Vincennes University and Hurco Companies Partner

Hurco Companies, Inc., an Indiana company that designs and manufactures computerized metal cutting machines, and Vincennes University (VU), Indiana’s first college, have formed a partnership that will further manufacturing education in Indiana. The VU College of Technology has chosen Hurco as their Computer Numeric Controlled (CNC) machine tool of choice.  Students pursuing a degree in Precision Machining Technology will benefit from the most advanced machining technology available with access to 15 state-of-the-art Hurco CNC machine tools.

VU offers the most comprehensive Precision Machining Technology program in Indiana, and is one of the few in the United States to offer specialized training in manual machining, CNC machining, metal stamping die and plastic injection mold building, explains Art Haase, Dean of the VU College of Technology.

The Hurco CNC machining centers and turning centers will replace the Haas equipment that has been in the Precision Machining Lab at VU for 10 years. “We didn’t make this decision lightly,” said Haase, who explains that the commitment by Hurco to continually keep the equipment updated was an important consideration. “We solicited feedback from employers who have hired our graduates to see what they thought about making the switch. The responses were positive and once Hurco pledged to continually upgrade equipment, I knew it would be an incredibly valuable partnership for our students. Innovation in manufacturing technology continues to occur rapidly. Our partnership with Hurco will ensure Vincennes students have the benefit of the latest and greatest equipment, which will make their skills even more valuable to employers” said Haase.

“Vincennes University is delighted to enter into this partnership with Hurco Companies, a worldwide leader in CNC machine tools and control technology. Working together, we will make machinists more efficient and shops more profitable in the skilled manufacturing landscape, which is especially important to the Indiana economy. Access to Hurco technology will benefit our students in multiple ways,” said VU President Dick Helton.

According to Greg Volovic, president of Hurco Companies, Inc., “The machining program at Vincennes is well-known in our industry as one of the best in the nation and we are extremely excited to be a part of it. In fact, several of our applications engineers are alumni of Vincennes so we have firsthand knowledge of the valuable skills and experience students acquire at VU,” Volovic said.

With over 1,600 hours of hands on experience, students have the opportunity to develop a solid background in machine shop practices, as well as learn the set-up and operation for all basic types of manual and CNC machine tools. Classroom discussions focus on theory, terminology, and calculations.

The type and quality of equipment used in VU labs include traditional machine tools as well as the latest in CNC equipment— identical to that found in industry. In addition, VU’s faculty has an extensive background in education, teaching, and industry, to ensure that students receive instruction in both theory and practical applications.

Precision Machining Technology graduates have the option of applying for acceptance into a 14 week summer session, Advanced CNC Machining & Programming, providing them with an additional 600 hours of hands on CNC training, as well as a second Associates degree.
Starting salaries for VU’s Precision Machining graduates average in the $40,000 to $50,000 range with some far exceeding this. Job opportunities are excellent, with virtually 100 percent placement.

Hurco has more than 45 different CNC machining center and turning center products, all powered by the company’s CNC software, WinMax®, which includes hundreds of software features that increase productivity and profitability for businesses in the skilled manufacturing industry.
“Our technology is especially beneficial for advanced manufacturing companies that make parts and molds for multiple industries, such as aerospace, defense, energy/mining, medical, automotive, and motorsports. With more than 60 software patents, Hurco is a prime example of the reality that today’s manufacturing is truly about technology. The misconception that manufacturing isn’t technologically innovative and exciting is one that we need to change in Indiana. I am confident our involvement with Indiana’s leading manufacturing education programs, such as the Vincennes program, will help educate prospective students, parents of high school students, and the public about the exciting careers available in manufacturing throughout Indiana,” explains Volovic.