Students in the Compute Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist program at the TCC Opportunity Center concluded nine weeks of training with the largest career fair yet, followed by a graduation ceremony. Graduates sat down with eager recruiters from eight local companies for one-on-one interviews to discuss possible positions regarding their newly honed skills.
Throughout the course, students learned fundamental skills to program and operate CNC machines and participate in hands-on activities regarding blueprint reading, precision measurements and math skills, handling power tools, and discussing safety protocols. In its last round of funding by a $441,660 grant from the Jobs and Education for Texans program through the State Comptroller’s office, the CNC Machinist program trained 23 participants—the largest class in the history of the program. Since its launch in Sept. 2010, 116 students have completed training and furthered their education or found a position as a machinist.
Ryan Norman, a CNC Machinist student from Grapevine, said the program put his foot in the door for a long-term career and couldn’t be more excited. “I like this program because you get that sense of accomplishment,” Norman said. “It’s completely changed my life. Honestly, I believe it’s a miracle.”
Aside from the CNC Machinist certification, graduates also earn certifications in First Aid and CPR, Forklift Operation, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration. A majority of the 360 hours of training is provided at the TCCOC, a high-techeducational facility, located in Fort Worth’s historic Stop Six neighborhood.
CNC faculty members have estimated a 90 percent job placement rate for its students as a result of the career fair. Companies that attended the most recent fair include Baumann Springs, GE Manufacturing Solutions, HelpWanted.com, Kelly Services, KleinTools, Martin Sprockett and Gear, Trinity Forge, and Weir Oil and Gas.
Global, Inc. Recruiting Manager Glenda Harrison, a continuous career fair attendee, was impressed by students she interviewed. “The students are respectful and interview very well. They’ve been taught very well by the instructors,” Harrison expressed with admiration. “Out of all the people that we place with this type of skill, these are the best ones that we come across. They have their eye on the prize, and I like it.”
Submitted by Anna Frankie Farrar-Helm,
a summer intern in Public Relations and Marketing,
where she enjoys learning about TCC happenings
and sharing them with others.