IACMI announces partnership with Northland Community & Technical College to establish aerospace composites training hub in Minnesota

Northland will hold its first bootcamp July 13-17 at no cost to participants

THIEF RIVER FALLS, Minn. (May 4, 2026) – Whether you’re exploring a career in advanced manufacturing or looking to strengthen your current skill set, Northland Community & Technical College (Northland) is offering a new opportunity to get hands-on experience in composites manufacturing at no cost. 

Northland is now hosting free, weeklong composites bootcamps through America’s Cutting Edge (ACE), a national workforce training initiative managed by IACMI–The Composites Institute. The bootcamps combine classroom learning with hands-on training using the same equipment and technology found in modern manufacturing facilities. 

Led by industry experts, ACE bootcamps immerse participants in real-world applications of composites manufacturing. Attendees will operate equipment, learn shop safety practices, and gain exposure to advanced materials and processes that are in high demand across aerospace, defense, transportation, and other manufacturing sectors. 

“If you’re in industry, you’ll get access to cutting-edge information to help you achieve better productivity, efficiency or cost-savings,” said Andrew Pokelwaldt, IACMI Director of Workforce and Education. “And if you’ve never heard of composites, this is a great opportunity to see why you should get involved.” 

During the weeklong bootcamp, participants will: 

● Receive an introduction to composite materials and manufacturing 

● Practice shop safety and work with composite manufacturing equipment 

● Build their own composite glider project 

● Participate in industry tours and networking opportunities 

● Earn a digital badge and certificate of completion 

“Northland is pleased to partner with IACMI–The Composites Institute to bring these hands-on composites bootcamps to our region,” said Kirsten Michalke, Dean of Workforce Development and Aerospace Campus at Northland. “Designed for participants ages 16 and older, these free bootcamps are open to high school students, college students, and individuals currently working in industry. They offer a unique opportunity to explore emerging career pathways in composites or expand existing skills in a growing field.” 

Northland’s Inaugural Composites Bootcamp 

July 13–17, 2026 

Location: Northland Community & Technical College, Thief River Falls (Aerospace Campus) 

Enrollment is limited to 15 participants, with spots filled on a first‑come, first‑served basis. 

Register today: www.northlandcollege.edu/wds/bootcamps 

Completion of the ACE Composites in Aerospace online course is a required prerequisite for bootcamp attendance. Registrants will first complete Introduction to Composites before enrolling in Composites in Aerospace. Get started here.