Kadarieh Wiggins

Advanced manufacturing careers combine cutting-edge technology with hands-on problem-solving. As Kadarieh Wiggins discovered, enrolling in an advanced manufacturing training program provides all the essential skills needed for a career that offers opportunities for growth.

“I completed the free Manufacturing Prep Accelerated Program (MPAP) at St. Johns River (SJR) State College, which helped me build foundational skills, technical skills and confidence,” said Wiggins, a CNC machine operator at Marble Today, a nationally recognized manufacturing facility located in Palatka. A locally owned and operated family business, Marble Today fabricates more than 1,000 granite and quartz countertops annually at its production facility in Palatka. As a CNC machine operator, Wiggins is responsible for the setup and operation of two computer numerical control (CNC) stone machinery. He works independently as well as part of a team and relies on analytical thinking and problem solving to complete every job. He appreciates Marble Today’s supportive work environment and the positive feedback he has received from coworkers and supervisors.

“The most rewarding aspect of my job is learning something new every day,” Wiggins said.
Born and raised in Palatka, Wiggins graduated from high school in 2018 and launched a baking business specializing in custom cakes. While the baking business is still thriving, Wiggins needed more job stability and security.

He pursued different jobs including as a Class A Commercial Driver in memory of his beloved brother. None of the jobs were the right fit. It was a challenging time, yet Wiggins remained faithful that things would work out. When he saw a social media post about the MPAP program at SJR State College, which has campuses in Palatka, Orange Park and St. Augustine, he knew it would be a wonderful opportunity.

“I had reached a point in my life where I wanted to go to college and earn a degree,” Wiggins said. “I knew the program would be a great fit for me.”

MPAP at SJR State College is a free, short-term training program that focuses on the core skills and knowledge needed by production workers in advanced manufacturing work environments. MPAP prepares individuals for the Certified Production Technician (CPT) certification, an industry-recognized credential that validates an individual’s skills and knowledge, covering areas such as safety, quality practices and manufacturing processes. The program is designed so that students connect with regional employers and get career assistance. Students who pass the CPT exam earn 15 credits toward an associate’s degree in engineering technology, as well as OSHA 10 and CPR certifications.

“The program gave me experience and has played a key role in preparing me for my current position in manufacturing at Marble Today,” Wiggins said.

Wiggins is enthusiastic about his experiences in the MPAP program and encourages others to enroll.

“Manufacturing is a great career with so many opportunities,” Wiggins said. “I’m focused on learning, growing, and building a long-term career in manufacturing.”

In his free time, Wiggins is a weekend entrepreneur making custom cakes and treats. Find him on Facebook at Kadarieh’s Treats.