Rodney Willis is opening doors for students to learn precision machining
Photos and story by Misty Bouse
The Machine Manufacturing Technology lab at Sylvania Campus.
Portland Community College is teaching the next generation of Oregon machinists.
Companies like Leupold & Stevens, Davis Tools, Stanley Black & Decker, Boeing and a myriad of small to intermediate machine shops throughout the state are in need of qualified and trained machinists. In an industry where there are many veteran employees retiring, there are big gaps to fill to keep manufacturing moving.
Rodney Willis, an alum and instructional support technician with PCC’s Machine Manufacturing Technology Program, has been in his position for almost 20 years on the Sylvania Campus.
“For skilled MMT students, there are plenty of good jobs waiting,” Willis said. “Just as soon as they graduate, they’ll likely find one or two.”
Willis is not only staff but is also an alum of the program.
He said there has been evolution in the industry and the program has evolved, offering both manual and computer numerical control (CNC) manufacturing that companies are looking for. This method automates the control, movement and precision of machine tools through the use of preprogrammed computer software that is embedded inside the tools. This high-tech integration is becoming the standard.
“First term students come and get a feel for the equipment,” said Willis who keeps the tool library pristine and the materials room orderly in addition to surveying the workshop space to ensure all feel assisted and welcome. “It’s OK and we teach them to keep safe. If it feels right and they can do the math needed, they stay. Some students also might learn it’s not for them.”
Willis, who operated CNC machinery for a Tektronix subsidiary before joining PCC, said the pinnacle of this hands-on craft is to be known as a “Tool and Dye” or an “R&D machinist.” With advancement in technology, the program is adapting and providing better access for students with an interest in new machines to get them to that pinnacle.
And, the program accommodates students from a wide range of backgrounds.
“We’ve seen some changes in who enrolls to be machinists,” Willis said. “We’re starting to get more women. We’ve also taught a deaf student who learned to operate the machines through vibrations. We’ve also built boxes to accommodate students who weren’t tall enough to reach the controls. We make it work so students can use the equipment safely.”
For more information visit https://www.pcc.edu/programs/machine-manufacturing/.
A 3-D diagram of a project students work on in the machining lab at Sylvania.
About Misty Bouse
A Portland Community College public relations specialist, Misty Bouse has been working in college advancement for a decade. A graduate of University of Oregon, Misty has worked as a managing editor for BUILDERNews Magazine and as a contribu... more »