Rapid digital manufacturing prepares students for work force
The goal of the rapid digital manufacturing department is to prepare students for a career in rapid prototype development. According to experts like Ed Tackett, director of the Saddleback College Advanced Technology Center, speed is the key to success and technology is the tool in modern business.
He sees the department as a way for both students and business professionals to get hands-on practice with these machines.
“Our job is to help students get better jobs,” Tackett said.
The devices at the center of the effort are rapid prototyping machines, which have the ability to shape and mold three-dimensional models by using computer generated designs.
To potential employers, these machines represent a faster, in-house alternative to hand-made prototypes. Skills involved in using these machines are highly sought after.
“About 40 percent of our students that are currently enrolled in the program are already in the workforce, and often come here because we have something that their company needs,” Tackett said.
For more information, visit http://www.saddleback.edu/atas/Rapid_Digital_Manufacturing/.