As of November 3, 2014, the Machine Tool Technology Program at the Mayfield/Graves County Area Technology Center (KY) is officially accredited. Based on industry-set standards for quality, NIMS Accreditation is the highest benchmark for metalworking training programs in the United States.
By becoming accredited, the staff and faculty at the tech center have met NIMS quality requirements, which include a Self-Evaluation, Faculty Credentials, Student Credentials and an intensive two-day On-Site Evaluation at the tech center.
The On-Site Evaluation was conducted by a three-person NIMS Evaluation Team, which included:
- Certified Evaluation Team Leader: Joe Waskevich, GE Appliances (KY)
- Education Representative: Stuart Jones, Henderson Co. High School (KY)
- Industry Representative: Barry Jackson (KY).
After a comprehensive facility inspection, observation of active students, plus in-depth interviews with program faculty, administrators and local employers, the Evaluation Team gave the program above-average ratings in the evaluation areas of:
- Program Purpose
- Program Features
- Equipment, Tooling and Measuring Devices
- Program Administration
- Program Faculty
- Advisory Committee.
This accreditation is based on the industry-written, industry-approved NIMS Machining Level I Skill Standard, with a focus on four main skills credentials, including:
- Job Planning, Benchwork and Layout
- Measurement, Materials and Safety
- Milling I
- Turning Operations: Turning Between Centers.
Located in Mayfield, KY, the Machine Tool Technology Program was established in 1973 and currently trains and certifies up to 36 students per session. Instruction covers machining skills, including manual milling, turning and other skills that are vital for students to excel in the workplace.
For more information contact:
Catherine Ross
NIMS Director of Accreditation
703-352-4971
cross@nims-skills.org
Chad Pickard, Instructor
Mayfield/Graves Co. Area Technology Center
270-247-4710
chad.pickard@mayfield.kyschools.us