[MADISON, Wisc., April 03, 2025] – On April 10, 2025, more than 65 National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) Leadership Schools across the country will host NC3 National Signing Day, an event dedicated to recognizing and celebrating new and prospective career and technical education (CTE) students. This event honors their commitment to technical careers and emphasizes the growing importance of skilled trades in today’s workforce.
Tormach, a U.S.-based manufacturer of capable yet affordable CNC machines – including mills, lathes, and routers – is proud to support these students as they take the next step in their educational and career journeys.
With ongoing efforts to bring more manufacturing back to the U.S., supporting technical education is essential. Tormach is committed to helping students and educators access the tools and training they need to build meaningful careers and contribute to a more resilient manufacturing future.
“At Tormach, we believe that investing in technical education is investing in the future of American manufacturing, ” said Heather Curtis, education director at Tormach. “As the demand for skilled workers continues to grow, it’s critical that we equip the next generation with the hands-on experience and problem-solving abilities they need to succeed. Events like NC3 National Signing Day celebrate the students who are stepping up to fill the skills gap and drive innovation in U.S. manufacturing. We’re proud to support these future makers and doers as they begin their journeys toward meaningful, high-impact careers.”
Recognizing the Value of Technical Careers
Similar to National Signing Day ceremonies for collegiate athletes, NC3’s Signing Day elevates students pursuing careers in skilled trades and STEM fields, reinforcing the dignity and value of their chosen profession. As an NC3 certification partner, Tormach is committed to providing hands-on industry support to students pursuing technical careers.
At participating Signing Day events, students and their families will have the opportunity to meet potential employers, learn about high-demand careers, and even receive scholarships to support
their studies. Tormach employees will be on-site at multiple locations coast-to-coast (from North Carolina to Alaska), offering career guidance in STEM-related fields.
Tormach employees will attend the following NC3 Signing Day events:
- Richard J. Daley College – Chicago, IL
- Gateway Technical College – Kenosha, WI
- TCAT Memphis – Bartlett, TN
- Wasilla High School – Wasilla, AK
- Pitt Community College – Greenville, NC
“As a former CTE educator,” said Rob Funk, education advisor at Tormach, “I’ve seen firsthand the impact that hands-on technical training can have on students’ futures. Investing in manufacturing education isn’t just about teaching skills — it’s about creating opportunities, building confidence, and preparing students for real-world careers that are in high demand.”
Supporting Students with Industry-Recognized Certifications
As part of its commitment to technical education, Tormach offers three NC3-certified courses in computer-controlled manufacturing: CNC Basics, CNC for Woodworking, and CNC Metal Milling (launching this summer). Each course equips educators with a free, ready-to-use curriculum and provides students with industry-recognized certifications that validate their skills and enhance their career prospects. By integrating these certifications into CTE programs, Tormach is helping schools bridge the skills gap and prepare students for in-demand roles in advanced manufacturing.
A Nationwide Celebration of Technical Education
NC3’s industry partners, local businesses, and community leaders will join schools across the U.S. in celebrating these students and highlighting the essential role of skilled trades in the workforce. Each event will be live-streamed, culminating in a nationwide simulcast at www.nc3.net/signingday, uniting participants in a shared celebration of technical education.
For more information on NC3’s National Signing Day 2025, visit www.nc3.net/signingday.
