When GateWay Community College announced the launch of its new Center for Industrial Technology (CIT) on its Washington Campus, the college knew that there was a demand for its manufacturing and skilled-trade programs. With the manufacturing industry booming in the state, the college has been moving quickly to ensure its students continue to be some of the most well-sought-after graduates upon completion by expanding its equipment and training opportunities.
And this past week, GateWay and its CIT programs were awarded a $15,000 grant from the Gene Haas Foundation. The Gene Haas Foundation has supported local communities, charities, and students for over 20 years. The grant will focus on specialty training for two specific classes: Beginning 5-Axis CNC programming and 5-Axis CNC Setup, Operation, and Probing. The funds will provide financial assistance to students to help them with their education expenses.
"This will provide opportunities for so many students. All of the programs we offer through the Center for Industrial Technology have great career prospects," said Dr. Craig Urbanski, division chair for the Center of Industrial Technology. "We've been a workforce development leader for over 50 years, and our industry partners know they can count on our students to be among the best."
To keep up with its expansion, the college also recently welcomed the arrival of brand-new equipment. Students will now train on new technology, which includes the HAAS UMC500SS machines with dynamic work offset, touch screen, full probing, and 15,000 RPM spindle for high-speed machining. Students will also learn tooling applications with new Shrink Fit tool holders, required for high spindle speeds and high-speed machining. And with classes starting in January, the new machines ensure that students train on the most cutting-edge technology.
"The Gene Haas Foundation grant will help ease the financial burden of qualified students interested in industrial design technology," said Dave Zamora, lead faculty for the program. "Combined with this new equipment, we're confident our program will help students find better careers while also playing a critical role in the Arizona economy."
With new state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment, GateWay continues to find new opportunities to expand its core manufacturing and skilled trades programs. The recently launched CIT includes five of the college's existing programs: Industrial Design Technology, Automotive, HVAC, Water Resources and Environmental Science Technology, and Water and Wastewater Treatment.
"The Center for Industrial Technology programs emphasize how big of a role we play in our community as a leading workforce development college," said Dr. Amy Diaz, interim president. "Ultimately, our college's mission has always been helping students take the most direct and affordable path to high-paying jobs. The critical industries this center serves are vital to everyone."
All students enrolled in the CIT - Industrial Design Technology program at its Washington campus are eligible to apply for the scholarship grant at the college.
For information on the program, visit gatewaycc.edu/cit or call (602) 286-8000 for enrollment services.