Machine Technology

Perhaps you have seen recent stories on the CBS Evening News, Bill O'Reilly on Fox News, and articles in the Wall Street Journal addressing the critical shortage of skilled technicians in most industries, yet positions in manufacturing are in high demand and lucrative. Machinists are often involved with upper level engineers and management to create the successful production level necessary for success in a globally competitive environment.

Precision Machine Technology is a pre-professional program designed to prepare high school students for successful entry into the Vincennes University Program in Advanced Manufacturing, Tool and Die, or Plastic Injection Mold Tooling.  Patoka Valley works with Vincennes University to provide an articulated program that is regarded by industry as the most comprehensive in Indiana and one of the few in the country that offers a machining curriculum that provides training in building complex stamping dies and injection molds.

The program was implemented at Pike Central High School in the fall of 2010 to meet the needs of local and regional industries and to give graduates additional employment opportunities. The courses are taught by Mr. Mark Scott, a Vincennes University faculty member.

The courses within the Pike Central Precision Manufacturing program are actual VU courses, so students earn both high school credits and college credits; up to 15 hours at NO EXPENSE. These courses currently cost $171.60 per credit hour, which saves students over $2,500 if they enroll in the two-year program on campus. Essentially, the core classes for the first semester are completed before enrolling in the program on the VU campus.

Classes at PCHS meet daily in a three-hour block in a new, state-of-the-art facility where students learn the skills needed by employers. Classroom instruction includes CNC programming using Mastercam software. Related classroom theory and terminology accompany the intensive hands-on environment which simulates those found in industry. Emphasis is placed on understanding all aspects of the industry, safety, precision, work-ethic, and craftsmanship.

VU graduates who are seeking employment in manufacturing have nearly a 100% placement rate. Employment opportunities exist locally, regionally, statewide and even across the United States. Precision machinists are employed in a variety of industries including automotive, aerospace, plastics, orthopedic/health care/life sciences, stamping, energy, motorsports, and other manufacturing industries.

Those who graduate from the above mentioned VU programs start out earning $35,000 to $40,000 annually and can quickly increase to $50,000 to $75,000+ per year as they gain experience.

Those interested in the Precision Manufacturing program at PCHS and would like more information, may contact Mr. Scott at 812-354-8478 extension 494, Email at mscott@pcsc.k12.in.us, or talk to a school guidance counselor.  More information can also be found on Mr. Scott's blog below.

If you are innovative, have a strong work ethic, and like using your mind for precise hands-on work, this career field may be for you.

For more information please visit:
http://scottscncvideos.blogspot.com/