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Tool Company Supports Educating Skilled Workers

Shana Leonard

On the heels of a rewarding experience in 2005, Sandvik Coromant (Fair Lawn, NJ; www.coromant.sandvik.com/us) will once again contribute to educating the nation's skilled workforce. The company has announced its return as a supporting organization for the 2006 SkillsUSA Championship in the field of precision machining technology.

The competition is comprised of state contest winners who have the opportunity to showcase their talents in their respective trades. Each contest assesses a contestant's grasp of necessary skills for an entry-level job in his or her field. Last year, 4600 students competed in 80 occupational and leadership areas that ran the gamut from culinary arts to firefighting to precision machining technology. The event is hosted by SkillsUSA, a nonprofit organization that prepares students and professionals for trade, technical, and skilled-service occupations.

"This competition is an opportunity for focused individuals to be recognized for their achievements," says Paul Leming, training specialist for Sandvik Coromant. "In the area of precision machining, it is an opportunity to educate participants about efficiency, productivity and profitability, which are all crucial to improving one's manufacturing process."

Sandvik Coromat provided tool packages for the precision machining contest, which required contenders to demonstrate adeptness in the operation of manual milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and surface grinders. In addition to the successful completion of these tasks according to National Institute for Metalworking Skills standards, proficiency in industry-related math and vocabulary were also evaluated. Sandvik donated tools to the top two competitors' schools.

The 2006 SkillsUSA Championships will be held June 21-22 in Kansas City, MO.

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