Meridian Community College’s Precision Machining Engineering Technology Program received a donation from Gorilla Mill, a Wisconsin-based, nationally-known company that produces high-performance drills, end mills, and cutting tools.

Gorilla Mill, through its “Tools for Schools” program, donated a selection of CNC cutting tools that will directly benefit students in the MCC program.

The “Tools for Schools” initiative, designed to support educational institutions, recognizes the budget challenges that many schools face. Gorilla Mill’s contribution helps students gain hands-on experience without the added stress of tooling costs.

“We love to give back to the schools,” said Sean Heitz, national and international sales director of Gorilla Mill. Heitz said that manufacturing in the U.S. is an underrated industry that offers challenges and rewards.

The donation is especially timely as MCC’s Precision Machining Program has a large sophomore class this year, focused on CNC programming, operation and setup, said Brian Warren, Precision Machining Program coordinator and instructor.

With rising costs due to inflation, keeping on top of tooling expenses has been a challenge, Warren noted. The Gorilla Mill donation will allow the program to focus more on investing in materials for students, enhancing their learning experience.

“We are always grateful for industry support,” Warren added. “This donation of cutting tools from Gorilla Mill will ease the burden of managing tooling costs.”

Warren noted the program prides itself on producing graduates who are ready for the workforce.

“I want to thank Shean Heitz and everyone at Gorilla Mill for supporting the next generation of CNC machinists here at MCC,” he said.