(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Texas State Technical College’s accelerated training solutions department at the Harlingen campus recently launched a weeklong America’s Cutting-Edge (ACE) computer numerical control (CNC) machining boot camp, an initiative designed to sharpen the skills of the regional workforce through a continued partnership with the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station (TEES).
The program served as a dual purpose: providing advanced technical training for current students and graduates of the Mechatronics and Precision Machining programs, while ensuring the Mechatronics faculty are fully prepared for the transition to the Advanced Manufacturing program at the Harlingen campus this fall.
The ACE curriculum is directly aligned with the evolving needs of the manufacturing industry. The collaboration ensures that hands-on lab training meets the industry standards expected by Texas manufacturers.
“This program helped show the participants who are unfamiliar with the machinist trade exactly what the industry expects,” said Daisy Novenario, a TSTC Precision Machining instructor. “Our lectures covered lab assignments such as measuring an instrument, part inspection, and CNC machine operation.”
Mario Castillo, a Mechatronics instructor, said mastering the new skills will directly benefit the upcoming Advanced Manufacturing program in Harlingen.
“We have learned how to program, code and other specialized areas that are beneficial for companies such as Toyota, Samsung and SpaceX,” he said.
Other participants included Laura Herrera, a recent Precision Machining graduate, who joined the boot camp to strengthen her resume for potential employers.
“I was able to work with the Mastercam software more,” she said. “It helps us become knowledgeable in designing, simulating and programming complex parts.”
Victor Salazar, a Mechatronics student from Brownsville, participated to gain a deeper familiarity with the CNC process for both his college projects and personal work.
“I have learned how to read code and I am now considering pursuing the Precision Machining program after participating in this program,” he said.
Students received an ACE certificate of completion for completing the bootcamp and were awarded 2.75 continuing education units recognized by the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation, TEES Workforce Development, and TSTC.
Registration for the fall semesters is now underway at TSTC. For more information, visit TSTC.edu.