Biddeford Schools - Est. 1848

The Biddeford Regional Center of Technology (BRCOT) has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the Gene Haas Foundation to support scholarships and sponsorships for students enrolled in its Manufacturing Technology program. The funding will help students pursuing careers in CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining and advanced manufacturing by covering costs related to training and competition opportunities.

BRCOT’s Manufacturing Technology I and II courses provide students with hands-on experience in both manual and CNC machining, blueprint reading, and CNC programming using industry-standard language. Students learn to fabricate precision parts using lathes, milling machines, grinders, and CNC equipment, and take part in field trips to local manufacturers working in aerospace, military, and medical sectors.

“This grant is a game-changer for our students,” said Tim Fenimore, BRCOT’s Manufacturing Technology instructor. “It gives us the ability to reward hard work and open up more opportunities for hands-on learning and real-world experience. The students in this program are incredibly dedicated—they’re learning to work to extremely tight tolerances, problem-solve on the fly, and think critically about both design and function. It takes focus, patience, and a strong work ethic to succeed in this field, and I’m thrilled that this funding will help recognize and support that effort. I couldn’t be prouder of them.”

The Gene Haas Foundation grant may also be used to support student participation in competitions such as SkillsUSA, a national organization dedicated to empowering the next generation of skilled professionals by providing opportunities for skill development, leadership training, and professional growth in over 70 different areas. Twenty-one BRCOT students participated in this annual technical standards competition, showcasing their talents as they prepare for careers in trade, technical, and skilled service occupations.

“This generous support from the Gene Haas Foundation is an incredible investment in our students and their futures,” said Paulette Bonneau, Director of the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology. “We are especially proud of the work done by our Manufacturing Technology instructor, Tim Fenimore, whose real-world experience, dedication to teaching, and commitment to the growth of this program made this opportunity possible. His leadership continues to inspire students and build bridges to high-skill, high-demand careers in the machining industry.”

Fenimore has been working in the machining industry since 2003 and holds an associate degree in Precision Machining from Central Maine Community College. He has produced parts for industries ranging from defense to semiconductor manufacturing and brings a wealth of experience from various shops across southern Maine. In addition to his teaching role, he is currently enrolled in the CTE program at Eastern Maine Community College to further advance his skills in career and technical education.

Scholarships funded through the grant will be awarded over several years by Fenimore and BRCOT Administration, and the program is open to high school juniors and seniors, with select openings for sophomores upon instructor approval. Students earn math credit while developing valuable industry skills that prepare them for immediate employment or post-secondary education in the precision manufacturing field. To learn more about BRCOT and its programs, visit https://www.biddefordschools.me/o/brct.   

The Gene Haas Foundation, established by Haas Automation founder Gene Haas, supports manufacturing education across the country. Through scholarships, sponsorships, and investments in CNC training programs, the Foundation is dedicated to helping students pursue careers in advanced manufacturing. Since its founding in 1999, it has awarded more than $225 million in grants nationwide. To learn more about the Gene Haas Foundation, visit https://www.ghaasfoundation.org/