HBCU Receives $1 Million Grant for Precision Machining Program - HBCU Buzz

Gadsden State Community College is celebrating a significant boost to its Precision Machining Program by announcing a $1 million grant from the Gene Haas Foundation. This generous gift will support the college’s innovative Advanced Manufacturing and Workforce Skills Training Center on the East Broad Campus. In honor of this investment, the school will name the precision machining lab in the Gene Haas Center for Advanced Machining and Engineering Technology.

Alan Smith, the dean of workforce development at Gadsden State, emphasized the importance of precision machining in today’s job market. “Precision Machining is considered a high-demand, high-wage occupation,” he noted. “Our Precision Machining Program prepares students for rewarding careers as CNC machinists or programmers, automotive machinists, tool and die makers, mold makers and in tool and machinery sales. We are thankful for the generous contribution the Haas Foundation is making to our students at Gadsden State.”

Founded by Gene Haas, who established Haas Automation Inc., one of the leading machine tool manufacturers, the Haas Foundation has been committed to supporting manufacturing education. This is not the first time the foundation has invested in Gadsden State. Previous donations have helped fund scholarships for aspiring manufacturing professionals.

Elizabeth Wheatley, who was pivotal in securing the grant, expressed her gratitude for the Haas Foundation’s support. “Their investment in our Precision Machining Program will have a lasting impact on our students and the local manufacturing industry. This grant ensures that our students will have access to excellent equipment and training that will give them the skills they need to thrive in high-demand careers.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the nation boasts approximately 357,000 machining jobs, with a median annual income exceeding $53,000. Gadsden State offers an associate degree in applied science and certificates in Basic Machine Tools, Basic CNC, and Additive Manufacturing. Additionally, the college provides dual enrollment opportunities for high school students to get a head start on their training.

“Career technical education, like our Precision Machining Program, is vital to providing students with skills and training that employers are seeking in today’s workforce,” Smith remarked. “With demand for skilled machinists growing, this program helps bridge the gap between education and industry. We are preparing students for high-paying, secure careers.”