BRTC Machine Tool instructor Rick Barker attended the Haas Technical Education Conference (HTEC) hosted by the Tennessee College of Applied Technology in Nashville, Tennessee. This conference provided opportunities to gain insight into best practices for teaching CNC machining, CAD, CAM, simulation, automation, metrology, and related technologies.
HTEC conferences include industry/educator roundtable sessions, partner presentations, lab tours and demonstrations, and panel discussions led by experts in the field. These conferences also provide a variety of project ideas technical education teachers can bring back to their classrooms. HTEC conferences are held all of the United States and Europe.
Barker was excited to attend the conference and attended on his own time without BRTC compensation. “HTEC conference has allowed me to bring the latest technology (in the manufacturing sector) back to share with my students,” said Barker. “I communicate with men and women across the globe via HTEC centers to learn the best strategies/methodologies to enhance my student’s learning opportunities.”
As a machine tool instructor, conferences like this can help faculty members identify current and future workforce skills needs and provide the resources for faculty to update classroom curriculum. Faculty also make contacts with industries needing employees with certain skills and can connect graduating students with these employers.
For more information about BRTC’s machine tool program, visit https://blackrivertech.org org or contact Mr. Barker at 870-248-4139.