Workforce Development & Training

Michael Deren, who writes the Machinist's Corner column for CTE, spent the holidays reflecting on a couple of events from 2017. One was his promotion at work. The other? Three machines failed within 24 hours.

As CTE Publications Inc. begins the 70th volume of Cutting Tool Engineering, the fundamental principles of cutting and grinding metal remain the same as when the magazine premiered with a different name to serve members of the Society of Carbide Engineers.

Hands-on learning is quickly becoming the best-known way for students to fully grasp concepts and curriculum, especially in the world of technical education. To this end, classrooms have started to change in accommodation for this type of hands-on teaching. This early exposure to machine tools preps kids for the work they'll see throughout their careers.

Since its founding in 2008, 421 graduates of the nonprofit school Workshops for Warriors, San Diego, have earned 2,500 nationally recognized certifications from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills Inc., the American Welding Society and more. Even more noteworthy is the fact that the educational institution exists to train military veterans for metalworking careers.

Inaugural awards hosted by manufacturing innovation centers mHUB, UI LABS and IMEC celebrated region's manufacturing innovation and leadership by recognizing the companies, products and initiatives driving a new revolution.n

Thermal systems manufacturer Watlow has been working to bolster a shrinking manufacturing workforce in the US, and its efforts have been recognized. The Missouri Association of Manufacturers has awarded the company a Made in Missouri Leadership Award because of its support of STEM education, training programs and economic development initiatives.

FANUC America has selected HEIDENHAIN's tocuh probes for use and training on its popular ROBODRILLs in its recently expanded CNC machining laboratory in Hoffman Estates, Ill.

Lt. Governor Rebecca Kleefisch joined Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Secretary Ray Allen, German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest (GACC Midwest) officials and other partners on Sept. 6 to recognize Hermle Machine Co. for being the first employer in the state to introduce a new apprenticeship collaboration that follows the structure of internationally renowned German apprenticeship system.

In the Lima, Ohio, area, local educators and businesses are trying to bridge the gap between education and the business world. For example, the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce and an Ottawa-Glandorf High School business teacher created an experimental program last year called Emerging Business Leaders.

From the Napa Valley Register: "I ended up taking Machine Tool Technology by accident – I didn't know what it was. When the professor started by talking about the danger of getting scalped by machines, I thought 'What am I getting myself into?' But once we got started working I fell in love with the trade and knew what I wanted to do with my life."

Remember when you were the new employee? If you had any questions, you asked the individual closest to you. The Machinist's Corner column in the July 2017 issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine explores a better way to conduct orientation for new employees.