Ferris State University’s College of Engineering Technology has been selected as one of only two institutions in Michigan to serve as a regional hub for America’s Cutting Edge (ACE), a federally funded workforce development initiative aimed at addressing the growing shortage of skilled computer numerical control (CNC) machining professionals in the United States.
The designation positions Ferris State at the forefront of advanced manufacturing workforce development by offering free, industry-focused CNC machining training to individuals aged 16 and above, regardless of prior experience. The program combines self-paced online learning with intensive hands-on instruction, helping participants build practical manufacturing skills that are increasingly in demand across the country’s industrial sector.
The first week-long bootcamp has commenced at the university’s Big Rapids campus, with a second session scheduled for August. Participants complete online coursework before attending 40 hours of practical training at the university’s Swan Building, where instruction is delivered in small groups with a five-to-one student-to-instructor ratio to ensure personalised learning.
Upon successful completion, participants receive an America’s Cutting Edge digital credential along with continuing education credits. Ferris State is also developing a pathway that will allow learners to apply the training toward an academic credential, creating additional opportunities for career advancement.
The national initiative is supported by the U.S. Department of Defense’s Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment Program and managed by IACMI – The Composites Institute. It seeks to strengthen the country’s manufacturing workforce as thousands of machining companies struggle to recruit qualified operators, engineers and designers.
Modern CNC machining has evolved into a highly technology-driven profession, requiring expertise in computer-aided manufacturing software, machine programming, automation and precision measurement. During the bootcamp, participants gain practical experience in CNC milling, turning, metrology, toolpath programming and machine setup before assembling a functional air pump using components they manufacture throughout the course.
Ferris State’s selection followed a comprehensive evaluation of its manufacturing laboratories, equipment and instructional capabilities. The university has also upgraded its CNC machining infrastructure with advanced touch and tool probing technologies to support the program, while faculty members completed specialised certification training to deliver the nationally recognised curriculum.
With more than five decades of experience in technical education, Ferris State has established a strong reputation in manufacturing and engineering education. The College of Engineering Technology offers a broad portfolio of undergraduate and associate degree programs spanning manufacturing technology, welding engineering technology, computer-aided design and other advanced industrial disciplines.
As Michigan’s regional ACE hub, Ferris State will also support future partner institutions across the state’s Lower Peninsula, helping expand access to CNC workforce training while strengthening the talent pipeline for the manufacturing sector. The university expects the program to exceed its initial enrollment targets well ahead of schedule, underscoring growing interest in advanced manufacturing careers and the increasing demand for skilled CNC professionals.
