Defending Champions Gear Up for Project MFG

Tad Montgomery, a machine tool technology instructor at Calhoun Community College in Decatur, Alabama, emphasizes the importance of mastering the fundamentals in machining. He believes that a solid understanding of core principles makes it easier for students to develop advanced skills.

“What sets us apart as a program is that we don’t jump straight into multiaxis machining. My philosophy is that by truly understanding the core principles, it is easier for students to develop advanced skills,” Montgomery explains.

Students at Calhoun are required to master manual machining and G-code programming before moving on to cad-cam programming. At the core of their training, however, remains computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software.

This focus on fundamentals helped the Calhoun Community College team win the national tournament hosted by Project MFG, which is featured in the award-winning reality show “Clash of the Trades” on YouTube. 

Winning with Precision

The team won a $100,000 prize using Mastercam software to create an intake manifold for a real race car. Programs like Calhoun’s equip students with hands-on experience and industry-relevant skills, preparing the next generation of manufacturers.

The school bought some measuring instruments with their half of the winnings and put the rest away for a rainy day. Montgomery says members of last year’s championship team are being frugal, with one showing interest in investing in the stock market and the other putting his share in savings. The former students are out in the workforce putting their skills to good use in the machining world.

A New Challenge Awaits

The current team, though younger and less experienced, is hardworking and eager to prove themselves. Montgomery hopes they will reach the final four in the upcoming competition. Calhoun’s collaboration with Mastercam has been instrumental in its success.

 As one of the most widely used CAM software solutions in the industry, Mastercam provides students with access to cutting-edge technology such as Unified Morph and Guide, preparing them for real-world application.

Growing for the Future

The partnership not only strengthens the school’s curriculum but also helps bridge the gap between education and industry by ensuring that students graduate with the skills that employers demand. Mastercam’s software packages provide the precision and agility needed in business today. Montgomery, a Calhoun graduate himself, knows the impact manufacturing has on the regional economy, particularly when it comes to the aerospace industry.

Project MFG’s mission to promote the prestige of manufacturing careers and expand workforce training is more critical than ever with a global tech talent gap. Mastercam has been a proud sponsor of Project MFG since its inception – providing software, post processors, and on-site support for competitors.  

Calhoun Community College continues to grow its program, moving into a bigger facility and adding more than a dozen new CNC machines. Its students remain at the forefront of the manufacturing revolution.

Changing Perceptions

As the program prepares to defend its title in the upcoming Project MFG competition, Montgomery emphasizes the importance of changing outdated perceptions of manufacturing. Modern facilities, particularly those involved in medical manufacturing, are clean, temperature-controlled, and technologically advanced. His goal is to ensure that students not only understand the technical skills required for CNC machining but also appreciate the industry’s high standards and potential career rewards.

Montgomery’s advice for aspiring machinists is simple yet powerful: work hard, embrace technology, and never stop learning. With Mastercam, schools like Calhoun Community College are not just preparing for the next competition—they’re shaping the future of American manufacturing.

In May, Project MFG teams will compete live at the National Championship site over four days and will be featured in the reality show, “Clash of the Trades.” Stay tuned for an unforgettable showdown!