Community members, industry representatives and college administrators gathered around a number of CNC machines and 3D printers at the unveiling of a new manufacturing lab at GateWay Community College-Central City Campus, formerly known as Maricopa Skill Center.
The $2.1 million renovation was made possible, thanks in part to a Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training (TAACCCT) grant. The program expands community college partnerships with employers in high-demand industries so students are ready for employment when they graduate.
New equipment added included mills, lathes, high-end internet connected CNC machines, a 3D printer that can print up to nine colors, a vision inspection machine that helps ensure accuracy in the machined components and more.
The lab will provide hands-on training for students and will accommodate three shifts of students, running 18 hours a day. Students will be introduced to solid modeling, CAM as well as 3D printing.
The lab also builds on the Arizona Regional Advanced Manufacturing Professional Upgrade Project (AZ RAMP Up). Industry certifications include the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS), the American Welding Society (AWS), the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC), the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA), the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC), and NCRC +.
To learn more about our programs, visit www.gatewaycc.edu.