OMAX Educates Future Manufacturers

For the sixth year this builder of abrasive waterjets is partnering with Aviation High School’s First® Robotics team, Skunkworks Robotics to mentor talented students interested in obtaining engineering and manufacturing skills.

OMAX® Corporation (Kent, WA), a global leader in the design and manufacture of advanced abrasive waterjet technology, recently announced its continued support of Aviation High School’s First® Robotics team, Skunkworks Robotics. The partnership marks the company’s sixth year of mentoring talented students interested in obtaining engineering and manufacturing skills.

One of OMAX’s educational outreach initiatives has been to provide youth with access to the manufacturing industry. During a six-week build season, the company’s engineers work closely with students and teachers from Aviation High School in the production of advanced robot components. The team designs, fabricates and tests all its robotic components using OMAX advanced abrasive waterjet technology.

“Manufacturing is a viable and growing industry that makes for a lucrative career path, yet shops everywhere find it increasingly difficult to acquire skilled workers,” said Dr. John Cheung, the chief executive officer of OMAX. “One reason for this gap is people’s misconception that manufacturing facilities are dark, dirty and low-tech places. But, nothing could be further from the truth. Today’s manufacturing environments are clean, safe and extremely high-tech. We take pride in working with and encouraging students of all ages to become the next generation of manufacturing and technology leaders.”

In addition to the company’s work with Aviation High School, OMAX also works alongside several colleges including Kettering University, Renton Technical College, Washington State University and the University of Washington, to develop internship programs where engineering and technical students can gain highly beneficial on-the-job training prior to graduation. http://ahsrobotics.us/Home/index.html

Accomplished inventor Dean Kamen founded FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) in 1989 to inspire an appreciation of science and technology in young people. Based in Manchester, NH, FIRST designs accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology, and engineering.