Mack Technologies Apprentices Named Florida Manufacturing Apprentices of the Year by FloridaMakes

MELBOURNE, FLORIDA – October 22, 2025 – Mack Technologies proudly announces that three employees have received the 2025 Florida Manufacturer Apprentice of the Year Award from FloridaMakes.

The awards honored Bennie Norwood, Linda Willard, and Melissa Perry for advancing the state’s manufacturing sector through technical excellence, leadership, and hands-on development. Developed in collaboration with the Global Electronics Association, Mack’s apprenticeship program combines classroom learning with structured mentorship and credentials aligned to IPC standards, giving participants both technical grounding and real-world experience. Apprentices train across electronics assembly, soldering, testing, and quality assurance.

“As we take on so many challenges here in America, it’s so important that people have the opportunity to work here and around the world, and with the skills you’ve learned in this program, that can happen,” said Florida Representative Mike Haridopolis as he addressed Mack apprentices and others during the MakeMore Manufacturing Summit in Orlando on October 22.

According to the Global Electronics Association’s Current State of Electronics Manufacturing Survey, 63% of firms report talent shortages as a major constraint on growth, with 60% of companies actively hiring. Apprenticeship programs developed in partnership with employers—like the Mack/Global Electronics Association collaboration—are helping close that gap by providing workers with industry-aligned skills and clear career pathways into high-demand roles.

“We are already seeing the real-world impact of these apprenticeship programs at Mack and for the individuals being honored with this award, who are proud to advance their careers,” said Lea Tavani, Director of Human Resources at Mack. “The success of our apprenticeship, in partnership with the Global Electronics Association, shows what’s possible when industry, educators, and workforce partners come together to invest in talent and align with the needs of U.S. manufacturing. Programs like this strengthen our position as a cutting-edge employer — one that attracts and develops exceptional talent to drive innovation in advanced manufacturing.”

The Mack apprentices are part of a growing national movement led by the Global Electronics Association to expand access to registered apprenticeships in advanced manufacturing. The Association’s programs now span multiple occupations, including Electronics Assembler, PCB Fabricator, PCB Design Engineer, and others.  To date, 16 employers across 13 states, including Mack, have adopted IPC’s standards and are actively sponsoring apprenticeships.