Workforce Development & Training

Ann Wyatt joins students on the AUTOMATE 2026 show floor to explore robotics, hands-on learning and the possibilities in manufacturing.

Regardless of the industry being served, effective worker training is critical to a part manufacturer’s success. Horst Engineering’s core focus is producing aerospace and defense parts, but states that precision machined components are just as essential to many high technology industries, including power generation.

Now in its fourth year, the Big Daishowa Tools for Schools program continues to invest in the next generation of manufacturers. This year, the program awarded tooling certificates totaling $51,000 to technical schools selected by Big Daishowa customers. This brings the program’s cumulative impact to nearly $120,000 in donated tooling certificates.

Communities throughout the U.S. have a new-found interest in U.S. manufacturing. To nurture this epiphany, however, we in the industry must take action.

Manufacturers must close widening skills gaps through automation, structured training and global knowledge-sharing to build a stronger 2026 workforce.

Despite tariffs, labor shortages and tech gaps, manufacturers see renewed optimism—driven by automation, training, reshoring efforts and strong 2026 demand.

Apple has expanded its Apple Manufacturing Academy with new virtual programming. The manufacturing training was created for small- and medium-sized businesses across the country that want to "accelerate their ability to innovate and adopt advanced technologies."

MakerSpace chat. Watch Cutting Tool Engineering's video coverage, featuring original footage and context from the related product, process, event, or shop-floor demonstration.

I sit down with Dr. Jeff Helm, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Lafayette College. We discuss, as an extension of today’s live show, the best ways to lead by example in creating the future leaders of manufacturing.

Iverson Memorial Manufacturing Scholarship supports first recipient—Niko Aleksic, who is studying civil engineering at the University of Illinois Chicago.

In this video, Terry Iverson, founder of Champion NOW!, shares the story behind the Jerry R. Iverson Memorial Scholarship and how it honors his father's legacy in manufacturing. He explains how the scholarship is funded, who it supports, and why it matters for the future of the industry.

Hardness affects tool choice, cutting parameters, wear, and heat-treatment decisions. This guide compares Rockwell, Brinell, and Vickers scales for machining work.