum online, we’re opening the door for even more businesses and workers to build cutting-edge expertise, helping fuel U.S. competitiveness and support the growth of advanced manufacturing nationwide.”
The new online courses cover a wide range of topics focused on advanced manufacturing and professional development. Technical areas include Automation, Predictive Maintenance, Quality Control Optimization, Machine Learning with Vision, and professional development includes Communication and presentation skills.
The virtual expansion builds on the in-person program, which launched in Detroit in August in partnership with Michigan State University (MSU). So far, it has already provided hands-on training and consultation to more than 80 businesses across Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, and Utah. Apple and MSU worked together on the virtual content, too.
Businesses that want to enroll or learn more about the offering can visit the official Apple Manufacturing Academy website.