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Other CME Initiatives and Partnerships
Building partnerships is an integral part of the CME. The establishment of partnerships and initiatives with the manufacturing community, particularly individuals, organizations and businesses associated with Toyota, is critical to the long-term sustainable growth of the manufacturing industry in Mississippi. The CME is not duplicating other state initiatives but is working to enhance the overall economic initiatives of the state. Several unique initiatives and partnerships in conjunction with the CME are in various stages of development, including
K-12 Partnerships
The CME and The University of Mississippi are developing partnerships with high schools, middle schools and elementary schools throughout the state. Through these partnerships, the CME will provide school administrators, families and students with resources to inform K-12 students about opportunities in the manufacturing industry. The CME also is working with the School of Education to support the development of teacher-centered and curriculum-based programs aimed at training and developing teachers and strengthening their academic foundation in fields related to manufacturing and engineering. Moreover, the CME is working closely with the UM Center for Mathematics and Science Education—a privately funded center at the university whose primary mission is to work with local, state and federal agencies to develop a comprehensive program to improve mathematics and science education in Mississippi. Professional-development programs for math and science teachers are a major part of this initiative.
Economic Development/State Agency Partnerships
The CME is actively pursuing opportunities to serve in a leadership role in economic development as it relates to the manufacturing industry. The CME is partnering with state agencies to further enhance its involvement in relevant statewide initiatives.
National Association Partnerships
The CME is working with national associations in manufacturing to develop programs that assist in advertising and advancing manufacturing programs for the public and is developing educational programs especially in the K-12 and undergraduate education areas. The CME also is working with national associations to offer assistance in establishing manufacturing policy statements.
University/Research Collaboration
The CME is working cooperatively with other universities to improve manufacturing education through the shared development of areas such as course work and sabbatical leave exchanges. In addition, the CME is working closely with the director of the UM Research Park and incubator to better align resources and enhance the university’s overall research, tech-transfer and start-up company development efforts.
CME Outreach, Training and Extension Services
An outreach program facilitated by the CME’s staff will go to industries in Mississippi and offer the CME’s help and resources in improving their manufacturing/business operations. This extension service program will help Mississippi industries learn and take advantage of the various activities offered by the CME. Lines of communication are being developed with companies throughout Mississippi and the southeast region.