South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC) has been awarded Workforce Development Funds from the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges to support its High-Precision Manufacturing Initiative, further strengthening the college’s Machining Technologies program and preparing students for in-demand careers in advanced manufacturing.
SPSCC is one of 12 colleges statewide selected through a competitive process to receive funding for projects that address evolving industry needs, expand access to training, and support regional economic development.
The funding supported the acquisition of a 5-axis CNC milling machine, an industry-standard piece of equipment critical to modern manufacturing. The addition of this advanced technology ensures that students graduate with hands-on experience using tools and processes widely used in aerospace, precision manufacturing, and job shops throughout the region.
“The acquisition of a 5-axis CNC milling machine has significantly strengthened the Machining Technologies program at SPSCC by aligning instruction with the expectations of modern manufacturing employers,” said Jason Selwitz, SPSCC Dean of Applied Technology. “By integrating this industry-standard equipment into the curriculum, students gain hands-on experience producing complex, high-precision components while developing critical skills in multi-axis machining, setup, tooling selection, troubleshooting, and problem-solving.”
Selwitz added that the new equipment enhances students’ competitiveness in the job market by allowing them to demonstrate job-ready competencies rather than entry-level familiarity. It also supports the attainment of industry-recognized credentials and strengthens partnerships with regional employers who help shape curriculum and recruit SPSCC graduates.