Wytheville Community College (WCC) recently received a $25,000 grant award from the Gene Haas Foundation to continue its generous support of students’ success in the Machine Technology program. 

The grant will continue to support the direct needs of Machine Technology students. Previous funds provided by the Gene Haas Foundation have supported student scholarships and funding for certifications, tools, and other educational needs to assist students in completing the program.

A portion of the grant funds are allocated to help WCC students participate in competitions that highlight manufacturing skills such as Skills USA’s CNC competitions and robotic competitions. Since 2016, the Gene Haas Foundation has invested over $180,000 in WCC’s Machine Technology program. This year’s funding will continue to allow WCC to award Haas Foundation scholarships and help students continue to earn industry-recognized certifications.

“We are thankful for the continued partnership with the Gene Haas Foundation,” said Johnathon Ferguson, Machine Technology Program Head. “Their funding continues to make a positive impact on the lives of WCC Machine Technology students.”

The Gene Haas Foundation’s Education Division is committed to manufacturing education and introducing students to careers in machining and related technology.

Students may earn an Associate of Applied Science Degree (two years) in Machine Technology, or Career Studies Certificates in Machine Technology I and Machine Technology II (two semesters). Registration for the Spring Semester is underway. For more information about WCC’s Machine Technology program, visit www.wcc.vccs.edu/machinetech or contact Johnathon Ferguson at (276) 223-4786 or jferguson@wcc.vccs.edu.

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Pictured: WCC Machine Technology Students