GOLDSBORO, N.C. — Wayne Community College has been designated as an authorized Haas certification center following the successful completion of operator certification training by Computer-Integrated Machining instructors Bailee Gilbert and David Meek.
The designation enables WCC to administer certification exams for the Haas CNC Certification Program, which allows manufacturing professionals to earn credentials recognizing their expertise in operating CNC machinery produced by Haas Automation, the largest machine tool builder in the United States and one of the world’s leading CNC machine manufacturers.
The Haas certification program combines online instructional videos and quizzes covering mill and lathe operation and safety protocols with a hands-on final examination. Previously, candidates could only complete the practical exam at Haas Factory Outlet locations or designated certification centers.
With their newly acquired authorization, Gilbert and Meek can now administer the hands-on portion of the certification test to anyone who has successfully completed the online training requirements, including WCC students, faculty members, and members of the public.
“The certification is administered primarily via the HFO network,” Gilbert explained. “Johnston Community College is on the list of certification centers, so they generously invited us to go and take the final exam at their facility.”
Gilbert praised the collaborative support WCC received during the certification process. “Instructors Dwight Barnes and Dexter Edwards took the time out of their schedule to not only administer the hands-on portion of the test to us but also supply instructional content and testing materials to help us deliver the certification to future applicants,” she said.
The certification center designation strengthens WCC’s longstanding partnership with Haas Automation. The Gene Haas Foundation regularly provides scholarships and financial support to the Computer-Integrated Machining program, helping advance manufacturing education in the region.
Individuals interested in pursuing Haas certification training can contact Bailee Gilbert at bagilbert@waynecc.edu or 919-739-6965, or David Meek at demeek@waynecc.edu or 919-739-6812.
