Duke Energy Donates $28,000 to UC Clermont Manufacturing Engineering Program

Duke Energy has donated $28,000 to UC Clermont College for the purchase of a new lathe machine for the college’s Manufacturing Engineering Technology program.

“Economic and workforce development is a priority for the Duke Energy Foundation. We believe that targeting and supporting specific skilled-based programs in our community — like advanced manufacturing at UC Clermont — creates a more desirable workforce,” said Warren Walker of Duke Energy Community and Government Relations.

The machine will be located on the UC East campus, which houses UC Clermont’s Manufacturing Center. Students in the program use the manually operated lathe to drill and cut threads and cylinders in metal, aluminum and plastic. The new machine allows students to create and work with larger parts — up to 80 inches long and 20 inches in diameter — a step up from the program’s old lathe, which could only handle pieces up to 60 inches long and 16 inches wide.

“Because of Duke’s generosity, our students will be able to create larger parts,” said Dexter Hulse, professor of computer-aided design (CAD). Hulse added that the machine also has more horsepower and speed variability. “This gives students more experience to further prepare them for the workforce.”

Hulse said job demand for manufacturing engineering students is high. “We have standing invitations for students to work,” he said, adding that UC Clermont students regularly co-op with companies like CTI (a GE subcontractor), Milacron and Hydro systems. Manufacturing Engineering Technology encompasses all aspects of producing manufactured goods, from design concepts to product delivery—everything from Boeing 777s and microscopic nanobots to contact lenses and designer jeans. “There are not enough students in the pipeline to fill the demand from employers.”

UC Clermont Dean Jeff Bauer says that support from local businesses leads to a mutually beneficial relationship, with the college providing talent and skill, and firms providing the resources to train future employees. “We are grateful for Duke Energy’s gift to our Manufacturing Engineering Technology program,” Bauer said. “Donations like this help our students acquire the real-world skills they need to lead successful careers in their chosen fields.”

Learn more about UC Clermont’s

Manufacturing Engineering Technology program

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