The June 2025 edition of IALR at a Glance is packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
- GO TEC Experience Expanding for ’25-’26 School Year
- Connect with IALR’s Apprenticeship Experts!
- Watch updates from IALR
- Much more!
Tenth IMT Cohort Graduates
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) and Danville Community College (DCC) are pleased to announce the graduation of the 10th cohort of the Integrated Machining Technology (IMT) program. Over several months, these 14 students refined advanced machining skills while embracing vital leadership and problem-solving practices, preparing them for high-demand roles in today’s modern manufacturing sector.
The IMT program is a collaborative effort between DCC and IALR, offering a capstone-style experience that pushes students beyond typical classroom training. They spend time in a simulated “flow cell,” juggling everything from ordering raw materials and scheduling machine operations to conducting inspections on finished products. By taking full responsibility for every stage of production, they gain a strong command of multi-axis CNC programming, Lean/Six Sigma principles and effective teamwork and leadership strategies.
“We see each cohort of IMT students taking real responsibility for the entire manufacturing process, from idea to final inspection. That level of ownership produces confident, capable graduates who are ready to make a difference in advanced manufacturing. IMT graduates train on the latest equipment with industry-informed curriculum, generating the ideal pipeline for career-ready talent.” – Jason Wells, Executive Vice President of Manufacturing Advancement at IALR
“The success of our Integrated Machining Technology graduates reflects the power of hands-on education, industry partnership, and student determination,” said Dr. Cornelius Johnson, Interim President of Danville Community College. “These graduates are stepping into high-demand careers with the skills and confidence to make an immediate impact. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and the role they will play in strengthening our regional workforce.
Throughout the program, students also sharpen soft skills like teamwork, conflict resolution and leadership—competencies that set them apart as they enter their careers.
Graduates of IMT often move on to rewarding positions across industries such as aerospace, automotive and defense. Many choose to stay in Southern Virginia, where their expertise bolsters local companies and helps drive economic development. Over its 10-year history, the IMT program has produced a total of 160 graduates with the skills to positively impact the workforce of regional manufacturing companies.
“This program prepares us for those advancements in technology and manufacturing,” said Parker Turpin, who will be working in a local machine shop. “The program raises the bar higher and higher to prepare students for the actual workforce.”
“It’s definitely been beneficial learning the different manufacturing techniques,” said Jackson Wiles, who is interviewing with multiple companies. “We learned more about the coordinate measuring machines, and I became familiar with three plus two machining, five-axis machining and advanced tool paths.”
MEP—an aerospace firm in IALR’s rapid‑launch space—hired a 2024 IMT graduate full‑time, then took on a 2025 cohort member part‑time during the program; that student now joins MEP full‑time after graduation.
“The complexity of the work we do at MEP can be demanding, even for experienced CNC machinists, but our IMT students hit the ground running,” said Forrest Ashworth, Operations Manager with MEP. “Their problem-solving abilities, positive attitude, and willingness to go the extra mile have made them strong assets to our team. IMT graduates bring a high level of skill, dedication and professionalism that aligns perfectly with our mission at MEP.”
Founded a decade ago to meet an urgent regional need for higher‑level machining talent, IMT was shaped by local industry and education leaders who saw advanced skills as the key to economic growth. IMT is one of several training programs supported and administered by IALR’s Manufacturing Advancement division.
“We were looking at what would give us a competitive advantage as a region. A group of thought leaders saw that a skilled workforce would be that competitive advantage,” said Troy Simpson, who helped launch the program and later led IALR’s Manufacturing Advancement division.
About IALR
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation with applied research, advanced learning, manufacturing advancement, conference center services and economic development efforts. IALR’s major footprint focuses on Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg and the cities of Martinsville and Danville.
About dcc
Danville Community College is a two-year institution of higher education under the statewide Virginia Community College System. DCC’s service area includes the City of Danville, Pittsylvania County and Halifax County. For more information about the College’s programs of study, visit www.danville.edu.
Transfer Pathway Established for Integrated Machining Technology Students
Danville Community College (DCC) and Old Dominion University (ODU) inked an agreement at a signing event on April 18, 2025, that establishes a seamless transfer pathway for students enrolled in DCC’s Integrated Machining Technology (IMT) Program to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology with a concentration in Manufacturing Engineering Technology at ODU. IMT is a nationally acclaimed advanced third-year training program instructed by DCC and housed and financed by the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR).
Under this agreement, students who complete the Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Integrated Machining Technology via the DCC-IALR partnership will be eligible to transfer approximately 70 course credits to ODU. Students will then complete an additional 71-74 credits at ODU to earn their bachelor’s degree, creating a streamlined, cost-effective educational pathway for those seeking advanced credentials in the manufacturing field.
“This agreement represents an incredible opportunity for our students to build on the high-level technical skills they’ve gained in DCC’s Integrated Machining Technology program and take the next step toward leadership and innovation in advanced manufacturing,” said Melissa Mann, Dean of Career and Technical Education at Danville Community College. “We are proud to partner with Old Dominion University to provide our graduates with a clear, attainable route to a bachelor’s degree.”
From left to right: Dr. Vukica Jovanovic, Chair of the Department of Engineering Technology, Old Dominion University; DCC Interim President Cornelius Johnson; DCC Dean of Career and Technical Education Melissa Mann; IALR Vice President of Strategic Initiatives Amanda Hylton; IALR Executive Vice President of Manufacturing Advancement Jason Wells; IALR President Telly Tucker.
The agreement is designed to eliminate transfer barriers, promote academic progression, and support the growing demand for highly trained professionals in Virginia’s manufacturing sector.
Dr. Gabriel Olmstead, Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs & Student Services at DCC, emphasized the impact of the agreement on workforce development:
“This transfer pathway not only supports our students’ academic goals, but also strengthens the regional and statewide workforce by preparing highly skilled, credentialed graduates ready to lead in advanced manufacturing environments.”
Dr. Cornelius Johnson, Interim President of Danville Community College, celebrated the partnership as a step forward in higher education collaboration. “We are deeply grateful for this partnership with Old Dominion University and the IALR. Together, we are investing in students, in innovation, and in the future of Virginia’s economy,” said Johnson. “This agreement exemplifies what can be achieved when institutions come together with a shared vision for student success.”
“This partnership with ODU validates the high level of training our students receive in the Integrated Machining Technology program,” said Brandon Furgurson, IMT Professor at Danville Community College. “It’s a great feeling to know that our graduates can now transition directly into a bachelor’s degree program that builds on their hands-on experience and prepares them for advanced roles in the manufacturing industry.”
“As an electrician myself, I strongly believe in creating accessible engineering pathways and promoting affordable education that allows students to graduate with less debt,” said Dr. Vukica Jovanovic, Chair and Full Professor for the Department of Engineering Technology at Frank Batten College of Engineering and Technology at ODU. “We’re proud to support alternative routes to becoming engineers through our degree completion programs – especially programs like Manufacturing Engineering Technology, which are available through ODU Global.”
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The first of its kind in Virginia, ODU’s Manufacturing Engineering Technology degree pathway originally launched in 2022 as part of the Virginia Maritime Industrial Base Consortium’s (VMIBC) “Talent Pipeline Initiative.” VMIBC includes ODU, IALR, DCC, Patrick & Henry Community College (P&HCC) and others. P&HCC worked with ODU to develop the associate degree curriculum for the Virginia Community College System, and IALR is continuing discussions with ODU to provide future on-site classes in support of the program. IALR also houses and finances IMT, instructed by DCC and the latest pathway addition for the associate and bachelor’s degrees.
“Our partnership with DCC to deliver the IMT program has contributed a phenomenal impact – from enhancing students’ lives with high-paying jobs to meeting industry’s need for a high-quality workforce,” said Telly Tucker, President, IALR. “Helping both of these groups excel even further, thanks to ODU and others, will be a tremendous asset for our region – one we look forward to making more accessible in the coming years.”
This articulation agreement is now in effect and will apply to all students currently enrolled in or entering the DCC Integrated Machining Technology program at IALR who wish to pursue further study with ODU.
“This new transfer pathway builds on the strong foundation we’ve already established through our partnerships with local K-12 programs like George Washington High School and the Pittsylvania Career and Technical Center,” said Kevin Poole, Precision Machining Technology Professor at Danville Community College. “Now, students who begin their training in high school can see a direct line to a bachelor’s degree and a rewarding career in advanced manufacturing. It’s a full-circle opportunity that sets them up for long-term success.”
“This transfer agreement gives our students a clear path to continue growing both academically and professionally,” said Joshua McDowell, Precision Machining Instructor at Danville Community College. “They’re not just learning to run machines—they’re developing the foundation to become the next generation of manufacturing engineers and industry leaders.”
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IALR March 2025 Newsletter
The March 2025 edition of IALR at a Glance is packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
- The 10-year impact and legacy of the Integrated Machining and Technology program
- Support for apprenticeship programs in different sectors
- Hands-on Learning
- IALR Internships
- Much more!
The Power of Hands-On Learning
Effective learning blends theoretical instruction with real-world application. At the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR), hands-on training is a core principle across diverse programs.
“Theory is important, and it has value. However, my years working in and with educators has taught me that most learners are visual kinesthetic learners, and the most impactful learning tends to be hands-on learning.” – Telly Tucker, IALR President
This approach equips participants with practical skills and boosts their confidence in real job environments. Whether middle school students or seasoned adults, participants walk away with experiences they can immediately apply.
GO TEC: Sparking Early Curiosity
The Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (GO TEC®) program exposes middle school students to the emerging technologies shaping tomorrow’s industries. Students learn about and, more importantly, get to practice with virtual reality welding tools, desktop CNC mills, different types of robots and much more, offering a direct glimpse into in-demand careers.
“Middle school is the perfect time to spark a lasting interest in STEM. Getting to touch and try these business-relevant technologies shows that advanced concepts and careers are within reach.” – Julie Brown, Ph.D., Vice President of Advanced Learning
Dual-Enrollment Momentum
Dual-enrollment students in the Academy for Engineering and Technology (AET)—a collaboration with Danville Community College and the local school divisions—learn concepts in the classroom and apply them immediately. This balance of theory and application strengthens their problem-solving abilities and prepares them for modern challenges.
“We’ve seen impressive results when students can test what they learn right away,” Dr. Brown says. “That combination pushes them to think critically and perform with confidence.”
IALR also houses students in the Piedmont Governor’s School for Mathematics, Science, and Technology. Every year, seniors in this program participate in a senior research project, some seeking support from IALR’s Applied Research division.
ATDM: Accelerated Skills for Adults
Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) equips adult learners with the skills needed to work with Navy suppliers in the Maritime Industrial Base. In just four months, participants build foundational knowledge and participate in hundreds of hours of hands-on practice with actual machinery.
“ATDM bridges the gap between classroom insights and real-world shop floors. Graduates leave ready to excel in high-demand defense manufacturing roles.” – Jason Wells, Executive Vice President of Manufacturing Advancement
IMT: Real Manufacturing Responsibilities
In the Integrated Machining Technology (IMT) program, developed with Danville Community College, students face the pressure of meeting manufacturing quotas and deadlines. This setup mirrors the intensity of a true manufacturing environment.
“It’s a simulated manufacturing flow cell,” Wells said. “We put these students in a position to practice how all the pieces they’ve learned come together.”
Intensive Workshops
IALR also hosts shorter programs on topics like Fanuc robotics, precision machining for instructors and industrial fermentation. These workshops blend conceptual lessons with live experimentation in a condensed timeframe.
“Our recent industrial fermentation workshop revealed how hands-on demos deepen understanding. When participants participate in the process, they gain a better understanding.” – Scott Lowman, Ph.D., Vice President of Applied Research, IALR
Lifelong Learning
The journey does not end with a certificate or first job. Through various computer training workshops and the Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning, people can refresh their skills or discover new interests at any stage.
IALR’s commitment to lifelong learning and service learning opens pathways for professionals and hobbyists alike.
Why Hands-On Learning Matters
From virtual reality welding in GO TEC® to advanced precision machining in IMT, practical immersion helps learners of all ages gain a deeper understanding. Hands-on learning is particularly beneficial in the STEM fields, as shown by many different studies, including from Purdue University and the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. With IALR’s goal of expanding STEM Capacity, this focus on hands-on, practical learning is what drives success.
“Practical experiences let learners see immediate results,” Tucker says. “When students engage directly, they become more prepared for today’s job market.”
Connect with IALR
Ninth IMT Cohort Graduates
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) and Danville Community College (DCC) are proud to announce the graduation of the ninth cohort of the Integrated Machining Technology (IMT) program. A collaborative effort between DCC and IALR, this program is available to students who have completed a two-year precision machining program or who have equivalent work experience and want to further their skills and leadership potential.
These nine students completed the seven-month program at the end of March.
“The DCC Career & Technical Education division congratulates the 2024 IMT program graduates, We are proud of their hard work and are excited for their journey into the field of Integrated Machining. These students have exhibited the necessary skills and preparedness to illustrate they have what it takes to excel in the industry. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the IALR for their contributions to the program. Our continued partnership allows DCC and the IALR to create unique educational opportunities, like IMT, in our community and region.” – Melissa Mann, Dean of Career & Technical Education at Danville Community College
“We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of our ninth cohort of IMT graduates. These students have worked hard to develop the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the manufacturing industry, and we are confident that they will make valuable contributions to the workforce. I am grateful for the unique partnership between IALR and DCC that has allowed us to collectively drive economic growth and create opportunity.” – Telly Tucker, IALR President
The IMT program provides students with comprehensive instruction in machining technology, preparing them for careers in industries such as aerospace, automotive and medical equipment manufacturing. Through a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on training with state-of-the-art equipment, students gain practical skills in blueprint reading, CNC programming, precision measurement and more.
The classes are set in a flow cell environment with hands-on training that matches industry’s needs, providing students with a unique opportunity to develop practical skills in a real-world setting. The program emphasizes soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, ensuring that graduates are well-rounded and prepared to excel in today’s competitive workforce.
As the ninth cohort completes their training, they join the ranks of previous graduates who have gone on to secure rewarding careers in machining and manufacturing. Many graduates have found employment at leading companies in the region, contributing to the growth and success of the local economy.
Two of the graduates in this cohort have joined the team at IALR. Austyn Roten joined the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program as a Precision Manufacturing Technician while Holly Lyle now works as a Metrology Technician for ATDM.
“I learned a lot going through IMT. The instructor pushed us to learn more about what we weren’t confident in and encouraged us in what we excelled at. I originally wasn’t planning on doing IMT after I graduated from DCC, but I am very glad I did.” – Holly Lyle, ATDM Metrology Technician, IMT Graduate
About IALR
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation through applied research, advanced learning, manufacturing advancement, conference center services and economic development efforts. IALR’s major footprint focuses within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville. Learn more.
About DCC
Danville Community College is a two-year institution of higher education under the state-wide Virginia Community College System. DCC’s service area includes the City of Danville, Pittsylvania County, and Halifax County. For more information about the College’s programs of study, visit www.danville.edu.
Tour of IALR – Manufacturing Advancement
Join us for a free guided group tour of the manufacturing workforce development programs and industry solutions on the campus of the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR). Discover our impact and explore our innovative training facilities and cutting-edge optimization and support services. Our Manufacturing Advancement division focuses on meeting and exceeding the optimization and workforce needs of new and existing industry.
This one-hour tour will include a brief overview of IALR before a deep dive into the focus areas of our Manufacturing Advancement division. Participants will see:
- The Center for Manufacturing Advancement, which allows advanced manufacturing companies to collaborate and enhance processes, improve quality, and more.
- Several labs from the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program, which quickly trains qualified candidates in essential manufacturing skills and trades that will help the United States Navy build submarines.
- The Naval Aviation School for Additive Manufacturing (NASAM), a new, six-week program that provides active-duty Navy sailors and marines with foundational skills in additive manufacturing
- The Gene Haas Center for Integrated Machining, which houses both CNC Teacher Training for high school and community college instructors and the Integrated Machining Technology program – a third-year program that takes advanced machining skills training and knowledge to the next level.
