The machine shop at the WE-MO-CO Career and Technical Education Center is in the process of becoming certified through the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS).

The purpose of the NIMS Certification program is to improve the quality of training in metalworking. NIMS develops skill standards as a means to ensure quality in training programs.

Last month, Machine Shop Instructors Al DiProspero and Pat Scarpulla successfully completed the first step of certification. They went through an extensive evaluation process consisting of machining six parts (to close tolerances) and nine hours of written examinations.

Next, a NIMS representative and area machine shop representatives will inspect the shop. Safety features, lighting, and the types of tooling and machining capabilities are some of the things that will be checked.

DiProspero and Scarpulla are hopeful that the certification process will be complete by June. Participating in a certified program ensures that students are held to the highest standards of machining. Students will receive certificates from NIMS upon satisfactory completion of the program.