Randolph Community College
Machining Program Designated
Haas Technical Education Center

ASHEBORO (July 26, 2007)

Randolph Community College’s Machining Technology program has been designated a Haas Technical Education Center by Haas Automation, according to Mitchell Kiser, department chair for RCC’s Mechanical and Industrial Department. Randolph becomes one of only about 450 schools nationwide with the certification. To qualify, schools must meet quality standards established by Haas and the HTEC Council. Haas Automation is the largest Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine tool builder in the world.

The HTEC program was developed to benefit both educational institutions and Haas Automation. The school benefits by having easier access to the products and services that are necessary to train a future workforce. Haas benefits by exposing students to Haas products.

Kiser attended a Haas Technical Education Center conference in early June to complete requirements for the certification. “This allows our students the opportunity to learn CNC programming on Haas machines,” said Kiser. “This is the same type of programming and equipment students will be exposed to when they go to work in the machining industry.”

The HTEC program includes a discount when purchasing Haas machines for training, a trade-in- program for replacing older machines, an opportunity to participate in a job placement program at the Haas factory in Oxnard, Calif., and Haas-sponsored educator visits to the factory to learn firsthand how Haas builds its products. “There is also an opportunity for a student scholarship,” said Kiser. Grants of up to $5,000 a year are available to Haas Technical Education Centers from the Gene Haas Foundation.

Those interested in applying to enter the RCC Machining Technology program this fall should call 336-633-0200 or visit www.randolph.edu today. Fall registration will be Aug. 15 and 16; classes begin Aug. 20.