Connecticut State Community College Housatonic celebrated the renovation of its Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center (AMTC) in Bridgeport, Connecticut, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 16, 2025, supported by nearly $1 million in federal funding secured by Rep. Jim Himes. The upgraded 10,000-square-foot facility in Lafayette Hall features state-of-the-art equipment, including advanced CNC milling machines, lathes, and 3D printers, alongside two classrooms and a conference room. The AMTC’s nine-month certificate program trains students in precision manufacturing techniques, preparing them for high-demand roles at companies like Sikorsky, Electric Boat, and ASML. With a 96% retention rate and 100% job placement over the past five years, the program serves over 100 students annually, offering starting salaries of $35,000-$40,000. Partnerships with local manufacturers, such as FuelCell Energy, provide internships and direct job pipelines, addressing Connecticut’s 6,000+ open manufacturing jobs. CT State President John Maduko highlighted the center’s role in “equipping students for rewarding careers,” while Governor Ned Lamont praised its contribution to the state’s manufacturing workforce, which employs over 168,000 workers.

For the precision machining industry, the AMTC’s renovation underscores the critical role of CNC machining in workforce development. The center’s advanced CNC machines require high-precision components, such as tool holders and workholding fixtures, crafted with 5-axis milling and EDM to achieve sub-micron tolerances for reliable operation. Training students on these systems drives demand for machine shops to supply custom parts and tooling, integrating automation and real-time quality control to meet industry standards. The program’s focus on Industry 4.0 technologies, like AI-driven machining and digital twins, fosters innovation in lightweight alloys and additive manufacturing. As part of a $50 billion precision manufacturing market, the AMTC creates opportunities for suppliers in Southwestern Connecticut, where manufacturing output grew 2% since 2022, strengthening supply chains and advancing technical expertise for the state’s aerospace and defense sectors.

Source:

CT State Community College Press Release, April 16, 2025

Source:

News 12 Connecticut

Social Media Buzz (powered by X):

X is buzzing about Housatonic’s renovated AMTC, with posts on May 4, 2025, calling it a “launchpad” for Connecticut’s workforce. Users praised the 100% job placement, with one noting “students are landing jobs at Sikorsky and ASML,” while another highlighted “$1M federal boost for cutting-edge training.” The excitement reflects optimism for economic growth and skilled career paths.

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