NIMS Award Makes Manufacturing Technology Program Third in State to Achieve National Distinction.
MESA, Arizona - January 22, 2016 - Mesa Community College has set a new height in the 36-year history of its Manufacturing Technology program, a vital component of the Arizona Advanced Manufacturing Institute (AzAMI) at the college. As of December 10, 2015 the program received accreditation from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills, Inc. (NIMS Accreditation), the highest benchmark for metalworking training in the United States as based on national, industry- written and industry-driven skills standards.
As a nationally accredited program, AzAMI demonstrates its commitment to providing industry-level training for the Mesa community, the state of Arizona, and for the greater U.S. Manufacturing Industry. To achieve accreditation, college staff and faculty have met the stringent quality requirements set forth by NIMS, which include a program self-audit, the certifying of faculty and students in NIMS national industry credentials, and an intensive two-day on-site evaluation at the center.
“AzAMI at Mesa Community College is committed to increasing the talent supply chain to meet the shortages in our skilled workforce,” said Leah Palmer, Executive Director, Arizona Advanced Manufacturing Institute. “To achieve this, we have worked diligently to qualify as a Certified NIMS training site. We’ve developed a comprehensive curriculum that teaches to the skills standards necessary for our industry partners.”
The on-site evaluation occurred in fall 2015 and was conducted by NIMS Lead Evaluator Mark Lashinske (Modern Industries, Inc.), who was assisted by Education Representative Chris Williams (Tucson High Magnet School) and Industry Representative Mark Reish (Modern Industries, Inc.).
After a comprehensive facility inspection, observation of student safety habits and a series of in-depth interviews with faculty, administrators, and local employers, the team was highly impressed and issued above-average ratings in the following evaluation areas: purpose, facility, program features, equipment, tooling and measuring devices, administration, and faculty and staff.
This accreditation is based on NIMS National Skill Standards for Machining Level I and Level II with a focus on the manual and computer numerical control (CNC) machining skills and allows students to pursue any and all credentials offered by NIMS.
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Contacts
Dawn Zimmer, 480-461-7892, dawn.zimmer@mesacc.edu
Sally Mesarosh, 480-461-7283, sally.mesarosh@mesacc.edu
Mesa Community College is nationally recognized for its service-learning, civic engagement and innovative educational programs, which include university transfer, career and technical, workforce development, and life-long learning. Host to 40,000 students annually, MCC offers more than 195 degrees and certificate programs at its two campuses and additional locations. MCC’s student body hails predominantly from the East Valley of Phoenix and includes Veteran, American Indian and International students who enrich the learning experience. Award-winning faculty are dedicated to student success providing the education and training that empowers MCC students to compete locally and globally. MCC is one of 10 colleges that comprise the Maricopa County Community College District. The District also includes the Maricopa Corporate College and two skill centers. For additional information, visit mesacc.edu.
Mesa Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) http://www.ncahlc.org, 800-621-7440.
The Maricopa County Community College District is an EEO/AA institution and an
equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.