Sierra College surveys manufacturers to align programs with needs of industry

ROCKLIN – In Placer and Nevada counties, manufacturers reported that there is a need for trained machinists to fill jobs on a survey conducted by the Sierra College Center for Applied Competitive Technologies (CACT). Of the manufacturers that responded to the survey, 41% needed skilled machinists and training for employees in measuring, reading plans and using hand tools.

This coincides with the experience of Computer Integrated Electronics (CIE) professor, Steve Hunter one of the Sierra College Faculty developing curriculum for the new Mechatronics program. Mechatronics is a new field that integrates electronics, mechanics, pneumatics, hydraulics and programming to design, build and maintain automated manufacturing equipment.

“Today's machinist needs hands-on skills as well as the ability to problem solve complex systems,” said Hunter. “The manufacturers on the Mechatronics advisory board tell us that they are looking for machinists with practical, hands-on skills that include reading plans, measuring and using hand tools. Our students develop these skills through lab activities and internships.”

Sierra College offers classes for training employees as well as students preparing for careers as machinists and Mechatronics technicians. Hunter recommends the following Fall courses:

• CIE 14- Fabrication Techniques
• CIE 20 – Circuits for Computer Integrated Electronics
• Design Drafting 35 A&B – Computer Aided Drafting
• Design Drafting 40 – Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerance

For those interested in exploring Mechatronics as a possible career choice, an introductory course will be offered, starting August 29, at both the Rocklin and Nevada City campuses, CIE 10 – Fundamentals of Computer Integrated Electronics. The CIE department also offers CIE 25 – Personal Computer Configuration and Repair, a course that may be of interest to businesses. Register for classes at www.sierracollege.edu or call 916-781-0430 or 530-274-5302.

In addition, the Sierra College Center for Applied Competitive Technologies is looking at non-traditional approaches to meet the demand for skilled machinists. The first is a virtual machine shop that trainees could access on-line, using 3D modeling to read plans, measure and manipulate tools. The CACT is also considering offering machinist training in a mobile lab that can go to employer sites and is modeled after the successful mobile computer skills training lab. Manufacturers replacing a rapid prototyping machine may consider making a donation of the old system to the Sierra College CACT for training.

The CACT also provides customized business training in supervisory skills, communication, computer software, soldering, basic business math and English skills and other similar topics. See a complete list at www.sierracollegetraining.com . Classes can be offered at your worksite and tailored to your industry. Interested businesses may contact Sandra Scott, Economic Development Director, Sierra College , 916-781-6244.