Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, students at Daniel Morgan Technology Center (DMTC) will have access to new hands-on training in advanced manufacturing through the SME (Society of Manufacturing Engineers) PRIME® program, making them the first students in South Carolina to participate in the program’s comprehensive model.
SME PRIME (Partnership Response in Manufacturing Education), connects high school students with the tools, technology, and industry insight needed to succeed in modern manufacturing careers. Guided by input from private industry, the program builds customized manufacturing and engineering pathways that reflect real workforce needs.
Through SME PRIME, DMTC will receive equipment, curriculum resources, educator training, funding for extracurricular activities, and long-term program support. The program aligns with 45 industry-recognized credentials and certifications and prepares students for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing.
“Expanding SME PRIME to Daniel Morgan Technology Center represents another important step in building strong regional manufacturing talent pipelines,” said Rob Luce, Vice President of the SME Education Foundation. “By aligning education with industry needs and providing students with hands-on access to modern manufacturing technologies, we are helping prepare the next generation of skilled talent that manufacturers depend on.”
The expansion of SME PRIME in South Carolina is made possible through the generous support of Spartanburg Academic Movement and OneSpartanburg, Inc., which together worked with Daniel Morgan Technology Center industry partners to help bring this initiative to life. Additional support from Spartanburg School Districts 3 and 7 further strengthened this effort and made this opportunity possible.
“The launch of SME PRIME at Daniel Morgan Technology Center is a significant step forward for both students and the economic vitality of Spartanburg County," said Dr. Russell Booker, Chief Executive Officer of Spartanburg Academic Movement. "By aligning education with the needs of our advanced manufacturing sector, we are creating meaningful pathways for students to graduate with skills, credentials, and purpose. DMTC is setting the standard for how this work can be done across South Carolina by bringing together education, industry, and community to build a stronger, more competitive workforce.”
"Spartanburg's workforce gaps are clear and will only be addressed by equipping and empowering organizations like the DMTC," said Allen Smith, President and CEO of OneSpartanburg, Inc. "We are committed to supporting DMTC today and in the future - people's pathways to real pay are depending on it."
Several industry partners generously donated to the effort, including Contec, Inc., which contributed $50,000.
“For too long our educational focus has been on college attendance only," said Jack McBride, Chief Executive Officer of Contec, Inc. "Projects like SME PRIME give students hands-on exposure to skills which can lead to great careers in manufacturing and other skills-based industries, either with or without a college degree. Given the strength of the manufacturing sector here in South Carolina, this is a key component to developing our future workforce.”
"This milestone would not be possible without the strong commitment of our business and industry partners," said Spartanburg School District Three Superintendent Dr. Julie Fowler. "Their collaboration and investment in programs like SME PRIME help ensure our students graduate with the skills, credentials, and real-world experience needed to succeed on day one. Together, we are building a powerful talent pipeline in Spartanburg County while also helping to break the cycle of generational poverty."
SME PRIME programming was introduced to South Carolina students more than 10 years ago. Since then, SME PRIME programming has grown from individual equipment awards to a comprehensive, tailored program of instruction that includes equipment, materials and supplies, a research-informed curriculum plan, professional development, and support for student engagement.
Daniel Morgan Technology Center is the state’s first school to be awarded the recently developed comprehensive SME PRIME program.
“Launching the SME PRIME program at Daniel Morgan Technology Center is a major step forward for our students and our community. This partnership ensures our students gain access to the skills, technologies and real-world experiences that today’s manufacturing careers demand,” said Dr. Nikki Honeycutt, Director of Daniel Morgan Technology Center and the 2025 CTE Administrator of the Year, as selected by the South Carolina Association for Career and Technical Education. “We are proud to help prepare the next generation of talent that will support South Carolina’s advanced manufacturing sector for years to come through this partnership.”
The SME Education Foundation operates SME PRIME. The foundation is the philanthropic arm of SME, the nonprofit association committed to advancing manufacturing technologies and building North America’s talent pipeline.
Nationwide, SME PRIME now supports 128 schools across 26 states, serving more than 12,000 students. Notably, 91% of seniors in SME PRIME programs pursue manufacturing careers after graduation.
For SME Education Foundation's press release, please click the link below: