2/1/2003
Profit Center
AERA EXPO: Your Source For Shop Tips, Tools and Technicians
By Jim Rickoff
One of the most common questions I get when talking to machine shop owners and engine builders is, "Where can I find a trained machinist for my shop?" Well, I think I have an answer. Attend AERA’s International EXPO 2003, April 24-26, 2003 at the Las Vegas Convention Center and interview a trained automotive machinist in person right on the show floor.
Paul Nelson, an Automotive Machining Technology instructor at Northwest Technical College in Bemidji, MN, has been an AERA board of director for a couple of years. Paul is very enthusiastic about our industry and his teaching profession. In fact, if you’ve ever had the opportunity to meet Paul, you wouldn’t forget him. He has a passion for this industry that comes across loud and clear. He loves this industry and it shows in the students he produces from this small northern Minnesota community of Bemidji
I’ve known Paul for years and he has always had good ideas. First, Paul wanted to compile a list of accredited schools offering Automotive Machinists Training Programs. He has done this and if you would like a copy of this list, please contact AERA and we would be happy to send it to you.
Now, Paul has another good idea. In recognizing a shop’s difficulty in hiring trained automotive machinists, he has invited all of the accredited schools to attend AERA’s International EXPO 2003 and to bring along students for on the spot interviews. We have given them a couple of booths to house themselves in and are looking forward to a successful showing.
While I am not sure how many students will be able to attend, I am sure that it is in your best interest to stop by this booth and familiarize yourself with these automotive machinists programs and their students. And besides, you owe it to yourself to meet Paul. He truly is a gem in our industry. To contact Paul, email him at paul.nelson@mail.ntc.mnscu.edu.
Jim Rickoff is a consultant to the Engine Rebuilders Association (AERA). For information on monthly technical mailings and other member services and benefits, call 888-326-2372 or email info@aera.org. jrickoff@engine-builder.com