Industrial Technology programs’ classes and labs will switch locations for better logistics and organization
When students in the Computer-Integrated Machining and Electrical Systems Technology programs at Gaston College return to the Dallas campus in 2021, their classes will meet in different locations than they do currently.
Machines and equipment used in the Computer-Integrated Machining program will move from the Pharr Trade and Industrial Building to the Center for Advanced Manufacturing, or CAM, which is located in the Gastonia Technology Park adjacent to the Dallas campus. CAM was designed to facilitate manufacturing training programs and the ability to easily reset a lab’s machinery and equipment; moving the Machining program utilizes the facility’s potential and aligns it with manufacturing programs of study.
The Machining program, which also teaches courses in the fundamentals of die, fixturing, and mold making, will occupy approximately 5000 square feet of the facility. The program strives to deliver work-ready machinists to the manufacturing sector, and it works with the Gaston College Apprenticeship 321 program to meet the needs of local manufacturing industries.
The Electrical Systems Technology program equipment is moving from its present space in the Pharr Building, or PTI, into the larger space vacated by Machining, leaving ample room for other program expansions. Alternative Energy classes, which had been held at CAM, will join the rest of the Electrical Systems Technology classes in PTI. Alternative, or renewable, energy is experiencing tremendous growth as an industry around the world. Gaston College is among the few programs in the region to offer a specialized certificate in renewable energy.
Relocating the machines and equipment between CAM and PTI will create a logical, organized floor plan for both facilities and better accommodate the needs of the programs.
The Gaston College Board of Trustees unanimously approved this relocation of machines and equipment on the recommendation of the College’s Facilities Committee. The move is expected to take place during the holiday break from December 22 through January 10, 2021.
About Gaston College Industrial Technology Programs
The Industrial Technologies programs provide training to prepare students to enter the workforce in Computer-Integrated Machining, and Electrical Systems, HVAC, Automotive Systems, General Occupational, Industrial Systems, and Welding Technologies. Graduates will have up-to-date technical knowledge and skills, and these programs also provide a way to continually upgrade and retrain the existing workforce to meet the changing needs of industries. Certificate, diploma, and associate degree programs are offered in day and evening classes. For more information about Industrial Technology Programs, contact Dr. Lisa Albright-Jurs, Dean of Career and Technical Education, at 704-922-2256 or jurs.lisa@gaston.edu.
