Rocky Mount, NC - Nash Community College recently opened the doors of a new laboratory for a special tour by North Carolina Community College System Office officials. Located in the Zifferer Family New Standard Corporation Computer-Integrated Machining Lab, a new state-of-the-art robot performed systematic processes for the group.

The College recently purchased the new robotic equipment with the assistance of a $200,000 GoldenLEAF grant. The Advanced Flexible Integrated Manufacturing (AFIM) System, which is used to simulate on-the-job experiences, includes a vertical machining center, turning center, industrial robot, integrated programmable logic controller (PLC), and base unit with inventory stocking system. 

Nash Community College's Computer-Integrated Machining Technology and Electrical/Electronics Technology programs will use the system to teach robotics, PLC, process control, factory automation training, advanced automated machining technologies and production simulation. Both programs will work on projects at the same time, providing cross-disciplinary interaction and teamwork while applying Lean Manufacturing principles. 

"Not only will our students learn real-world manufacturing applications, but the local community will benefit as well," NCC Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies Department Chair Gary Blackburn said. "Access to the new equipment will help provide a workforce for existing manufacturers in our region that have demonstrated need for this training capacity and will assist in attracting high tech industries that require a highly skilled workforce."

Nash Community College instructors completed Certified Education Robot Training (CERT) in order to provide student training in the set-up, programming, and operation of industrial robots, ultimately leading to Fanuc Robotic certification. Fanuc is an industry leader in industrial robotics and factory automation solutions and controller software. In addition, NCC instructors are certified to offer program participants an Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) 30-Hour General Industry certification, an industry-recognized credential related to industrial safety.

For more information on Nash Community College's Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies programs, visit www.nashcc.edu/EMTech or contact Gary Blackburn at 252-451-8285 or

Pictured: Front row, left to right: NCC Computer-Integrated Machining Instructor George Shook, NC Community College System Executive Vice President & Chief Of Staff Kennon Briggs, NC Community College System President Scott Ralls, State Board of Community Colleges Member Norma Turnage, NC Community College System Senior Vice President/Chief Academic Officer Dr. Sharon Morrissey and NCC President Bill Carver. Back row, left to right: NCC Engineering & Manufacturing Technologies Department Chair Gary Blackburn, NCC Trustee Danny Tyson, NCC Computer-Integrated Machining Instructor Justin Cole, NCC Robotics Professor Tim Brown and NCC Trustees Chair Bill Marshburn.

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Media Contact:

Kelley Deal
Nash Community College
Public Relations Director
252-451-8235