PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Northern Maine Community College has announced that its Precision Machining Technology program has had its accreditation for excellence in metalworking training renewed for five years.
This means the NMCC program is maintaining its status among the best training providers in the United States.
The accreditation is granted by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills, which was formed by metalworking trade associations in 1995. The purpose is to maintain and enhance a globally competitive American workforce by ensuring quality, relevant and efficient training in this field.
“This credentialing helps students and potential employers of our students to be assured of the skills and proficiency of the program,” said Dean Duplessis, precision machining instructor. “We are proud to be creating a strong, flexible and well-trained workforce. This accreditation sends a powerful message that our program meets national industry standards.”
“Dean Duplessis has very strong ties to precision machining companies across the state and this accreditation will only reinforce those relationships,” said Pam Buck, Trade & Technical Occupations chair. “The Precision Machining Technology Program has consistently kept up with industry demands. Our equipment is second to none and our students stay on the cutting edge of technology used in the field.”
NIMS sets standards for the industry and accredits training programs that meet the high-level quality requirement. It is the nation’s only distinction for excellence in metalworking training. NMCC will remain on the list publicized by the Institute informing people interested in locating and receiving an industry-approved precision machining education.
“We are very proud of the employment rate of our precision machining technology students. Most of the students enter into summer internships/apprenticeships which often lead to job offers. The accreditation speaks to the safety requirements in place in our lab, the credibility and relevance of our program and the work readiness of our graduates,” said NMCC President Tim Crowley.
The accreditation involves writing an application, self-evaluation of the curriculum, an evaluation of industry engagement in the program (through an advisory committee), and an on-site evaluation by a NIMS representative to include instructor interviews, student interviews, facility inspection and employer interviews.
