Education for the Future

The manufacturing industry requires a highly-educated, skilled workforce that must adapt and grow with the ever-changing industry at an accelerated pace. Haas Automation Inc. has recognized this need and has taken the initiative by offering supporting training programs around the world, and offering an apprenticeship program to educate CNC machining operators, programmers and application engineers.

HTEC

In 1996, Haas Automation established the Haas Technical Education Center (HTEC) program in the United States as a school-based initiative where teachers and students could experience the latest machine tool technology. The goals of the program consist of making manufacturing technology accessible to a very wide array of educational establishments, and providing students with hands-on experience in a real-world manufacturing environment.

Today, the program has evolved to incorporate international programs, including HTECs in Canada and the recentlylaunched HTEC program in Europe. In the United States and Canada alone, there are more than 750 HTECs, including almost 100 high schools, more than 100 vocational schools, upwards of 300 community colleges, and nearly 200 universities, with more than 2,000 machines installed. The European program aims to parallel its North American counterpart in Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and other European nations.

HMAP

In addition to the HTEC programs, Haas Automation goes a step further by implementing a unique apprenticeship program for CNC machinists. Although experience in robotics, programming, hydraulic fixturing and other advanced techniques is ideal, Haas recognizes that this is not always reality. In an effort to keep qualified machinists prepped for work in the manufacturing industry, the company now offers the Haas Master Apprenticeship Program (HMAP), a structured, 30-month, hands-on, comprehensive CNC manufacturing course.

Top professionals in the industry teach specially-selected students in Haas' 1-million-square-foot facility in Oxnard, CA. The main goal is to produce "the best machinists anywhere," according to the company.

The 5,200-hour apprenticeship consists of intensive, challenging and cutting-edge instruction intended for students needing to grasp the high level of technology required in today's industry, giving them the tools they need to adapt to future advancements. Some of the areas that HMAP covers are programming, FMS, 5-sided machining, VMCs, HMCs, CNC lathes, prototyping, hydraulic fixturing and robotics.

Unlike many apprenticeship programs, students of HMAP are paid employees with standard employee benefits. They are actually paid to learn, and upon completion of the program, Master Apprentices are offered employment in advanced positions at the Haas factory.

The program is not for everyone, the company cautions. Haas selects only eight applicants per year, and only those who show a strong desire to be the best. Requirements for application include a degree or certificate from a two-year (minimum) academic program closely related to machining technology, and applicants must be among the top graduates in their class, with high recommendations from their instructors. That said, the character of the applicant will play a large role in selection: Haas looks for demonstration of instinct and aptitude for excellence, as well as a passion for quality.

By being able to learn in a real-life machine shop with a wealth of available technology, machines and tools, Master Apprentices take away a working knowledge of their future job. Seeing everyday problems and challenges on the shop floor enables students to react on their feet and gain unparalleled familiarity with the industry.

Haas Automation has created a platform for professionals and students to take the next step in the manufacturing industry by offering educational opportunities to shape and grow the next generation of machinists. For more information on HTEC and HMAP, respectively, visit htecnetwork.org and haascnc.com/news/new_files/MISC/Haas Master Apprentice Program.wmv.