News and Awards
Project MFG’s innovative approach to manufacturing workforce development has garnered national media attention for its measurable impact on technical education and industry alignment.
In the News
The Tribune – August 5, 2025
“EvCC was one of four colleges from across North America vying for a $100,000 prize and the national title in advanced manufacturing. They faced technical challenges in machining and 3D printing, working against the clock to manufacture parts that meet exacting specifications.”
Featured article highlighting Everett Community College’s path to the National Championship and highlights their feature in Project MFG’s Clash of Trades.
The New York Times – August 4, 2025
“Project MFG’s Clash of Trades uses sports-style competitions, big financial prizes and an addiction to reality TV to boost the appeal of the skilled trades as American manufacturers consistently say one of their top challenges is finding capable workers.”
Featured coverage highlighting how our competition-driven education model is transforming technical programs nationwide and creating pathways to rewarding manufacturing careers.
IMTS – August 08, 2023
“The element of competition mimicked the pressure on a real shop floor. You make decisions based on your knowledge and your instincts, and you run with them — much like you do in the real world. This competition was exciting because it is realistic.”
Featured coverage “Fight for the Future: Clash of Trades by Project MFG” by Catherine Ross Highlighted the excitement of thecompetition and was an opportunity to showcase the skills the students developed in technical school.
The Welder Magazine – June 16, 2021
“Creating prestige around skilled trades with YouTube competition series, Ray Dick of Project MFG discusses the National Skilled Trade Challenge, YouTube series, and the state of U.S. manufacturing.“
Featured Article in The WELDER magazine discussed Project MFG’s competition, how COVID-19 forced organizers to regroup and retool, and why the healthy growth of manufacturing should be top of mind for everyone.
Awards
Viddy Awards – December, 2023
The goal of the Viddy Awards is to identify and recognize the video artisans who excel in the scope of theirown environment. Winners are selected from hundreds of categories under the headings of Non-Broadcast, Broadcast/Cable/Subscription TV, Commercials, Pro Bono, and Achievement. The Platinum Award is awarded to those projects that the judges deemare written, produced, shot and/or edited in an exceptional manner. The Gold Award is
awarded for projects that exceed industry standards
Webby Awards – December, 2023
The Webby Awards have been honoring
“The Best Of The Internet” since 1997. The award celebrates the original digital or streaming video or film content dedicated to the presentation or documentation of variety show, reality, or unscripted content. This includes online talk shows, interviews, special editions, and programming that is generally unscripted in nature.