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 Ģ������ƵStories      May 29, 2025

By Teresa Tate

Ģ������Ƶ’s College of Engineering and Technology will offer two America’s Cutting Edge Machining Bootcamps this summer completely free of charge. Bootcamps for adults and students in high school or college will be held at Ģ������Ƶfrom July 28 through Aug. 1 and Aug. 4-8. Participants will meet from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in classrooms and work in a machine shop.

“This is a hands-on, high-impact opportunity for anyone curious about machining or looking to explore a new career path,” said Scott Pierce, associate professor of engineering and principal investigator for the ACE programs at WCU. “We’re especially excited to welcome high school students, community college students, and adults from the community who may be looking for a different job or exploring new opportunities.”

ACE is a national Computer Numerical Control machine training program created to help meet the workforce demand for machinists. Managed by the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation through an agreement with the Department of Defense Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment program, ACE bootcamps are designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of machining and advanced manufacturing, regardless of prior experience.

Participants will learn:

• The basics of machining and manufacturing processes
• How to use Fusion 360, a free CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) software
• How to design and manufacture parts using numerically controlled, three-axis machining centers
• Safety protocols and machine operation techniques

The highlight of the bootcamp is creating a working air engine — a small, piston-powered device that spins when air is applied. “It’s got a little piston inside and a valve, and it spins really fast,” said Pierce. “It’s a fun and tangible way to see what you’ve built come to life.”

Upon completion, participants receive a certificate, which can be added to résumés and used to pursue further training or employment in the field. “This program is a gateway,” Pierce said. “A participant could finish this and decide to pursue a two-year machining degree or even a bachelor’s degree. There’s a huge demand for these skills, and companies are actively hiring.”

“This is about opening doors,” Pierce said. “Whether you’re a high school student, a community college student, or someone working in food service looking for a better opportunity — this could be your start.”

For more information, visit www.americascuttingedge.org to learn about the course. To participate, email Scott Pierce at rspierce@wcu.edu.