6 local students accepted into FAME program
Northwest Shoals Community College (NWSCC) has signed 6 Franklin County students to its 2025–26 Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) class.
FAME is a selective workforce- training program that combines paid industry internships with collegelevel training in industrial maintenance and systems technology. Graduates leave with a degree and two years of job experience.
Students attend classes at NWSCC two days a week and work on-site at their sponsoring companies for the other three.
This year’s local students and company sponsors are:
• Javon Poss, Russellville — Nucor
Javan Poss
• Richard Scott, Russellville — Linamar
Richard Scott
• Braden Ashley, Russellville — Tarkett
• Cale Faust, Phil Campbell — Constellium
• Justice Welborn, Phil Campbell — Tarkett
• Brantley Holland, Red Bay — Project XYZ Russellville High School engineering instructor Gabe Willis said the program is a perfect fit for students who prefer hands-on work.
“These kids are the cream of the crop,” Willis said. “It’s awesome to see kids go straight into the workforce while still getting their coursework.”
He described Scott as a hardworking athlete and referee for Parks and Recreation. Poss, he said, was also an athlete with a strong work ethic.
Scott said he chose FAME because it offers both college and job training.
“It’s a way to go to work and still earn a degree, which I’ve always wanted to do,” he said.
He thanked RHS counselor Alissa Moore for helping him apply.
Willis praised Ashley’s natural skill in Computer Assist Design (CAD) and his ability to figure things out quickly.
Ashley said he was “ecstatic and super grateful” to be selected for the FAME program.
“I’m excited about tackling real challenges and learning how everything works in this field,” he said.
WeldinginstructorAaron Paden said Poss stood out as being respectful and mature.
“Javon always struck me as a young man who already had it all together,” he said. “The FAME program will give him a jumpstart in the right direction.”
Poss said FAME was a great alternative to the traditional college path.
“If there are any students like me that know traditional college isn’t for them, FAME is a great way to get started,” he said.
Phil Campbell High School student Cale Faust was matched with Constellium. Principal Bart Moss said Faust is a polite young man who will work hard.
“Anytime a student gets an opportunity like this, it’s up to them to make the most of it,” Moss said. “Students should always seek out ways to stand out from their peers.”
Jonathan King, career technical director for Franklin County Schools, said the FAME program is highly competitive.
“Students are chosen based on applications and interviews, where local companies select candidates they believe will be strong employees,” he said. “It speaks highly of their work ethic and potential.”
King said Franklin County has had at least one student accepted each of the past four years.
“FAME students are usually hands-on learners with strong leadership qualities,” he added. “The program can be lifechanging. It sets them up with a free education and a career in a high-demand field.”
