In response to a recent jobs report that projects the manufacturing sector will seek to fill 100,000 jobs over the next decade Northern Essex Community College, in partnership with Lawrence Technical School, has developed a Machine Tool Training Program (MTTP) to educate and train area workers for those jobs.

The pilot program will be launched in late January, and will train 10 unemployed or underemployed individuals. Developed with input from local employers, the program will train individuals to operate computer numeric controlled (CNC) machines, which are used to produce metal parts with high precision.

Graduates of the program can expect to compete for jobs paying on average $22 an hour according to George Moriarty, director of NECC’s Workforce Development and Corporate Relations.

“After decades of decline, manufacturing is enjoying a significant rebound in Massachusetts and across the nation,” Moriarty says. “Low-paying factory jobs have been replaced by careers… careers with competitive wages in advanced manufacturing fields such as semi-conductors, aerospace, plastics production, and medical equipment.”

Gone are the days of the declining, low-paying factory jobs, he says. Now, most of the work is done by software, computers, and robotic equipment in the machine, which means skills like blueprint reading, metrology, and math are essential.

MTTP will provide an introduction to the programming, setup, and tooling for CNCs. Topics will include system parts, fundamental coding, basis for numeric, parts programming, and operation of CNCl turning and milling centers. In addition, the course will provide instruction in mathematics and applied geometry, as needed in CNC tooling.

Northern Essex will provide classroom instruction in the foundation studies and in theory & applications at NECC Riverwalk, 360 Merrimack St., Lawrence, while Greater Lawrence Technical School will provide hands-on machining experience. Participants will learn to program and operate machines, perform basic assembly, and inspect finished products.

Also partnering on this initiative are the The Merrimack Valley Workforce Investment Board (WIB) which will help organize employer involvement and assist in identifying job placement opportunities and The ValleyWorks One-Stop Career Center which will recruit, assess, screen, and refer candidates for the program. ValleyWorks will also assist with case management, job placement, and follow-up.

Local Employers will participate in candidate selection, provide internships and financial support, and will have the first opportunity to hire those who complete the program.

Those who complete the training will receive a certificate from Northern Essex Community College.
For more information contact George Moriarty at gmoriarty@necc.mass.edu