“I received an offer for employment as a CNC operator at Transformix Engineering in Kingston. The position will include running and maintaining a CNC machine, with the possibility of becoming a programmer within a year or two. I would like to thank you, and Loyalist College, for helping me get the knowledge and skills I need to start my career.” This is a message recently received by faculty member John Poste – from Lucas Maines, a student in the Loyalist College Manufacturing Engineering Technician program. Lucas will receive his diploma at the college’s convocation ceremony in June and has already obtained full-time employment in his field.
Lucas graduated from St. Theresa Catholic Secondary School, took a year’s break, then entered the Welding Techniques program at Loyalist and graduated in 2009. He immediately enrolled in the Manufacturing Engineering Technician program. “I chose this program because I love computers and making things. This seemed the perfect opportunity to combine these interests in a career,” he explained. “We are the first year of students to study in the new Skills Centre and the atmosphere is wonderful. The faculty at Loyalist is great – helpful and knowledgeable. Now that I’m working in my field I realize how well they prepared me for this job – particularly the CNC and drafting aspects. One of the reasons I chose to accept this position is the potential for advancement within the company. I’m excited to be here and thank Loyalist for helping make that possible.”
Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machines are programmed to perform hundreds of different functions. They drill, cut and shape highly precise items that are used in numerous industries, such as automotive and aerospace. Computer control programmers and operators write and perform the operations that drive these machines, which include laser cutting equipment, drill presses, milling machines and lathes. They apply their expertise working with metals and plastics, and CNC programming abilities to design and complete the operations needed by a wide range of end users and customers.
Matthew Anfossie, a classmate of Lucas’, has also found employment and is working at Continental Conveyor in Napanee as a CNC operator. “I’m really pleased to have a job so close to my home in Odessa – with a company that continues to grow. The potential opportunity for me to grow within the organization is very appealing. This is a great position for me to start with and I’m excited to be here.”
“As a member of the college’s Manufacturing Engineering Technician, Mechanical Techniques and Welding Techniques Advisory Committee, it has been wonderful to watch the Sustainable Skills, Technology, and Life Sciences Centre take shape – and to witness the enthusiasm of the faculty and the students as they work and learn within this exceptional environment,” said Steve Martin, Materials Coordinator at Continental Conveyor and a 2008 graduate of Loyalist’s Manufacturing Engineering Technician program. Continental Conveyor currently employs eight Loyalist graduates. “Our company continues to grow and with that growth comes new technology. Loyalist students study and work on the latest equipment which enables them, as employees, to help us transition through our technology updates.”
For information about this and other programs in Loyalist’s School of Skills Training click here.