Demand for machinists prompts new manufacturing degree option
Jackson Community College’s JCC @ LISD TECH Center in Lenawee County has collaborated with the LISD TECH Center to offer a new manufacturing associate degree program, manufacturing technology/machining.
“We are continuing to hear from our employers in the area, especially the Lenawee area, that they have jobs available and have, in essence, a shortage of skilled-trades workers,” said Provost Rebekah Woods.
“Traditional manufacturing is starting to come back, and there’s such a void in the skilled trades because workers have left our area and moved on, and now we need to get training to fill these positions,” said Assistant Professor Steve Brennan. “The new program is going well so far, and we continue to get it running.”
Machinists set up, operate and service machine tools -- large, power-driven machines that drill, grind, turn, mill, shear or shape metal. Machine tools may include lathes, milling machines and grinders, to produce precision metal parts. The parts that machinists make range from simple bolts of steel or brass to titanium bone screws for orthopedic implants. Hydraulic parts, anti-lock brakes and automobile pistons are other widely known products that machinists make.
Those interested in going into machining should enjoy activities involving the use of machines, processes and methods, and activities dealing with things and objects. Machinists evaluate machined parts against blueprint specifications and must work within precise standards of accuracy. They need to work to follow written and verbal directions and have good math skills. Employment of machinists in Michigan is expected to grow about as fast as average for all occupations, and wages average about $16.78 per hour.
Students enrolled in LISD TECH Center’s advanced manufacturing program may articulate credit to JCC when they enroll in the associate degree program. The program provides both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to be successful in today’s manufacturing and machining environment. In the future, JCC is developing an apprenticeship program for machinists, which can lead to earning a journeyman’s card.
Review the full degree program online at www.jccmi.edu. You may also visit JCC @ LISD TECH and speak with an advisor, or call 517.265.5515 to learn more.
Read more Highlights
