Current Program

Machine Shop - CNC (Computer Numerical Control) involves the manufacturing of metal and non-metal parts using computers and a variety of machine tools following exact dimensions from blue prints, specifications or sketches. The program, which reflects the goals of the college's Mission Statement, offers training in the traditional, hand controlled basic tools of the machinist, and also includes sophisticated skills to use computer programs to make drawings (CAD) and computers (CAM) to control production machinery (CNC). Students enroll in Machine Shop - CNC to meet requirements for transfer to a four-year institution, to obtain a degree or certificate, for personal enrichment, for training or upgrading job skills, to meet apprenticeship requirements, and to acquire the skills for developing inventions. Many factors have affected course offerings in the past ten years, including the availability of qualified instructors, changes in the environment, population, economic conditions, college budget conditions, students' basic skills, student interests, technology and facilities. The increasing use of technology, and the additional of weekend classes also have affected the program.

Degrees and Certificates - An Associate in Science degree, a Certificate of Completion and a Certificate of Completion-Adjunct are offered.

Personnel - At this time three full-time faculty, seven part-time faculty, two full-time classified employees, one part-time classified employee and one student employee work in the department.

Teaching Methodologies - Lecture, lecture/lab, lecture/demonstration and labs are the primary teaching methods used in the program. Some self-paced and computerized instruction also is used.

Technology - At this time no online or distance education technologies are used.

Equipment - Several items of equipment are in need of immediate repair and replacement, and funds are being made available from VTEA for this purpose. There is an immediate need for a dedicated air compressor located in the program area that will provide consistent air pressure for the CNC machines. An exhaust fan/dust collector system is needed in the grinding room and for the pedestal grinders. A portable welder and an electric lift also are needed.

Facilities - The size and location of program facilities is excellent; however, the CAD/CAM lab should be located closer to the CNC machines, with hard wiring between them. Shop areas need to be painted and the tool crib reconditioned.

Offices need Internet connections and computer labs and offices need air conditioning. The ceiling in the lecture room (F274) needs repair and paint.

Future Program

The program will need to adapt to the following conditions within the next ten years: reorganization of current facilities, changes in technology, teaching methods and curriculum development, and changes in student academic preparation as well as the college's recruitment strategies. Improved coordination with the Learning Skills Center would help give some students specialized assistance they need. Enrollment in the program is expected to increase over the next ten years at the same rate as overall college enrollment, as there is currently a large demand for qualified machinists and indications are that the demand is going to increase. See Program Projections.

Degrees and Certificates - No changes in degrees or certificates are planned.

Personnel - See Projected Faculty and Staff Needs.

Teaching Methodologies - Changes in teaching methods will naturally come from the addition of new technology for instructors' use.

Technology - Alternative delivery systems, such as distance education and online courses, will allow several courses to be offered using the new technology.

Equipment - In the next five years, the following equipment needs to be replaced: wire electrical discharge machine, a robot, and several computers. Several new pieces of equipment are needed, including an abrasive jet cutting machine, inspection equipment, and videos.

Facilities - The college should relocate the CAD/CAM lab closer to the CNC machines, with hard wiring between them. Shop areas require painting and the toolcrib needs to be reconditioned. Offices need Internet connections and both computer labs and offices need air conditioning. The ceiling in the lecture room (F274) needs repair and paint, and this room should be dedicated solely for use by the Machine Shop - CNC program.

Staff Development - Instructors require ongoing training on new equipment and should be able to attend technical conferences that keep them up-to-date with industry advancements; help in developing partnerships with industry is also required.

Special Recommendation

The department should explore alternative delivery systems and increases in class size to provide more opportunities for students to access the program.