#United States #Kannapolis #Okuma Machine Tool Academy #Rowan-Cabarrus Community College #CNC Training

Okuma America Corporation Recognized for Training Excellence

In a notable achievement for the manufacturing sector, Okuma America Corporation, renowned for its production of computer numeric control (CNC) machinery, has garnered several prestigious awards for its training program coordinated with Rowan-Cabarrus Community College (RCCC). This recognition highlights the impressive collaboration aimed at enhancing workforce skills in North Carolina’s manufacturing industry.

The accolades were presented during the recent awards ceremony by the American Association of Community Colleges and the North Carolina Community College System. Notably, the 2026 Outstanding College/Corporate Partnership Award was granted to Okuma, celebrating their exceptional collaboration with RCCC. Additionally, the 2026 Innovative Leadership Award was also bestowed upon them, recognizing Okuma's innovative initiatives in partnership with the community college.

The journey of this fruitful partnership began in 2021, when Okuma established the Okuma Machine Tool Academy (OMTA) at RCCC’s Advanced Technology Center, located at the North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis. This academy serves as a bridge between traditional education and the demands of modern manufacturing, offering comprehensive technical training through a variety of programs.

OMTA focuses on essential topics such as electrical and mechanical maintenance, CNC machine tool programming, and operations. The facility features several advanced Okuma CNC machines, including the GENOS M460V-5AX, a five-axis vertical machining center, and various other high-performance lathes and machining centers. Students not only learn theory but gain practical hands-on experience that is critical in today’s job market.

Natalie Rogers, the Training Program Manager at Okuma, expressed pride in the awards, stating, “We were honored to receive these prestigious awards... working with the Rowan Cabarrus Community College Team to offer continuing education programs is a privilege. This partnership has significantly advanced our training capabilities, empowering participants to refine their skills and maximize their impact in the industry.”

Since its inception, the OMTA has seen over 800 students enroll in its courses, including individuals from notable organizations like SpaceX and Harley Davidson. This influx of learners reflects the importance of North Carolina as a pivotal hub for industrial innovation on a global scale.

Looking ahead, both Okuma and RCCC are committed to expanding the curriculum and outreach to further support the evolving needs of the manufacturing workforce. With a combination of academic excellence and practical training, they are poised to significantly contribute to the sector’s growth and sustainability.

For more information regarding OMTA and its upcoming courses, interested individuals can visit the academy’s webpage or complete an interest registration form.

About Rowan-Cabarrus Community College

Founded in 1963, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College has been dedicated to serving the residents of Rowan and Cabarrus counties. It is a comprehensive institution that offers accredited associate degree programs in various fields, applied learning, and job training programs. Annually, the college serves over 20,000 students, providing them access to more than 2,000 course offerings, including critical training in engineering technologies and biotechnology.

About Okuma America Corporation

Okuma America Corporation functions as the U.S. sales, marketing, and service wing of Okuma Corporation, a powerhouse in CNC machine tool manufacturing since 1898. As the only company that provides a complete range of machine tools, drives, motors, and controls, Okuma is committed to helping their users stay competitive in an increasingly automated world. To learn more, visit their website at Okuma.com or connect on social media platforms.