Four individuals stand in front of a large industrial machine, holding an oversized check. The check is from the Gene Haas Foundation, dated May 19, 2023, and made out to Berks Career & Tech Center for $16,000.00 as a scholarship grant.

Berks Career and Technology Center’s Precision and Computerized Machining Technology program has been awarded a $16,000.00 Gene Haas Foundation/Tooling Award to enhance student learning and career preparation. The funding will be used to purchase materials and tools for students to use during their hands-on training at BCTC—and to take with them after graduation as they begin their careers in the machining industry. 

The Gene Haas Foundation is dedicated to building skills in the machining industry by supporting education and training in CNC (Computer Numerical Control) technology. The Tooling Award is one of the many ways the foundation fulfills its mission of supporting the next generation of skilled manufacturing professionals. 

Haas Automation, the company behind the Gene Haas Foundation, is the largest machine tool builder in the United States and one of the largest builders of CNC machines in the world. Haas manufactures a complete line of CNC vertical machining centers, horizontal machining centers, turning centers, 5-axis machining centers, and rotary products. 

This generous grant will directly benefit BCTC students by equipping them with essential tools to gain real-world experience, meet industry standards, and enter the workforce with confidence and capability. 

BCTC is proud to partner with the Gene Haas Foundation to continue providing high-quality, industry-aligned training that prepares students for success in today’s advanced manufacturing careers.