Partnership focuses on building regional workforce in advanced manufacturing

John Tyler Community College (JTCC) announced the expansion of its precision machining program to increase the advanced manufacturing workforce in the region, a growing economic force in the Commonwealth. The program expansion showcases the first wave of accomplishments springing from the partnership between JTCC and Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, to develop the region’s future in high-value manufacturing.

“We are excited to introduce an expanded curriculum and new high-tech equipment and hope it will generate enthusiasm for young people to consider careers in science and engineering,” said JTCC President Marshall W. Smith. “The precision machining program combines the strengths of Rolls-Royce industry experience and John Tyler’s educational expertise to deliver a highly-skilled, highly-technical workforce.”

“Rolls-Royce is honored to partner with John Tyler Community College on this vitally important initiative to develop the region’s future workforce,” said Rolls-Royce Executive Vice President – Crosspointe, Thomas O. Loehr, who joined Dr. Smith at a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the occasion. “Training the next generation of highly skilled workers is critical to the future of Rolls-Royce and to the success of advanced manufacturing in America. We are committed to this cause and look forward to a long-term relationship with John Tyler and the Commonwealth of Virginia.”

The precision machining program at JTCC has earned nationally recognized accreditation through the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). It is the only post-secondary program in the Commonwealth of Virginia to hold this accreditation. The courses offer students a hands-on learning experience that will prepare them for careers in modern-day manufacturing facilities. Students will gain hands-on practical experience using the latest manufacturing methods on large-scale, high-tech machines that are similar to those found on a shop floor. The first machine to arrive at JTCC is a brand new Mazak Machining Center – a high-tech, large-scale precision milling machine acquired as a result of this partnership. Students will benefit from industry-guided curriculums for relevancy and strong technical knowledge. JTCC offers certificate programs that are accepted by multiple industries.

A degree or certificate in precision machining technology will allow graduates to compete for a wide variety of jobs. The program is designed to prepare students for success in careers in advanced manufacturing across many industries such as aerospace and defense, automotive die/mold, consumer products, medical, power generation and renewable energy.

JTCC