The UMA Foundation

The UMA Foundation

by Megan Ware & Martin Moore, Workplace Development Team

UMA is pleased that 2022 brought the creation of the UMA Foundation a 501(c)(3). Megan Ware will serve as the Executive Director, with a board of directors that include Partners from industry, education, private sector finance, and governmental affairs.

The purpose of the foundation will be, in part, to be the clearing house for programming like the apprenticeship programs, manufacturing outreach specifically targeting K-12, MFG Day activities and much much more. The UMA Foundation will strive to be the leading voice in Utah for manufacturing education. As the philanthropic arm of UMA we are committed to developing and supporting powerful programs and resources which further the advancement of young people entering the manufacturing workforce.

When manufacturers work with middle and high schools to expose young people to manufacturing, it opens the door to a better understanding of the world in which we live and gives spark to the creative spirit. Creating a foundation helps ensure that we can continue to have a direct impact on the future of manufacturing in Utah by training a strong and viable workforce for years to come.

Other initiatives that are a part of the long term vision of the UMA Foundation include:

• Intermediary for manufacturing youth apprenticeship programs

• Supporting career exploration experiences for students K-12

• Offering summer internships for educators in industry that will keep education and industry connected and united

• Providing scholarships for students pursuing manufacturing related careers

• Advocating for policy that supports students enrolled in career and technical education programs

• Leading efforts to implement manufacturing workforce pipeline strategies through private, state, and federal grant opportunities

As we move forward with initiatives within the foundation, we will be seeking a variety of funding opportunities including private, state, and federal grants, estate planning giving, and corporate giving. These fundraising opportunities will be ongoing and allow us to reach students across the state and spread a positive message about what manufacturing is and how it can be an amazing career opportunity.

The UMA Foundation is currently solidifying our messaging and branding. Look for exciting opportunities and a large scale roll out toward the end of the first quarter of 2023. We are thrilled that this will allow us to expand the reach of UMA and focus on opening the dialogue for manufacturing to our youth.