The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) celebrated the completion of the 19th cohort of the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program on Oct. 7, 2025. The ceremony honored 20 adult learners who completed intensive training in Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), a critical skill set for ensuring the integrity and safety of components within the defense manufacturing sector.

Each completer finished more than 600 hours of hands-on instruction, earning industry-recognized credentials that prepare them for immediate employment within the Maritime Industrial Base (MIB). The NDT track equips students with specialized techniques to evaluate materials and structures without causing damage.

Student speaker Emery Harris reflected on the transformative nature of the program:

“I wanted a career that challenged me in new ways and gave me skills that really mattered. And that’s what brought me to ATDM,” Harris said. “ATDM has been more than just a training program. It’s been a launchpad. It’s given me the tools, the confidence and the direction that I was looking for.” 

Jason Wells, Executive Vice President of Manufacturing Advancement, commended the graduates for their commitment and emphasized the broader impact of their achievement:

“This program is unlike anything else in the country. What these graduates have accomplished is extraordinary—not just in skill, but in resilience. Today, we don’t just recognize them as graduates; we honor them as skilled tradespeople whose work will quietly but powerfully shape the safety, strength and future of our nation. ATDM is more than training—it’s about restoring hope, building possibility and renewing the American dream.” — Jason Wells, Executive Vice President of Manufacturing Advancement

Graduates of the Non-Destructive Testing – 1st Shift

  • Michael Bowen – LA
  • Michelle Cruz – GA
  • Michael D’Angiolillo – NC
  • Termika Dawkins – SC
  • Casey Draper – VA
  • Corey Hall – MA
  • Thomas Hardin – PA
  • Emery Harris, Jr. – GA
  • Josiah Harris – MA
  • Isaac Hepler – PA
  • Caleb Jackson – GA
  • Greer Jones – VA
  • Caylee Kiley – PA
  • Jacob Krapf – MI
  • Benjamin Lolli – VA
  • Matthew Lyons – PA
  • Morgan McDaniel – FL
  • Dominic Muranyi – FL
  • Christian Rojas-Bartlett – CA
  • Sean Suknaich – OH

Participants in the ATDM program benefit from comprehensive scholarships covering tuition and housing. This support enables individuals from diverse backgrounds—including transitioning service members, career changers and industry newcomers—to thrive.

With a goal of training over 800 students annually, ATDM remains a cornerstone initiative in strengthening the U.S. defense manufacturing workforce.

About ATDM

The Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing program provides focused, industry-driven training to equip participants with skills critical for defense manufacturing. This initiative is funded through the National Imperative for Industrial Skills by the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment Program Office within the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment.

About the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation with applied research, advanced learning, manufacturing advancement, conference center services and economic development efforts. IALR’s major footprint focuses within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville. The organization houses and leads the ATDM program with the support of various partners.