The Industrial Manufacturing program at Highland Community College has received a $15,000 Gene Haas Foundation grant to support students enrolled in Computer Numeric Controlled (CNC) classes.
Scholarships will be available for $500 to $2,000, depending on the course the student signs up to study. The student must be enrolled in the CNC program or one of the following classes to qualify:
Classes are:
• CNC Machining
• CNC Mill
• CNC Lathe
• Advanced CNC Machining
Founded in 1999 by the owner of Haas Automation, Inc., the Gene Haas Foundation promotes the pursuit of career and technical education — which results in advancing students’ education and a globally competitive workforce.
“Highland’s CNC program has grown in recent years, and area employers continue to seek qualified CNC machinists,” said Industrial Manufacturing Instructor Aaron Sargent. “We have two certificates and a two-year A.A.S. Degree emphasizing CNC machining.”
Highland students pursuing manufacturing will benefit from refurbished and expanded labs for both CNC and welding. Additionally, the college’s portion of a federal Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grant awarded this spring will infuse more than $1 million into trades-focused programs.
CNC technology guides the cutting tool on machines such as lathes, mills, grinders, waterjets and laser cutters. In general, machinists produce precision parts from a wide variety of materials utilizing these machine tools. Those with the right skills are ready for immediate, in-demand employment.
Instructors are fluent in CNC machine setup and processes, as well as computer-assisted design (CAD). Skills in combination with entry-level knowledge of welding, electronics and automation will prepare students with knowledge for employment in manufacturing facilities utilizing CNC machining or CAD-related work.
For more information on the scholarship, visit highland.edu/scholarships or email Aaron Sargent at aaron.sargent@highland.edu. To learn more about Highland or schedule a tour, visit highland.edu.
Caption: Industrial Manufacturing Instructor Aaron Sargent displays a $15,000 check from the Gene Haas Foundation in Highland Community College’s newly expanded CNC lab.