In Meriden, CT, a focus on CNC machining pays off

The machining class now running through the summer pulls its curriculum from the college's Precision Machining Institute certificate program, which commands 224 classroom hours. But students who sign up and commit to the 64-hour abbreviated program are eligible to receive a certificate in computerized numerical control programming — or CNC. This provides the necessary skills to use CNC tools used in manufacturing. The program also is open to students who are not housing authority residents.

There are fewer than 10 students in a class and the grant pays the $888 cost for each student. Instructors estimate a starting job in manufacturing can generate $11 to $15 per hour, with raises for more training and experience.

"The goal here is to make people independent and put them on the road to home ownership," Truscinski said. "Manufacturing may be in decline, but smart manufacturing will still be a part of the Connecticut economy. This is helping them understand the technology required. This has the potential to make a significant impact in their lives."

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