Haas Automation Donates New Equipment to NAIT

November 24, 2014
News Release
Management

The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), Edmonton, with the support of machine tool builder Haas Automation and its local Haas Factory Outlet (HFO) Thomas Skinner & Son, the western Canadian Haas distributor, has completed a large-scale expansion to support an increased volume of students and upgrade its CNC training curriculum.

“The need for skilled workers continues to rise and it is the responsibility of the business community to get involved and support trade and technology education,” said Ross McDonald, vice president of sales, Thomas Skinner & Son. “We have over 20 years of working with NAIT and look forward to providing continued support of their programs for many years to come.”

The new entrusted CNC equipment includes four CNC turning centers and 10 CNC vertical Mini Mills, raising the total number of entrusted Haas machines at NAIT to 30. This, combined with the purchase of 15 additional machines, brings the school’s total machine count to 70— the most CNC machines in any North American poly tech and making it the largest CNC training center in North America.

Thomas Skinner managed the project, including the machine configurations, installation, and training, and will provide ongoing on-site service.

“The need for an infusion of trained and talented people into our industry is at a critical level. Providing support to poly techs such as NAIT is a commitment we take very seriously. We are pleased to have been able to play a role in bridging the gap between the machining industry and education,” said Paul Krainer, president, Thomas Skinner & Son.

Thomas Skinner also worked with NAIT to provide guidance in purchasing the tooling required to make the most of the new machines. Suppliers include Sandvik Coromant, Mitutoyo, Sowa, Kar, and Lyndex Nikken.

“The new equipment allows students to learn new methods of increasing productivity and streamlining processes. As technology changes, we must adapt and move along with the changes or get left behind and become obsolete,” said Loyde Tober, chair—machinist, School of Trades for NAIT. “The addition of new equipment allows us to provide the handson training NAIT is widely recognized for and industry demands. The increased training capacity will help us fill the void of skilled workers we face now and in the upcoming years.”