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Transfer Pathway Established for Integrated Machining Technology Students

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Transfer Pathway Established for Integrated Machining Technology Students

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.”

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.”

 

The Power of Hands-On Learning

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.”

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Ninth IMT Cohort Graduates

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

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.

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IALR Employee Elected to National Haas Technical Education Community Council (HTEC)

IALR Employee Elected to National Haas Technical Education Community Council (HTEC)

IALR employee Amanda Hylton was recently elected to the National Haas Technical Educators Community Council, which promotes and advances manufacturing productivity through excellence in manufacturing education. Focusing on grant development, Hylton will support the solicitation and selection of workshops and sessions for conferences that will help educators understand the funding opportunities to further their programs.

Hylton is the Vice President of Strategic Initiatives within IALR’s Manufacturing Advancement division.

“With the rapidly changing landscape of manufacturing, the constraints of tight budgets make it difficult for educators to integrate new and emerging technologies into training. I have a strong desire to help and support educators in learning how to ‘dream big’ and find ways to strengthen partnerships that help make those dreams a reality. I hope that by being elected to serve this year, I can find ways to share my passion for helping others learn how to be successful in securing support and funding for their programs.” – Amanda Hylton, Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, IALR

HTEC hosts an annual national conference, as well as numerous regional conferences throughout the country. Hylton was a part of the planning team that hosted the Annual Conference in Danville in 2018, and presented a session on finding, writing and winning grants during that conference.

IALR shares a rich history of collaboration with HTEC. IALR’s Gene Haas Center for Integrated Machining is one of four Gene Haas Foundation Teacher Training program sites in the country. Through a partnership with HTEC and Danville Community College, the center trains high school and community college instructors for the growing field of precision machining and provides certification opportunities for instructors, veterans, incumbent workers and adult learners. The Center also houses the Integrated Machining Technology (IMT) program, which helps those who have completed a two-year precision machining program take their advanced machining skills and knowledge to the next level.

Angela Rigney, Director of Career & Technical Education with Pittsylvania County Schools, was also elected to the council this year, focusing on middle school manufacturing education.

 

KYOCERA ‘Signs’ Integrated Machining Interns as New Employees

KYOCERA ‘Signs’ Integrated Machining Interns as New Employees

Manufacturer of high-performance cutting tools leverages Danville-Pittsylvania advanced manufacturing pipeline for high-quality workforce needs

DANVILLE, Virginia – (April 7, 2022) – KYOCERA SGS Tech Hub has hired three student interns who recently graduated from the Integrated Machining Technology (IMT) third-year capstone program, instructed by Danville Community College (DCC) and housed and financed by the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR).

Students Jonathan Gauldin, Bobby Moran and Joel Oakes celebrated the occasion with KYOCERA by participating in a signing ceremony at the Gene Haas Center for Integrated Machining where they received their training. Gauldin, Moran and Oakes will start on April 11 as Setup A technicians, one of KYOCERA’s highest-level grinding positions. They will join Josh Owen, another IMT graduate, who started at KYOCERA as a Setup C technician on April 4.

“To thrive in a highly competitive global market, there needs to be a system in place that creates a workforce for our future,” said Jason Wells, president of KYOCERA SGS Tech Hub. “The unparalleled training and education that Danville Community College and the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research have established, allow companies such as KYOCERA to focus on our core business and growth with less focus on skill development. Our elected officials, community leaders, educators and local citizens have put in the hard work to address skilled workforce development needs.”

Kyocera signs interns as employees

L-R, front row: Joel Oakes, Bobby Moran and Jonathan Gauldin; back row: David Gauldin and Jason Wells (KYOCERA SGS Tech Hub), Troy Simpson (IALR), Josh McDowell and Joe Distad (Danville Community College), and Dylan Hardy (IALR)

The IMT program serves as an optional third year of advanced training for completers of two-year precision machining programs or for those with equivalent work experience. The hands-on instruction by DCC takes seven months and is set in a flow cell environment to build true-to-life advanced manufacturing experience and leadership skills. A 90-hour internship fulfills requirements for an associate degree.

“DCC, in partnership with the IALR, is proud to be a leader in the creation of talent for Pittsylvania County and the surrounding region,” said Dr. Muriel Mickles, interim president at DCC. “The IMT capstone program is an excellent example of many ways DCC is supporting the growth of the manufacturing industry here in Danville while ensuring exciting, high-paying jobs for our students.”

The success of the IMT program has grown since its inception in 2015. Noted by Virginia and Arkansas governors and other localities as a benchmark model, the program also helped seal the win of the location bid for the 2018 Haas Technical Education Center Americas CNC Educators Conference. A team of students won last year’s Project MFG National Skilled Trade Championship, and others have won medals at the SkillsUSA Championships.

“The Integrated Machining Technology program is a key aspect of the progressive talent pipeline the Danville-Pittsylvania County region has championed to attract and retain high-performance jobs and industry like KYOCERA,” said Troy Simpson, director of advanced manufacturing for IALR. “We continue to work with KYOCERA and other companies to ensure the curriculum of DCC and the facilities housed and financed by IALR are state of the art and industry-driven.”

Gauldin, Moran and Oakes will bring the following industry-recognized credentials to their new positions at KYOCERA: MCOSMOS C1 and C2, a cutting technology certificate and the Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt. Other employers who have benefited from these credentialed IMT graduates in the past include FasTech, Piedmont Precision Machine, the Naval Surface Warfare Center, BWX Technologies and others.

“I am extremely proud of all our Integrated Machining Technology graduates and congratulate Jonathan, Bobby, Joel and Josh on their new journey with such an impactful industry as KYOCERA,” said Dr. Betty Jo Foster, interim president at IALR. “I hope their path to successful employment is an example and inspiration to other youth in our area who seek high-quality jobs and meaningful careers. The partnership between DCC, IALR and industry like KYOCERA offers hands-on instruction that leads to job opportunities for our community and workforce solutions for advanced manufacturers.”

KYOCERA has actively supported the region’s talent development efforts. Wells serves in multiple board positions, including the advisory boards for both Danville Community College’s workforce services programs and the Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (GO TEC™) program, a GO Virginia-supported program administered by IALR that educates and trains middle schoolers to post-secondary students on relevant career pathways.

In September 2016, KYOCERA SGS Tech Hub announced it would invest $9.5 million and bring 35 new jobs paying an average annual salary of $65,000 to the Cyber Park, a technology park jointly owned by the City of Danville and Pittsylvania County through the Danville-Pittsylvania Regional Industrial Facility Authority (RIFA).

The company broke ground in the spring of 2017 on the 30,000-square-foot manufacturing and research hub, which was designed and constructed by Blair Construction and sits on 10 acres directly across from the campus of IALR. The grand opening was celebrated in September 2019.

For additional photos of the KYOCERA signing ceremony for the three interns/new recruits, visit: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjzJLCB.