Northwood Tech’s Manufacturing programs equip graduates with cutting-edge skills and safety practices, providing local businesses with a valuable resource for hiring and upskilling talent to meet the demands of the industry.
Preparing for Success in a Fast-Paced Industry
In today’s rapidly evolving industrial world, having a workforce equipped with essential technical skills is crucial for businesses to remain competitive. Northwood Technical College addresses this need with strong manufacturing programs in welding, industrial maintenance technician and machine tool technician.
These programs are designed to serve both future technicians and local companies seeking skilled employees. By adhering to industry standards and providing hands-on training, Northwood Tech ensures that graduates are well-prepared to excel in various manufacturing roles and make a significant impact in the region’s workforce.
Putting Students First: Building Careers and Futures
At Northwood Tech, putting students first is at the core of everything we do. This commitment guarantees that students receive the resources, support and opportunities they need to succeed in the classroom and their future careers. Through personalized instruction, cutting-edge equipment and a focus on real-world skills, Northwood Tech prepares students to meet the demands of the manufacturing industry.
In addition to technical expertise, the program emphasizes the development of essential employability skills such as attention to detail, teamwork, communication, a positive attitude and a strong work ethic – all highly valued by employers. By prioritizing student success, Northwood Tech ensures graduates are not only proficient in their trade but also equipped with the qualities needed to thrive in the workplace.
Mastering Industrial Maintenance: Keep Manufacturing Running Smoothly
Industrial maintenance is a critical profession that keeps manufacturers operating smoothly, regardless of industry or company size. Skilled industrial maintenance technicians are in high demand, as businesses depend on them to ensure equipment and systems run efficiently. Northwood Technical College’s Industrial Maintenance Technician program provides hands-on training in welding, hydraulics, machining, plumbing, electricity, and mechanical maintenance, preparing graduates to handle the challenges of modern industrial environments.
Graduates are trained to perform safe work, install and maintain equipment, troubleshoot and repair systems, and effectively communicate technical information. The program’s focus on real-world applications and teamwork ensures graduates are ready for the collaborative settings common in manufacturing. Spanning four semesters, the curriculum covers skills from machining and fabrication to fluid power, making graduates versatile and ready to meet the evolving needs of manufacturers.
Sharpening Skills in the Machine Tool Industry
The Machine Tool Technician program at Northwood Tech equips students with hands-on skills needed in today’s machining industry. This two-year program prepares graduates to operate and set up machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders, to produce precision metal parts. Students develop expertise in areas like production planning, quality control, and precision measuring, and learn to interpret industrial drawings and operate both manual and CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines.
Forging a Pathway to a Career in Welding
Northwood Tech’s Welding program is a one-year technical diploma that’s part of a flexible pathway, allowing students to tailor their skills to their career goals. Before earning the Welding/Maintenance and Fabrication diploma, students can complete technical diplomas in Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW). This pathway helps graduates develop specialized skills in various welding techniques, making them adaptable to industry needs.
Power Up Your Business with Northwood Tech Graduates
Partnering with Northwood Tech’s manufacturing programs offers local businesses a valuable opportunity to enhance their workforce. Whether upskilling current employees or hiring new talent, these programs produce well-trained, safety-conscious professionals ready to make an impact immediately. Supporting workforce education through Northwood Tech helps businesses increase productivity, minimize disruptions,and stay competitive. It also ensures a steady stream of qualified professionals to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
Celebrate Manufacturing Day at Northwood Tech
On October 24, 2024, from 9 a.m. until noon, Northwood Tech will host Manufacturing Day on its Superior campus to celebrate Manufacturing Month. The event will highlight the college’s Manufacturing programs with tours of high-tech labs and opportunities to meet instructors and hear from industry professionals about their experiences in the field.
Dan Miller, Associate Dean of Workforce & Community Development, will be available after 10 a.m. to discuss customized training options for businesses interested in upskilling their workforce.
Miller would like businesses and employers to know, “We can provide customized training solutions for your business. We can assess your exact needs and then provide flexible training options that are tailored to your needs at a time and place most convenient for you. We look forward to the opportunity to strengthen your staff and our communities.”
For those unable to attend, information about training opportunities can be obtained by contacting Dan Miller at Dan.Miller@NorthwoodTech.edu or 715.319.7335.





