Contact:
Rudi Pangad
Workforce Program Manager
Workforce Services
Decide DeKalb supports workforce programs that strengthen the county’s talent pipeline, from early exposure in K-12 to hands-on training for career entry. Two key initiatives — MADE in DeKalb and the Industry Ready DeKalb Pre-Apprenticeship Program — work together to equip residents with skills for success in high-demand industries.
Made in DeKalb
MADE in DeKalb is a year-long educator cohort that centers its work on meaningful, ongoing engagement with education professionals across DeKalb County Schools (from elementary through high school) and soon Decatur City Schools. By intentionally connecting educators with workforce leaders and local business owners, MADE helps bridge classroom learning with real-world career opportunities and employer needs. Throughout the year, this network exposes educators to alternative pathways and strategies for introducing students to local talent pipelines that lead to high-quality, in-demand careers right here in DeKalb County. MADE represents Manufacturing, Automation, Distribution, and Emerging industries in DeKalb County.
Key components include:
MADE applications will go live Monday, April 6!
Watch our video on the Toolbelt Generation
Industry Ready DeKalb Pre-Apprenticeship
A Career-Ready Launch for High School Seniors
In partnership with Georgia Piedmont Technical College, the Industry Ready Pre-Apprenticeship offers DeKalb County School District seniors structured training in high-demand manufacturing roles with no cost to students.
The program is designed to:
- Provide clear pathways to careers in manufacturing
- Prepare students to enter the workforce debt-free
- Connect graduates directly with local employers
Industry Engagement
In advance of training, local manufacturers will visit select high schools to share insights and connect with students. During the summer, trainees will participate in company tours and job shadowing.
No-Cost Participation
Training is fully funded by sponsoring manufacturers, giving students a no-cost pathway into a career and, potentially, long-term educational support from employers.
Training Pathways
There are two high-demand training pathways this program will focus on:
Machine Operator
7–8 weeks
Topics:
- Intro to manufacturing
- Industry 4.0
- Forklift training
- OSHA 10
- Fault recognition
Machine Operators in the US had a median pay of between $18.58 and $25.41 per hour in 2022.
Industrial Maintenance Technician
(11–12 weeks)
Topics:
- Mechanical systems
- Safety
- Schematics
- Applied math
- Diagnostics
Industrial Maintenance Technicians had a median pay of $28.59 per hour in 2022.
Program Location & Timeline
Training takes place at Georgia Piedmont Technical College (Clarkston campus) from June 10 to August 23. Upon completion, trainees will interview with participating employers for entry-level roles.
Program Requirements
Current high school senior
18 years old by August 2025
Weekday evening availability (2–3 days/week)
Reliable transportation
No GPA requirement
Application deadline: May 6
Augment Your Workforce
When it comes to augmenting a workforce that’s already rich in talent, our job is as simple as the dots between employers and employees. We know each businesses’ needs are different and work ardently to close niche talent gaps across the county. Decide DeKalb has a dedicated workforce liaison to help businesses find the right path to the right talent—and vice versa as well!
Hiring & Training Services
Through our partnership with WorkSource DeKalb, we can help provide job fairs, applicant screening, labor market insights, on-site interview space, paid internships, apprenticeships, and customized training.
Contact us to learn more about how we can help serve your industry’s needs.
