The Gateway Community College (GCC) GREAT Center recently received an $8,000 grant from the Gene Haas Foundation to provide scholarships for manufacturing students.

Scholarships will support GCC students seeking NIMS credentialing on measurement, materials, and safety.  The credential is useful for students seeking employment in the manufacturing industry or working in the field in an entry level position and looking to increase their skills for career advancement.  Certification validates that an individual has the knowledge of standard steel classifications and numbering systems, precision measuring devices, shop and machine safety, and general machining practices and inspection techniques. 

NIMS, the National Institute for Manufacturing Skills, was established by the leading metalworking trade associations to develop and maintain a globally competitive American workforce.  NIMS operates under rigorous and highly disciplined processes and is the only developer of American National Standards for the nation’s metalworking industry accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

NIMS certifies skills against national standards.  Candidates for credentialing must meet performance and theory requirements and exams are industry-designed.  The credentials are used in hiring and promoting workers.