Metalworking credentialing on the increase

NIMS reports 58.8% jump in 2013

By Bob Vavra, Content Manager Plant Engineering February 13, 2014

The need for skilled workers in the metalworking industry has been well-documented, and that message appears to be attracting some workers.

The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) is reporting a 58.8% increase in the number of new or advanced accreditations for workers in the industry. NIMS reported on Jan. 16 that it issued almost 14,000 credentials in 2013. 

“These numbers show that manufacturing employers are increasingly in need of skilled talent, and individuals are seeking to validate their skills and differentiate themselves in the hiring pool through industry-recognized and standards-based credentials," said NIMS executive direct Jim Wall in a press release. “As manufacturing becomes more complex, technology-driven and innovative, companies, workers, and students need to keep up with evolving industry standards and job requirements.”

That skills training is important as manufacturers look to differentiate themselves in the market, according to NIMS member Greg Chambers.

“As a contract manufacturer of customized parts, we market the skills and abilities of our employees to potential customers,” said Chambers, director of corporate compliance, Oberg Industries, Inc. in Freeport, Pa. “We prefer that our current workforce and the individuals we hire have NIMS credentials, because it tells us, and our customers, that they can perform to industry standards and have an edge in the highly competitive marketplace.”

“Building and accessing a high-caliber workforce is a top priority for Haas Automation, which is why we work to provide students with a relevant, high-tech and hands-on educational experience, so that they can become work-ready CNC machinists, programmers, and engineers for today’s industrial employers," added Bob Skodzinsky, the program director for Haas Automation’s Technical Education Center Network. "Using NIMS’ standards and credentials in our programs guarantees that the students are receiving relevant and quality training, and ensures that they will be competitive the second they apply for a job in the industry.”

NIMS certification training ranges from entry-level metalforming skills training to advanced certification in machining and metalforming. The association also works with the Department of Labor on the Competency-Based Apprenticeship System that helps direct individuals with the skills training they need in the metalworking industry.

For more information about NIMS standards and credentials, visit https://www.nims-skills.org/web/nims/home.