The New Castle Career Center (NCCC) is taking steps to improve student success by upgrading its programs with new technology and equipment. The recent purchase of a new CNC (Computer Numerical Control) lathe for the Machine Trades program and a robotic trainer for the Engineering Careers and Computer Operations program will allow students to experience modern machining processes. Community partner donations and grants purchased both new technologies possible.
Lathe Acquisition and Integration
Community partners contributed to purchasing a new lathe for the Machine Trades program. These community partners include Hoosier Feeder Corporation (in collaboration with PMMI—The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies), the New Castle Henry County Economic Development Corporation (EDC), and the Henry County Redevelopment Commission. This lathe is state of the art with modern features that have more advanced capabilities than the equipment previously available at the Career Center. It will allow instructors to teach skills for even more certifications for students.
Seco Tools donated cutting tools for the lathe, and NCCC is developing projects and tooling setups for it. This equipment will allow students to practice machining metal using equipment they will likely encounter in their future careers.
The recently retired Machine Trades Instructor, Greg Dickerson advocated for the new lathe. “The new machine will enhance the capabilities of an already outstanding Career Center that’s essential to our community’s continuing development and growth,” Dickerson noted.
The new machine adds to the hands-on opportunities for students to develop essential skills as they prepare for high-demand roles in manufacturing in the Machine Trades program. With these skills, students can secure internships with local businesses, including Hoosier Feeder Corporation.
Robotic Trainer Acquisition and Integration
The EDC and Redevelopment Commission (RDC) provided funds for a new robotic trainer for the Engineering Careers and Computer Operations program at NCCC. The robotic trainer will introduce two new courses into these programs: ADMF-116 Industrial Robotics I and ADMF-206 Industrial Robotics II. These courses offer dual credits through Ivy Tech and a potential Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) certification.
Computer Operations Instructor Darrel Shaw and Engineering Careers Instructor Jason McCutchan received FANUC Robot Operations and Programming certification and training at FANUC America's headquarters in Ohio. FANUC is the world’s leading supplier of automation for manufacturing in robotics. This training will allow Shaw and McCutchan to teach students robot operations and programming skills. It also makes it possible for students to earn additional college credits and certifications. Students will earn the state and graduation pathway-approved FANUC Certified Robot Operator Certification.
The EDC and RDC grant supports students from eight school corporations, equipping them for employment and postsecondary education. “We are extremely thankful for the support,” commented Shaw.
The new lathe and robotic trainer enhance the Career Center's capabilities, contributing to the community's development and growth. Visit nccareercenter.org for more information about machine trades, engineering careers, computer operations programs, and other programs available at the New Castle Career Center.