SparkForce, The FMA Foundation

SparkForce, The FMA Foundation Through its manufacturing summer camps and scholarships, SparkForce is inspiring the next generation of manufacturers, inventors and entrepreneurs.

Since 1990, SparkForce (formerly Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs), has awarded scholarships to students majoring in programs that lead to careers in manufacturing. Scholarships are awarded twice a year, in the Spring and Fall. NBT also awards grants annually to trade schools and community or technical colleges capable of hosting a summer camp program for girls and/or boys ages 12-16. Summer camps have

been a successful way of introducing middle- and high-school students to the fascinating, high-tech career choices available to them in today’s automated manufacturing industry.

It’s one thing to learn about manufacturing. It’s another to experience it firsthand.At Miami University's SparkForce ca...
09/01/2026

It’s one thing to learn about manufacturing. It’s another to experience it firsthand.

At Miami University's SparkForce camp this summer, students explored manufacturing through hands-on technology, collaborative problem-solving, and behind-the-scenes visits to local manufacturing facilities.

📸 Check out the highlights!

An introduction to modern metal fabrication can change how a student sees their future.At one Chicago-area SparkForce Ca...
08/27/2026

An introduction to modern metal fabrication can change how a student sees their future.

At one Chicago-area SparkForce Camp, students started the week with little to no fabrication experience. By the end, they understood how a digital design could become a real, fabricated part.

Read the story in The Fabricator. 👇

Gakuto Club

At a SparkForce manufacturing summer camp hosted by Gakuto Club, students ages 13 to 16 use Fusion 360, laser cutting, and press brakes to explore modern metal fabrication careers.

08/27/2026
08/26/2026

|I know some kids that can weld better than most adults. This summer STEM welding camp was off the hook!|

Yesterday at Bolingbrook Golf Club, the industry came together for GOLF4MFG — a day filled with connection, competition,...
08/25/2026

Yesterday at Bolingbrook Golf Club, the industry came together for GOLF4MFG — a day filled with connection, competition, and fun to support the next generation of manufacturing.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, sponsored, volunteered, and helped make the day a success! 👏

Take a look at a few highlights and share your favorite moments below.

Every new skill opens the door to what might come next. This summer camp season, over 5,000 students learned new skills ...
08/19/2026

Every new skill opens the door to what might come next.

This summer camp season, over 5,000 students learned new skills that could lead to a future in manufacturing. 👏

In 2025, SparkForce scholarships helped 111 students take the next step toward careers in manufacturing, supporting the ...
08/17/2026

In 2025, SparkForce scholarships helped 111 students take the next step toward careers in manufacturing, supporting the talent and skills our industry will need for years to come.

Learn more in the 2025 Annual Report.
🔗 https://ow.ly/wM5K50ZqTvf

There isn’t just one way to start a career in manufacturing. At Shickel Corp., new employees begin at the end of the pro...
08/11/2026

There isn’t just one way to start a career in manufacturing. At Shickel Corp., new employees begin at the end of the process, learning metal finishing before moving into welding and fabrication roles.

Find out why in The Fabricator. 👇

Shickel Corp. explains why starting new employees in polishing builds stronger welders, fabricators, and a culture focused on quality.

Building Giants Submarine Camps connect students with hands-on manufacturing experiences and a closer look at the skills...
08/10/2026

Building Giants Submarine Camps connect students with hands-on manufacturing experiences and a closer look at the skills and careers behind some of the world's most advanced technologies.

In partnership with Build Submarines, we're inspiring the next generation to dream big and build what's next. ⚓

Discover the impact of Building Giants and more in the 2025 Annual Report.
🔗 https://ow.ly/AuTA50ZqToJ

Address

2135 Point Boulevard
Elgin, IL
60123

Telephone

+18883944362

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