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 A vertical milling machine, formerly used by Rensselear Polytechnic Institute, is the latest cutting edge technology to be added to the Career and Technical Institute.

This Computerized Numeric Control (CNC) machine is capable of cutting and shaping different materials into whatever object it is programed to make ranging from door hinges to machine blocks. “This is a perfect fit for our welding program,” said District Superintendent Jason Schetelick. “This vertical milling machine can make large pieces of equipment including motors and parts in steel. This will better prepare students to work in manufacturing as this machine is the current industry standard.” Allendale Machinery’s Vice President Marty McGill, sells this type of Haas equipment. He secured the equipment from RPI and arranged with Haas for the donation. McGill has been working closely with the Council of Industry to support the establishment of Mechatronics Centers across the state and to create a pipeline so students are training on the equipment in high school. The timing is perfect. Dutchess Community College will be opening a Mechatronics Center and academic program next year at its Fishkill location, said Schetelick. “We toured the site and we are working to align our curriculum with theirs.” In addition, Hatfield Metal Fabrication in Poughkeepsie has an immediate need for skilled employees. “Hatfield is telling the Council of Industry that this is what they need,” said Schetelick. “They can’t find employees and they can guarantee well-paying jobs right out of high school.” CTI Principal Nick Millas said two table top CNC milling machines have also been purchased to further enhance the welding and fabrication program. They will be used to train students using less expensive materials to prototype out their designs and while they develop coding skills. Millas is pleased CTI students will now have more opportunity to develop these in-demand skills. The vertical mill is the core equipment of any manufacturing company. High quality precision parts are used in such industries as aerospace, electronics, medical, automotive, and more. “We want to thank our partners at Haas Tooling & Equipment for this generous donation,” said Schetelick. “We look forward to developing quality manufacturing technicians to fill the thousands of positions in the field. This is a highly advanced field using robotics and coding with high paying jobs readily available.” BOCES will be working with districts and guidance counselors so they can introduce their students to these amazing, interesting jobs he added.

 

published August 29, 2022