Austin Polytech started its adult machining training program November 14th, with nine adults. Trainees were thrilled for the opportunity to study in the modern WaterSaver Faucet Manufacturing Technology Center at Austin Polytech to earn NIMS machining credentials with the expectation of landing high paying jobs in the manufacturing sector.  This program is the latest example of Polytech's mission to contribute to the development of the greater Austin community. 

The Center for Labor and Community Research led the effort to address this local skills gap by developing an adult machining training program similar to what Polytech students take during the school day.  The program is taught by NIMS Instructor Pablo Varela. He will provide 280 hours of classroom and lab instruction which covers manual machining and computer numerical controlled (CNC) machining.    

Trainees who successfully complete the program will earn the CNC Operator Certification, as well as the more advanced CNC Set-Up, Program, and Operator Credential, from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).  These industry-designed, portable credentials are respected by manufacturers throughout the United States.  Several participants, including Ms.Toni Richard, view the training sessions positively and recognize the benefits of adult education: "I'm into manufacturing already, so I wanted to advance my career . . . I am a machine operator, and it is really different from what I am doing here. With a CNC machine you just program it and stuff comes out," said Ms. Richard as she completed her class work.

Beyond skills and the credentials associated with the classroom experience, there is also a sense of camaraderie instilled among the participants as they join together to complete their coursework and move toward identifying job opportunities. The adult program will continue to meet every Monday and Wednesday for another 10 months. The goal is for every student to acquire credentials leading to a high-paying manufacturing job. Stay tuned for program updates and results.

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