For Milan E., the road to a career in manufacturing started with a simple sign. After working as a Lyft driver for two years and as an asbestos removal specialist, she was looking for a stable and fulfilling career. One day, outside the Homewood YMCA, she noticed a sign advertising New Century Careers’ MANUFACTURING 2000 (M2K) program. Intrigued by the opportunity to develop hands-on skills in a high-demand industry, she decided to take the leap.
In December 2024, Milan joined the M2K program. With a natural interest in design work, hands-on problem-solving, and mathematics, she found the training both engaging and rewarding. While she gained fundamental skills in measurement tools, blueprint reading, and entry-level manual machining, her favorite part of the program was the CNC introductory lectures.
Reflecting on her experience, Milan emphasized the value of M2K for those seeking a career change: “You can get a skilled trade quickly for free in a high-demand field.”
Her advice to future students:
“Be prepared, take it seriously, be attentive, and be willing to learn from everyone.”
Now, Milan is preparing for her future in the manufacturing industry at Re:Build Manufacturing as a level 1 CNC machinist, equipped with the skills and confidence to succeed. She describes the program as “very enjoyable, with a good structure,” and is grateful for the solid foundation it provided her.
Milan’s story is a testament to the opportunities that M2K offers—turning curiosity into career success.
