Purpose: The development of skills related to Lean Manufacturing (LM) has been a significant concern for higher education institutions (HEIs) that provide courses and programs in industrial engineering and operations management. This paper aims to introduce a novel approach for Lean Practitioner Training Program (LPTP) and verify its effectiveness using Bloom’s taxonomy. Design/methodology/approach: A learning path combining hybrid classrooms, practical sessions, mentoring, and a capstone project was designed and evaluated using a design science research (DSR) approach in a production management course provided by public HEIs in Brazil. Bloom’s taxonomy was utilized to evaluate the proposed program’s effectiveness. Findings: The artifact, designed as a learning path program, seems useful for integrating LPTP into higher education programs. It complements the knowledge provided by regular subjects and develops practical LM skills. Practical implications: The findings of this study may guide and encourage other HEIs to develop university extension programs that aim to bridge the gap between the knowledge disseminated in HEI and labour demand in the context of operational excellence practices. Originality: This paper provides a roadmap for HEIs to provide LPTP through step-by-step guidance on designing, implementing, and evaluating the training of students as lean practitioners through university extension programs.