Machining program receives $8K scholarship grant

March 1, 2022

ASHLAND, Ky. – The Computerized Manufacturing and Machining (CMM) program at Ashland Community and Technical College (ACTC) has received its third scholarship grant from the Gene Haas Foundation.

This year’s grant was for $8,000, bringing the total award the college has received from this foundation to $28,000.

The Gene Haas Foundation’s primary goal is to build skills in the machining industry by providing scholarships for machine technology students. 

Scholarships can be used for tuition, books, student’s personal National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) account, cost of individual NIMS credentials and required tools for the program.

“This grant is beneficial for CMM students because it aids in the expenses of their tuition, books and other related expenses,” said Danny Pancake, CMM program coordinator. “The grant allows students to spend the money in a variety of areas including professional memberships, competitions, personal tooling and much more. It also keeps most of them from having to finance their education through student loans or out of pocket.  It is also a boost to moral because Haas cares enough about the future of machine tool trades to help encourage students in the program with much needed help.” 

There are currently six students at ACTC who are using the scholarship fund.  

Machine tool students are awarded these grants based on availability of funds, need and continued success in the CMM program.

Through classroom instruction, students in the CMM program receive a hands-on experience learning to position work pieces, adjust machines and verify the accuracy of machine functions and producing finished products.

ACTC offers two diplomas and up to five certificates to prepare graduates for machine shop employment. Certificate and diploma credits may be applied toward an Associate in Applied Science Degree in General Occupational/Technical Studies.

The degree and diploma credential programs are four semesters in length. Certificates can be earned in as little as one semester or as many as three, based on pace and the certificate chosen.

Pancake can be reached at danny.pancake@kctcs.edu.

Learn more about the CMM program by visiting https://ashland.kctcs.edu/education-training/program-finder/computerized-manufacturing-machining.aspx