NIMS recently had the first meeting of the CNC Technical Workgroup that will be developing the basics for the competency-based apprenticeship in Tampa, Florida. The parties involved create an excellent group and include representatives of Southern Manufacturing Technologies, Inc. & two other Florida companies, HAAS, Sandvik-Coromant , plus two instructors- Ken Wright from Henry Ford Community College (MI)  and Mike Blizzard of Calhoun State Community College (AL) Ford, both of whom are well versed in CNC.  In fact, Mike Blizzard from Calhoun holds a dozen NIMS credentials!

During this meeting the group determined the core, fundamental CNC Operator tasks.  At later meeting they will pare them down and prioritize them as critical work functions.

Special thanks go to each group member, particularly our industry representatives: NIMS Board Member Roy Sweatman of SMT, Bob Skodzinsky of HAAS, and Brian Davis of Sandvik-Coromant.

Progress continues with Machinist, Tool & Die, Mold Maker and Press Set-up Operator apprenticeships.  NIMS is currently seeking volunteers for EDM and Precision Assembly technical workgroups.  If you are interested in participating, please contact Rebecca Gardner at rgardner@nims-skills.org or by phone at (703) 352-4971.