Daley College

For Daley College students, the ‘Future of Illinois’ is not only bright, but it’s in 3D, too.

That’s because the Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing Department at the college was recently awarded one of eight ‘Future of Illinois’ grants by the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC). David Girzadas, Dean of Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing, and his team at Daley plan to use the grant funding to develop entry-level skills training programs focusing on industrial 3D printing.

According to Dean Girzadas, “3D printing is an exciting pathway to attract individuals to the world of manufacturing.”

Through a combination of theory and hands-on learning, he says the program will prepare students to begin their careers in 3D printing or develop new skills in advanced manufacturing. Activities will expose students to the manufacturing applications of 3D printing, job opportunities in the field, and the nature the industry in general.

Additionally, Daley College’s partnership with 3Degrees, a consulting company focused on 3D printing and materials science, will help to ensure class curriculum is designed to prepare students for the workforce.

While the ‘Future of Illinois’ may sound far away, Dean Girzadas and his team are getting straight to work to develop the 8-week program so it can be offered to students. Daley College will work with West Side Forward to recruit and support students in the program.

To learn more about Daley College’s offerings in manufacturing technology, visit https://www.ccc.edu/colleges/daley/departments/pages/manufacturing–technology.aspx.