“They’re so computer literate-it’s amazing what the kids can do.” “I am fluent in Mastercam, but every semester a student will teach me something new,” said Fox. The students learned quickly, and their instructor picked up a few things along the way. For an initial assignment, Butler students designed and machined key chains shaped like their school mascot. They study toolpaths and use Mastercam Backplot and Verify utilities to check tool motion. Students draw boxes then learn to set grids and ribbon bars. To introduce high school students to CAD/CAM, Fox keeps things simple at first. “I tell them to just work hard, they will get their chance…They get so excited when they see Mastercam.” “The students who are waiting get impatient for their turns,” said Fox. With 28 students doubling up to use the software, others must wait to get programming time. To support its design and CNC machining curriculum, the school purchased seats of Mastercam. Butler Tech is doing its part to fill those employment gaps by preparing students for manufacturing careers. As the nation’s workforce reaches retirement age, companies must find ways to attract, train, and retain the next generations. That dire need is a direct result of the “silver tsunami” that is taking manufacturing and a slew of other American industries by storm. “Employers were saying, ‘Let’s get some grant money for this program-we are in dire need of machinists.’” “Companies are excited to help out,” said Fox. The machine setup was donated by local manufacturers. Grinders, mills, lathes, CNC machining centers, and simulators round out the classroom. The shop includes a CNC laboratory area equipped with CAD/CAM software, simulated programming, and manual machine areas. Since the renovation, Butler Tech’s enrollment of 18 students per year jumped to 42. Thanks to government grant money and donations from area manufacturers, Butler Tech renovated its entire shop, which is a big draw for Colerain High School students. “And of course, they love Mastercam because they can do so much with it.” “We usually have seven or eight guys rotating between the groups, learning manual and CNC lathe, CNC mill, and CAD/CAM-all at the same time,” said Fox. To design parts and run their machines, Butler Tech students use Mastercam. Next comes operating manual mills and lathes followed by advanced manufacturing skills, namely CNC programming and machining. His students begin the machining program with the basics: micrometers, calipers, and blueprints. The Mars Society Rover Challenge Seriesĭavid Fox, Butler Tech instructor, heads the popular program at the Colerain High School Career Center.Robotics Education & Competition Foundation (REC).
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