Gadsden, AL – Gadsden State Community College has announced a significant boost to its Precision Machining Program, receiving a $1 million grant from the Gene Haas Foundation. This generous contribution will support the college’s Precision Machining Program, located in the new Advanced Manufacturing and Workforce Skills Training Center on the East Broad Campus. In honor of this support, Gadsden State will name the precision machining lab the Gene Haas Center for Advanced Machining and Engineering Technology.
“Precision Machining is considered a high-demand, high-wage occupation,” said Alan Smith, Dean of Workforce Development. “Our Precision Machining Program prepares students for rewarding careers as CNC machinists or programmers, automotive machinists, tool and die makers, mold makers, and in tool and machinery sales. We are thankful for the generous contribution the Haas Foundation is making to our students at Gadsden State.”
Founded in 1999 by Gene Haas, the founder of Haas Automation Inc., the Haas Foundation aims to support manufacturing education. This grant follows previous funding provided to Gadsden State for scholarships to assist students pursuing careers in manufacturing.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Haas Foundation for their extraordinary support,” said Elizabeth Wheatley, who wrote the grant for the college. “Their investment in our Precision Machining Program will have a lasting impact on our students and the local manufacturing industry. This grant ensures that our students will have access to excellent equipment and training that will give them the skills they need to thrive in high-demand careers.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 357,000 machining jobs in the United States, with a median annual income exceeding $53,000. Gadsden State offers an Associate in Applied Science degree along with certificates in Basic Machine Tool, Basic CNC, and Additive Manufacturing. The college also provides dual enrollment opportunities for high school students interested in getting a head start on their training.
Students may also apply to the innovative Consortium of Machining Education Training (CoMeT). This program allows students to earn an associate degree in Precision Machining Technology while gaining the necessary skills to design and manufacture precision parts. Through hands-on experience with industry partners, CoMeT students are well-prepared for careers that require advanced manufacturing craftsmanship. Applications for CoMeT are being accepted until February 28 for the fall semester in 2025.
Smith emphasized the importance of career technical education for regional economic growth. “Career technical education, like our Precision Machining Program, is vital to providing students with the skills and training that employers are seeking in today’s workforce. With demand for skilled machinists growing, this program helps bridge the gap between education and industry. We are preparing students for high-paying, secure careers.”
For more information about Gadsden State’s Workforce Development programs, visit www.gadsdenstate.edu/technical. Details about the CoMeT program can be found at www.gadsdenstate.edu/comet.
