Masks program director describes partnership with BRS to connect trainees to manufacturing jobs
June 19, 2026 | Aging and Disability Services, Departments and Agencies, Organizations, Executive, Connecticut
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Kevin Blakely, program director and assistant director of Masks, the Manufacturing Alliance Service Corporation, described a workforce-training partnership with BRS that aims to steer trainees into manufacturing jobs.
Blakely said Masks offers technical instruction in plastic injection molding, CNC machining and tool-and-die work and begins each program with online learning modules so prospective students can sample tracks before committing. "Anybody can learn manufacture and anybody can be helpful and anybody can find a position," he said.
Blakely described flexible program design that lets students emphasize areas that match their strengths. He said Masks will direct students with attention-to-detail skills toward quality-control training to teach what constitutes "a good part," rather than only the basic tasks of entry-level roles.
On outreach, Blakely said Masks coordinates schedules and tour dates with BRS; BRS then notifies its representatives and advocates and refers candidates. He said the partnership often produces quick responses from BRS — typically within 24 hours — and that the candidates sent by BRS are "motivated to make the change" and pursue further education.
Blakely said Masks offers both group tours and private, one-on-one tours for people who prefer more individualized conversations about which trade fits them. He added that the school provides resume-writing and interview-prep services on request, and highlights job-placement opportunities during and after training so graduates can see what roles match their skills.
Graduation events, Blakely said, include representatives from the NRWIB (Northwest Regional Investment Board) who meet with graduates to present available opportunities. Masks also hosts career fairs and maintains advising services to support job searches before and after graduation.
Blakely characterized the relationship with BRS as "an extremely beneficial community environment" that helps people find more technical entry-level positions and offers pathways into manufacturing careers. The presentation did not include formal motions, votes or funding details. The program's next start dates, specific placement rates and any funding sources were not specified.
The presentation consisted solely of Blakely's remarks and a description of Masks' program operations and partnership practices; no formal actions were recorded during the segment.
Blakely said Masks offers technical instruction in plastic injection molding, CNC machining and tool-and-die work and begins each program with online learning modules so prospective students can sample tracks before committing. "Anybody can learn manufacture and anybody can be helpful and anybody can find a position," he said.
Blakely described flexible program design that lets students emphasize areas that match their strengths. He said Masks will direct students with attention-to-detail skills toward quality-control training to teach what constitutes "a good part," rather than only the basic tasks of entry-level roles.
On outreach, Blakely said Masks coordinates schedules and tour dates with BRS; BRS then notifies its representatives and advocates and refers candidates. He said the partnership often produces quick responses from BRS — typically within 24 hours — and that the candidates sent by BRS are "motivated to make the change" and pursue further education.
Blakely said Masks offers both group tours and private, one-on-one tours for people who prefer more individualized conversations about which trade fits them. He added that the school provides resume-writing and interview-prep services on request, and highlights job-placement opportunities during and after training so graduates can see what roles match their skills.
Graduation events, Blakely said, include representatives from the NRWIB (Northwest Regional Investment Board) who meet with graduates to present available opportunities. Masks also hosts career fairs and maintains advising services to support job searches before and after graduation.
Blakely characterized the relationship with BRS as "an extremely beneficial community environment" that helps people find more technical entry-level positions and offers pathways into manufacturing careers. The presentation did not include formal motions, votes or funding details. The program's next start dates, specific placement rates and any funding sources were not specified.
The presentation consisted solely of Blakely's remarks and a description of Masks' program operations and partnership practices; no formal actions were recorded during the segment.
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