Manufacturing: Sparks to Parts Featured Businesses: Imperial Industries, Inc. Dealerships, Parts, Service & more! itime ¬fall 2011 time Staff Amanda Mosher Senior, GCT Spring 2012 Mackenzie Fraser Senior, GCT Emily Drewek Senior, GCT Jessica Bean Senior, GCT Xang Lor Senior, GCT Kaitlin Racine Senior, GCT Katie Hohensee Senior, GCT Elise Cox Junior, GCT Brad Anderson Senior, GCT Philip Graveen Senior, GCT Kelly Traska Senior, GCT Trevor Beaty Senior, GCT Jessica Scott Senior, GCT Beth Russ Instructor, GCT Dan Seanor Instructor, GCT Bud Young Instructor, GCT Darren Ackley Dean NTC time magazine’s top priority is to inform and educate Central Wisconsin about the graphic technologies, manufacturing and engineering trades as well as education for them in the area of Wausau, Wisconsin. We primarily intend to inform the readership and showcase the depth of the trades, introducing the consumer to aspects of the trades and education, as well as displaying in-depth information and informing readers of present opportunities in the area. NTC time magazine showcases Central Wisconsin’s technologies and manufacturing and engineering trades, from education to business. NTC time promotes the industry by informing readers of these trades and displaying the immense capabilities of its members. Students and staff from Northcentral Technical College collaborate to construct NTC time publication bi-annually. Designed and produced by NTC Graphic Communication Technologies students for educational purposes. ii NTC time ¬ spring 2012 Contents Spring 2012 Headliners: Will Green Make Cents?. . . . . . . . . 13 Wheels to Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Spot-Light: Addressing Workforce Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Automobiles Through the Ages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Area Auto Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Welding History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Recreation & Leisure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Commerce: Featured Businesses: Auto Industry: New, Used & Repair . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Goetsch’s Welding & Machine Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . 26 Imperial Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Instruction: Featured Programs: Automotive Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Lean Six Sigma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Merrill Tech Ed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Welding Progam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 time ¬ spring 2012 ii time Commerce by MacKenzie Fraser Auto Industry: New, Used, and Repairs Brickner’s of Wausau At Brickner’s of Wausau, it’s not just about buying a car. It’s about finding the right car for YOU. That means, we take the time to get to know you—your aesthetic preferences, your hobbies, and your driving habits. This is true regardless of whether you decide to lease or buy a new Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or RAM. For, whether you’re “together” two years or 20, Brickner’s of Wausau wants to make sure you never regret your decision. Jerry Brickner from Brickner’s of Wausau says something new is that they are selling cars again. “Chrysler Corp sales were up 26% last year, and have month over month increases in sales for the last 24 months. Our product is what people want and they are buying it.” Jerry sees automotive technology constantly advancing. “We have seen so many changes in the last five years. I am really excited about what vehicles will be like in the next five to ten years.” Jerry gets into more depth. “Technology is traveling at a high rate of speed. Touch screen controls, audio system technology, GPS, electric power steering, smart air ride suspension, fuel efficient gas engines with great MPG and performance. “ you need to be able to communicate well and have a stellar driving record. “I have actually not been able to hire very good prospects because of their driving record,” Jerry says. Jerry, along with Kent Olson, are co-chairs for the Wisconsin Auto and Truck Education Association, WATEA. They attend career fairs, visit schools, and talk to classes to inform them of the opportunities in the automotive industry. WATEA owns the “Crew Chief” which is a NASCAR tire change simulator and attracts kids to its booth very easily as it is a hands-on machine. Brickner’s of Wausau works very closely with the area high schools and technical colleges to help fund, direct, advise on curriculum, and staff the automotive programs. Brickner’s of Wausau is a leading provider of new and used Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and RAM cars in Wausau WI thanks to their quality automobiles, low prices, and superior sales staff. They encourage you to visit them at 2525 Grand Avenue to view their selection in person, speak to a sales professional or take a Town & Country, 1500, Journey, Wrangler or 200 for a test drive. Call if you have any questions about a new or used Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or If you’re looking to keep up with the automotive industry, Jerry’s RAM vehicle that they can answer for you. advice is to stay educated. His reasoning is the automotive field is changing rapidly. It has been for years and will be in the future. “Technicians cannot be complacent where they are at. They need F U N to be continually learning what is new, what has changed, and A The first cars did not have what will be changing. There is a lot of information available for C steering wheels. Drivers steered with technicians, they just need to take the initiative.” Jerry adds that T a lever. S 1 time ¬ spring 2012 Car Connection Central, LLC Car Connection Central LLC opened for business in 1979 in Schofield, WI. As the business grew, additional staff and service bays were added. In 1999 The Car Connection acquired the one acre lot next door and doubled their size. Today, the Car Connection is the area’s largest used car dealership. As the only used car dealership with 4 mechanics and 4 service bays exclusively for their vehicles and customers, the Car Connection doesn’t just sell cars and trucks—they service them as well. The Car Connection takes pride in the fact that 90% of their sales come from word of mouth, and they frequently sell multiple vehicles to families and neighbors. Thirty years in the same location means Car Connection will be here for your current car and the next. All vehicles are warranted, and inspected prior to sale. The state does not require such inspections, but they do. Car Connection’s ‘One-Price’ selling means no hassle or haggling to get the best price— it’s on the sticker. Their vehicles are carefully chosen to guarantee the best value for your money. their ‘One Price’ is well below most other dealers ‘Starting Price’. Car Connection deals fairly, honestly, and explains everything about your vehicle to you before you buy. Many of their vehicles are warranted, and are serviced on site in their shop. In addition, they will explain exactly what your car is worth and what they can give you for it. They will never hide the real value using tricks and inflated prices. If you choose to trade your Car Connection knows you hate to haggle car, you may. If not, Car Connection Central over a car. All you want is a fair price and a can give you all the information you need to quality car. That’s the way they feel, too. So sell it yourself. they price all their cars with the best possible price they can sell them at and still make a reasonable profit. You will usually find that Griesbach Auto Sales Griesbach Auto Service Inc. opened its doors in October 1996. The company’s goal in 1996 is our goal today—complete client satisfaction. Griesbach strives to have the best qualified and trained technicians on staff to solve client issues in a timely fashion. We also use the highest quality parts available so their clients will not have to experience the same failure during ownership of their vehicle. We all know mechanical components are prone to fail, that is why they offer a 36 months 36,000 mile warranty on most services. Griesbach Auto Service is truly a family owned and operated service facility. If you have a concern or question, Jon Griesbach, owner, is always available to discuss your vehicles issues with you. Tina, his wife, is the Office Manager and takes care of all bookkeeping needs. Their two sons help around the shop cleaning, maintaining equipment, and doing yard work. The Griesbach’s are very proud of their clean state-of-the-art facility and would love to give you a tour and introduce you to the team they have in place to service all your vehicles maintenance and repair needs. They invite you to stop in for a free cup of coffee, hot chocolate, cappuccino, and popcorn. Owner Jon Griesbach is also on the advisory board for the automotive program at NTC. When asked what is new right now in the automotive industry, he said that there are always continued advancements in automotive technology. “Hybrid vehicles, alternative fuel vehicles, and electric powered vehicles are the big focus right now,” Jon says. That comes as no surprise given the consistent increase in standard fuel prices. Griesbach Auto Body currently has one enrolled and one graduated student employed from the NTC automotive program. Continued on Page 31 time ¬ spring 2012 2 L methods are implemented by having different groups of employees receive training in Lean and Six Sigma methods. This is followed by these employess conducting separate projects based on business need. A focus on Lean occurs when short-term gains are desired and business leaders believe that a value stream map will reveal appropriate solutions. Six Sigma is preferred when the problem is not obvious, and/or when a longer time frame is required. According to the Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership (WMEP), businesses that used Lean Six Sigma experienced increased yields, reduced costs, better quality and variation and make process improvements less waste. Source eHow website, eHow Contributor, Sandra Mireles based on the customer definition of quality, and by measuring process performance and Lean Sigma Certificate process change effects. This is done by Value Northcentral Technical College is offering Stream Mapping which involves clarifying the customer base, listing the process steps, a Lean Sigma Certificate. Beginning in establishing which steps are value-add, and the fall semester of 2012, this 14-credit reworking the process so the value-add certificate will be available at the Wausau steps flow without interruption. There is no and Phillips campuses. Classes will be area of a business that will not benefit from held Wednesday evenings from 5pm – analysis with Value Stream Mapping. Each 9pm. This certificate has been designed business must find the right combination specifically for organizations that want local of Lean and Six Sigma tools to gain the ongoing training to help them implement most benefit for their business. Mapping Lean Six Sigma into their company. Time the business will reveal the trouble spots commitment for this accelerated, hybrid and then the real business of attacking the certificate is four hours every other week plus significant project time between problem can begin. classes for two semesters. Six Sigma Methods consist of a main Six Organizations are encouraged to enroll Sigma technique which is the 5-step DMAIC process: Define the problem, Measure the teams of employees, however, individuals current situation, Analyze for root cause, are also welcome. Teams will use the tools ean Six Sigma is a quality improvement methodology resulting from the combination of the individual Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. Lean Sigma is widely acclaimed to be the most dramatic tool for reducing lead time and variation. According to TBM Consulting Group, Lean Sigma reduces lead time and variation faster than ever before possible, and is the first seamless integration of Lean and Six Sigma. TBM claims that using the marriage of Lean Thinking and Six Sigma, project work time is reduced from six months to six or eight weeks. This is done by using Lean tools to reduce the unnecessary time and activities utilized in traditional Six Sigma. Lean Six Sigma helps companies discover and eliminate hidden costs that are a part of every business. This business tool also helps companies address resistance to change that is part of every employee environment. Improve the process effectively, and Control Lean Six Sigma aims to eliminate process the process to maintain the gain. These 3 time ¬ spring 2012 Continued on Page 31 ing That Driving The Train g! Keeps You Runnin WE NEED YOUR HELP! The Wisconsin Automotive Truck Education Association (WATEA) is looking for members like YOU to join our group. What Is WATEA WATEA is a group of like minded individuals and businesses in the automotive, truck, and transportation industry with the common goal to develop awareness of career paths and opportunities available in the automotive, truck, and transportation industry. Why Join WATEA? To help us improve and enhance the image of the automotive, truck, and transportation industry. It’s important that we recruit and retrain qualified candidates TODAY to insure we have candidates TOMORROW! Please Join Us! Our Annual Membership Drive Dinner will be held Wednesday, April 11 at the Jefferson Street Inn. Social time begins at 5:30pm, Dinner served at 6:00pm, and Presentation(s) from 6:30 - 7:00pm. Plus you’ll get to see what we do, meet other members within your industry, and see the BENEFITS of joining WATEA. Please RSVP Contact: Becky Kopp Phone: (715) 261-8719 Email: [email protected] Visit Us At: www.WATEA.org WATEA is a 501C Non-Profit Organization Proud sponsor of time Commerce by Beth Russ Imperial Industries Imperial Industries, located in Rothschild, WI, has been building codes are incorporated in this tank design software and manufacturing bulk storage tanks and silos, and liquid waste ensure that each project exceeds customer expectations. tanks for over 30 years. Committed to providing customers with an unequaled combination of quality, value and service, Imperial Industries designs welded storage tanks, bins, hoppers, septic, grease and portable toilet service trucks. In addition, they specialize in factory and field welded storage tanks for dry bulk material and a wide variety of liquids. Founded in 1981, Imperial was among the first to adopt modern manufacturing processes in the design and fabrication of bulk storage tanks. Their state-of-the-art 91,368 sq. ft. manufacturing facility is based on an assembly line model rather than the typical job-shop approach, and is the most advanced plant of its kind in the industry. Constructing tanks from carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum Imperial Industries currently employs over 160 employees or any of several specialty alloys, Imperial incorporates the latest and has over 75 full time Welders/Fabricators. technology and equipment providing superior design flexibility, product quality, and manufacturing efficiency. The company is Storage Tanks are often the most visually prominent features authorized to produce fabricated pressure vessels and holds both “U” and “R” stamps for manufacture and repair of pressure vessels. of a manufacturing plant. Tank finishes not only improve a tank’s performance, but also reduce cleaning and maintenance costs. Imperial Industries specializes exclusively in tank design. Their Imperial’s 15,000 square foot cleaning, painting, and finishing engineers use proprietary tank design software to create detailed facility provides the best finish in the industry. Factory-trained drawings, materials lists, production schedules, and cost estimates painters apply epoxy and polyurethane coatings, or custom paint as based on a customer’s unique needs. Data and information from defined by the customer’s project requirements. Stainless steel and hundreds of previous installations, factors such as wind load, soil aluminum tanks are chemically cleaned and protected for transit. and seismic conditions, and current local, national, and international time ¬ spring 2012 6 Imperial Industries makes delivery of tanks easier with its dedicated fleet of trucks and knowledgeable drivers. Self-unloading trailers are designed specifically for the transportation of tanks and all drivers are expert at protecting the load en route. Tanks, carefully prepared for transport, are delivered complete and ready to set in place and put into immediate operation. For over 20 years Imperial Industries has also been providing septic tankers, portable sanitation service trucks, and slide-in units engineered for handling residential and portable restroom wastes. Each truck-mounted tank is designed to the customer’s specifications. With a broad network of truck dealership connections, Imperial can also assist customers in their search for a truck chassis. As they continue to grow, Imperial Industries recently introduced plastic products to complement service tank units that service the “Imperial Handwash,” and the “Imperial Barricade” to their line of portable restroom market. They have added the “Imperial Toilet,” the products, complementing the slide-in units and truck mounted service tanks that are already leaders in the industry. Contact Imperial Industries, Inc. at 800-558-2945 for more information. FUN A hat are the origins of the word C Argon ? The name originates T from the Greek word ‘argos’ S meaning inactive. W You Can Now View NTC time Magazine Online Just go to http://www.ntc.edu/programs/tech-trades/102042 ING 2011 SPR 7time ¬fall 2011 Once there click on the More Info bar and select the issue you would like to view. 8time ¬fall 2011 History The Automobile Through the Ages by Kati Hohensee M ost people know that the Model T Ford was the first mass produced automobile in the early 1900s. But did you know that the first car was actually built in 1769? Automobiles did not just come out of thin air, or Henry Ford’s mind, around 1903. It actually started over a hundred years earlier in France. In 1796 a French military engineer named Nicolas Cugnot developed a steam powered road vehicle for the French army to haul heavy cannons. He successfully converted the back and forth action of a steam piston into rotary motion by using a steam engine fixed to a three-wheeled cart. This new truck could reach walking speed and carry four tons. known as the Puffing Devil, was the first horseless carriage to transport passengers. In the following decades this vehicle was improved by the development of hand brakes, gears, and steering wheels. patented a successful four-stroke engine known as “Otto Cycle.” Not long after a Scottish engineer, Sir Dugald Clerk, invented the first successful two-stroke engine. The ‘Motor Age’ was starting to move forward with some steam. Instead of decades passing between major improvements, it was now only taking a few years for engineers and inventers to find new and better ways to spruce up the automobile. in 1886 there were two engineers in Germany—Gottlieb Daimler and Karl Benz—who created the first vehicles driven using internal combustion engines. They formulated highly successful and practically powered vehicles that worked, for the most part, like cars we use now. The age of modern motors had just begun. Between the 1820s and 1860s, engineers experimented with new power sources. Samuel Brown, an English engineer, adapted an old steam engine to burn a mixture of oxygen hydrogen gas to power a vehicle up large hills. In 1858, a Belgian-born engineer named Jean Joseph Étienne Lenoir invented a two-stroke, internal combustion engine that was fuelled by coal gas and triggered by an electric spark-ignition. He later attached an improved engine to a three-wheeled wagon and completed a fifty-mile road trip. Not long after that, Richard Trevithick Quite a trip back in that day! of Britain improved the design of steam Now everyone was trying to get a piece engines by making them smaller and lighter of the auto action. People were constantly Just three years later, two former French with stronger boilers generating more trying to come up with ways to improve wood machinists by the names of Rene power. In 1801 he put one of his new steam the large, slow moving vehicles. Nikolaus Panhard and Emile Levassor, set up the engines on wheels. His car, referred to back August Otto would be the one to break the world’s first car manufacturers. Their first car then as a ‘road locomotive’ and commonly ice of genius. In 1876 he invented and later Continued on Page 30 Speed Demons Once vehicles could reach higher speeds, the need for speed limits arose. In 1865, the UK introduced the Locomotive Act. Horse-less vehicles were restricted to 4 mph in open country and 2 mph in towns. In addition, you were required to have three drivers per vehicle: two to travel in the vehicle and one to walk ahead waving a red flag. For 30 years cars couldn’t legally travel above walking speed. Could you imagine trying to get to work on time? 9 time ¬ spring 2012 time Safety Corner by Xang Lor Safety is the number one consideration at work. Welding and liquids or gases, and clean them thoroughly. Have a tank filled with auto mechanic are jobs that are full of hazards that can cause water within the work area. serious or fatal injuries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Here are some tips to preventing a fire in welding. fatal injuries in fires and explosion have increased by 65%. As we • Remove or cover combustible material within 35 ft of the all know auto and welding are two jobs that can cause fires or work area. explosion. Today we are going to discuss fire safety in welding and • Block or cover all windows, cracks, holes, and doorways auto repair and how to prevent it. with noncombustible material. Welding Safety • Keep a fire extinguisher in the work area and know its location. Before anyone starts welding, welders must be knowledgeable • Don’t work in areas where flammable liquids, gases, vapors about fire hazards and safe practices. Remember that a quick look and dust are present. around your work area is not enough and you should take more time • Never apply heat to a container that has combustible to learn about your work area. Welders must examine the work area materials. carefully and adjacent areas, welding equipment, and consumables • Have a tank filled with water within the work area. for hazard. Make sure you know your equipment and what shouldn’t • Provide ventilation in the work area. be around in the work area. • Use appropriate equipment. Fire can be caused by sparks, hot slag, and flame torch, and • Uncoil hoses and keep gas cylinders at a safe distance can also result from combustible materials touching a hot metal or from the work area. Never place gas hose in an area where flammable vapors. Hot slag and spark can pass through cracks, pipe sparks, heat, slag and flame can strike. openings, or holes unnoticed until a fire starts. It is always a great idea to empty tanks or pipes that may have contained flammable Auto Repair Safety Auto repair is a job where safety should never be overlooked especially with all the chemicals, gasses, and oils. A simple flare can turn into a dangerous fire quickly. Before someone gets to work, he/ she should be knowledgeable about fire safety and prevention in their work area. An auto repair person should know what to do and Continued on Page 29 time ¬ spring 2012 10 time History by Jessica Scott W elded gold boxes from the Bronze Age are the first known examples of welding. Egyptians also grasped the art of welding, which they used to create iron tools. During the middle ages, a set of blacksmiths came forward and welded various types of iron tools incorporating the use of hammers. In the 1800s, welding made major breakthroughs. One huge advancement was the use of open flames, which allowed elaborate metal tools and equipment to be manufactured. A battery-operated tool was invented which could produce an arc between carbon electrodes. Acetylene was discovered in 1836 and was soon utilized by the welding industry. In 1890 a very popular welding technique called carbon arc welding was developed. In 1953 CO2 welding became the welding process of choice for welding steels due to it being economical. Not long after, electrode wires of smaller diameter were launched, which made welding of thin materials more convenient. Throughout the 1960s there were many advancements in welding. Some of the large advancements include: Dualshield welding, Innershield welding, and Electroslag welding. Also, plasma arc welding was used for metal spraying. At this time the French Coated metal electrode welding was first introduced in 1900. A developed electron beam welding, which is still used today in the coating of lime helped the arc to be more stable. During this period United States aircraft manufacturing industries. a number of other welding processes were developed including; Some recent developments in welding include friction welding seam welding, flash butt welding, and projection welding. In 1920 and laser welding. Laser welding is used for several different kinds automatic welding was first introduced. This technique combines of welding work, which is due to the capacity of lasers in rendering the use of arc voltage and bare electrode wires, used to repair and precision to all kinds of welding jobs. mold metals. Stud welding was first used in the 1930s and was increasingly used for the construction industry and also for shipbuilding. It was also during this time that a welding process called smothered arc welding was first used. In shipbuilding, the process of stud welding was replaced by the more advanced submerged arc welding. In 1941, a new type of seamless welding was created for aluminum and magnesium. This process was called Heliarc welding. The gas shielded metal arc welding was another enormous milestone in the history of welding which was developed in 1948. 11time ¬fall¬2011 11time spring 2012 IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I The Proud Tradition Continues... IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL INDUSTRIES, INC IMPERIAL I Partnering with ntC for over 30 years From Left to Right: Joe, Mechanical Designer (Mechanical Design, 2003); Mary, Accounting Manager (Accounting, 2008 and Business Administration, 1977); Ron, Welding Leadman (Welding, 1976); Jessica, Welder/Fabricator (Welding, 2009); Ryan, Commercial Truck Assembler (Electro-Mechanical, 2008) Imperial Industries, Inc. • 715-359-0200 • P.O. Box 1685 • Wausau, WI • 54402-1685 • www.imperialind.com • EOE time W will green make cents? Spotlight by Kaitlin Racine hat is keeping the electric car from being widely adapted as a means of transportation? Factors include the cost of developing, producing, and operating electric vehicles compared to those of internal combustion engine vehicles, and the fact that electric cars have a higher price tag than their gasoline-powered companion. Another factor is what experts are calling “range anxiety”. Manufacturers are marketing these vehicles as ideal for short trips of around 40 miles. Trips longer than that would require a battery switching technology or a rapid recharge system which are both still in the works. N issan is the first automaker to put over 20,000 pure battery-electric cars on U.S. highways. The 2012 Leaf with DC Fast Charge and backup camera included starts at $35,200 or $369 per month. The Nissan Leaf is battery-electric with a 100-mile range per charge. This 5-door, 5-seat, hatchback has the right size and range for many who drive under 100 miles daily, or for households with more than one car. D espite such skepticism, Washington is putting considerable money into the effort, including billions of dollars in loans to Ford, Nissan and Tesla 13time ¬ spring 2012 Motors. Under last year’s stimulus package, nearly $200 million will support Nissan’s introduction of the Leaf by permitting the installation of 13,000 charging stations around cities in Oregon, Washington, California, Arizona and Tennessee in the next year or so. No one wants to be left out and bigger cities are preparing for an onslaught of demand. A driver with an all-electric vehicle will need a 240-volt charger for rapid charging, but many homes built before the mid-80’s don’t have the panel capacity or wiring to accommodate that type of outlet. Suddenly it’s not just a $2,500 charger you need, but a $15,000 electrical upgrade to your house. These are the things that manufacturers are thinking through and trying to be smart about. C arlos Ghosn, Nissan’s president and chief executive thinks that the zero emission Nissan Leaf will be the game changer for the industry. He predicted that 10 percent of the cars sold would be electric vehicles by 2020. The popularity of electric vehicles will rely on a lot of different things: the state of the economy, how many people can actually afford to buy the cars and the price of gasoline — how high does it have to be? All New Nissan Leaf Coming out December 2012 } } “This is the game-changer for our industry!” ~Carlos Ghosn Nissan’s president and chief executive time ¬ spring 2012 14 15time ¬ spring 2012 time T Instruction by Randy Wesenick & Matt Klug he NTC Automotive Technology Associate Degree and the Automotive Technician Diploma programs are driven to present the students a combination of technical skills, soft skills, and hands-on experience in preparing them for the competitive and ever-changing automotive industry, while instilling in them the understanding that their learning has just begun. With today’s technologies the modernisms of engine controls, suspension systems, brake systems, automatic transmissions, performance systems, and electrical accessories changing so fast it means that no matter how futuristic these advancements may seem, they are just steppingstones paving the way for the technologies of tomorrow. Students spend 35-40% of their time in class learning automotive theory. Simulator boards are used to assist in learning and comprehension. Recently added was an Internet based interactive training program called ARGO which allows students to focus on problem solving and further develop their critical thinking skills. The remaining 6065% of the time is spent in an automotive shop environment. For students to further develop critical thinking skills, vehicles are NTC’s AUTOMOTIVE PROGRAM programmed to fit specific repair scenarios. And at the advice of the automotive Advisory Committee a Service Advisor class was added to further develop soft skills. of the internal combustion engine. With the advent of variable valve timing and cylinder displacement technologies this makes it crucial for the complete understanding of At present time there are 15 sections how the engine is designed and operates. in the automotive program. Students will Students then move on to Brake Systems. begin with Automotive Fundamentals. The Students study the design, construction, and Automotive Fundamentals class is important service of vehicle braking systems dealing in regards to getting students accustomed with such things such as disc brakes, drum to the fast-paced world of automobile quick brakes, power brake units, and hydraulic service. Students will learn the proper and systems with an introduction to the parking safe procedures for mounting and balancing brake systems. } } “..driven to present the students a combination of technical skills, soft skills, and hands-on experience in preparing them for the competitive and ever-changing automotive industry.” tires, engine maintenance, suspension and differential maintenance, and electronic headlight aiming. The next class is Manual Transmission and Drive Train, which focuses on the diagnosis and repair of clutches, manual transmissions, and differentials in driveline systems. At this point the student is introduced to electrical with the Electrical Electronic Systems One class. Blocks four and five of the automotive class introduce the students to the theory, diagnosis, and repair Next in line is Steering and Suspension Systems, which includes ball joints, tie rod ends, alignments, wheels and tires. By completing these classes in their first two semesters the student can be ready to join the ranks of professional technicians in a part-time role while finishing their last year school. Students close out their second semester with Climate Control Systems. This section covers both heating and air-conditioning of time ¬ spring 2012 16 today’s vehicles including emphasis placed in the area of maintenance and repair of the AC systems along with the electronic controls. Both manual and automatic controls are discussed and repaired. Semester three starts with Electrical and Electronic Systems Two covering starting and charging systems. This section focuses on batteries and alternators along with their electronic and computerized controls. Students then move into Electrical and Electronic Systems Three. Electrical Three gets deep into the diagnosis and repair of today’s complicated systems. As today’s vehicles get more computerized, the importance of understanding all characteristics of electronic and electrical systems is more important than ever. Almost every aspect of vehicle performance is controlled with a module or a computer, which in turn is controlled by returning signals from hundreds of sensors located in various spots throughout the vehicle electrical. This can be the most entertaining yet challenging aspect of automotive repair. Check us out on Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/NTCAutomotive Transmission and Transaxle class. The emphasis in this class is on the diagnostic procedures and problem-solving techniques associated with servicing and repair of automatic transmissions and transaxles for automobiles and light trucks. All previous classes lead students into Semester 4, which has the most technical, and mind challenging classes, starting with Engine Performance 1. The first Engine Performance class initiates students into the world of computerized control engine performance and operation. Students learn about fuel systems, including fuel injectors and in tank electric fuel pumps, and how they are controlled all depending Getting right back into it, students on the customer’s demands on the vehicle. then experience the complicated world This is just the beginning of their engine of automatic transmissions in Auto Taking a break on the technical side the students now practice their soft skills in Service Advisor Techniques class. The students learn to write accurate shop repair orders and quickly and effectively analyze customer’s problems. As a service consultant they will play a key role in converting the customer’s description of a problem into a shop repair order and sale. 17time ¬ spring 2012 performance training as they touch on sensors and their effects on the engine’s operation. Engine Performance Two further develops the skills to diagnose and repair engine performance faults. Emphasis is now placed on diagnostic procedures and problem solving techniques associated with automotive engine performance and drivability. Students will examine onboard diagnostic systems, which monitor ignition fuel EGR, EVA P, and other systems that can affect vehicle emissions. Students will diagnose and repair customer concerns involving symptoms with or without diagnostic trouble codes in the power train control module. Continued on Page 31 Proudly supports Great people, great product, great prices! time ¬ spring 2012 18 19time ¬ spring 2012 time Instruction by Veronica Hope NTC Welding Program N TC’s Welding Programs offer a variety of choices in scope, length, and delivery mode. Students can take a single course, a certificate, or an entire diploma. Classes are available in traditional lecture/lab format, or in open-enrollment, self-paced format. Classes are available at the Wausau, Antigo, Phillips and Spencer campuses. All NTC welding courses are designed to guide learners in developing core universal welding skills and reflect the most current processes and practices of local industry. The two semester (1 year) Welding Technology diploma encompasses a broad skill base. Diploma students spend about 20 hours per week in the welding lab as they progress through a series of welding processes courses. Learners begin with SMAW, or “stick” welding, progress through “mig” welding with solid and fluxcored wires, and finish up their year with “tig” welding. Cutting processes and courses in blueprint reading, metallurgy, and automation are also included in the Welding Technology diploma. SMAW } } “...choice in scope, length, In shielded metal arc welding, students begin to understand the and delivery mode.” nature of the welding arc and the molten puddle. They learn to “read” the puddle, and to respond with adjustments in arc length, electrode angles, and travel speed. Reading and controlling the puddle takes hours of repetition and close observation. Students use a variety of stick electrode types, and weld in all positions. Welding in the vertical or overhead position requires much more skill and patience than welding in the flat and horizontal positions. Each weld undergoes visual inspection. Usually a weld that is free of visible defects is also sound. Destructive tests can reveal defects that are not visible on the surface of a weld. Students conduct bend tests on several of their stick welds. These tests allow students to see how their welds hold up under stress. GMAW/FCAW In the second quarter, students begin gas metal arc, or “mig” welding. This process makes use of an electrode wire, instead of a stick. Since the wire is mechanically fed into the puddle, the process is far more efficient than stick welding. Electrode wires come in a wide variety of sizes and composition. These wires can be fed at different rates to achieve a wide range of heat input. The versatile gas metal arc process lends itself well to the fabrication of small subassemblies as well as heavy structures, implements, and vessels. Diploma students use steel, aluminum, and stainless steel wires in all positions. They complete low heat short circuit welds on light plate and sheet, as well as high heat spray transfer welds on heavy plate and shapes. In our district, the GMAW process accounts for a majority of welding . The students must learn to set up machines for the many types and thicknesses of metal they will encounter on the job. Although techniques vary, skill is built through the same intense study of the puddle. Pulsed GMAW offers a variation of the mig process in which weld heat fluctuates between a high value and a low value. This fluctuation provides high deposition rates and joint penetration with lower overall heat input. The cooling periods in pulsed welding reduce warpage time ¬ spring 2012 20 in heat sensitive metals such as aluminum and stainless steel, and parts and materials, and then build it. In addition to fabrication skills, allow for greater flexibility in welding position. Welding students this project fosters teambuilding skills such as conflict resolution, practice pulsed mig welding on steel, aluminum, and stainless steel. time management, work load distribution, and quality assurance. GTAW Welding Automation Gas Tungsten Arc Welding rounds out the second semester. Students work their way from simple welds on sheet steel to full penetration stainless steel pipe to pipe welds. In our area, GTAW is primarily used in the fabrication of tanks and pipe systems for food and chemical processing plants products. For most students, GTAW requires even more repetition to master. It’s an intricate process in which the nonconsumable electrode must be held very close to the molten puddle, and filler metal is added independently. Often, the amperage is variable, and controlled through a foot pedal. Welding around a stationary pipe requires welding in all positions. A high level of manual skill, intense concentration, and hours of practice are needed. Welding diploma students take a welding automation class in their second semester. This class introduces the concepts of CNC programming through the use of a welding robot, an automated plasma shape cutting system, and a CNC brake press. As automation becomes increasingly prevalent in our area, it’s crucial that students gain exposure and understanding of the fundamentals of automated welding. Blueprint Reading Field Trips During their two semesters in the welding program, diploma students participate in frequent field trips. These tours allow the students some insight into our local industry and develop further awareness of industry standard practices. Certificate Welders in our area need more than just welding skill—they As an alternative to the diploma program, the ten-credit need to be able to read blueprints in order to accurately build product. The diploma program includes beginning and advanced Production Welding Certificate consists of process specific courses blueprint reading classes. In these courses, students measure that can be taken in a self-paced, open-enrollment format. Certificate parts, prep them, lay them out, and weld them in accordance students take skill courses in either SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, or GTAW, Continued on Page 29 with blueprints. Projects Welding students work on various projects as they arise throughout the year. Through fabrication projects, students develop an understanding of joint preparation, layout, fitup, and the distortion caused by the heat of welding. Students work in groups to complete a capstone project in their last semester. Each student group develops a part, or a subassembly, of the final product. The teams design their assembly, analyze its cost and function, prepare a production schedule, order 21time ¬ spring 2012 time T Spot Light Recreation/Leisure by Emily Drewek here are many different things to do in the spring, summer, and fall in Wisconsin. Every person has their own different interests for each season. As one of the major ‘vacation lands’ of the Midwest, Wisconsin offers many opportunities for recreation, especially Central Wisconsin. In the spring four wheeling, mudding, is a popular outdoor activity. You can find trails for 4-wheeling in Adams County (Dyracuse Motorcycle Recreation), Ashland County (Dead Horse Run ATV Trail), Marathon County (Burma Trail), and many more. Maps of popular 4-wheeling trails are available by contacting the local visitor’s bureau of Central Wisconsin counties. Central Wisconsin has whatever you’re looking for in outdoor living. Popular camping locales include Franklin Lake Campground in Eagle River; Devils Lake Campground in Baraboo; Wildcat Mound County Park in Neillsville; and Beaver Lake Campground in Mellen. Other attractions in Central Wisconsin are fishing and hunting. If you do not have access to private lands, fishing and hunting grounds can be found by contacting the DNR or a county visitor’s bureau. Licenses are easily available at Fleet Farm, Gander Mountain and other outdoor supply stores. In the fall many people enjoy just going for a drive and looking at all of the leaves and the pretty colors. If you are into going for You can also go golfing in the spring. There are so many different motorcycle rides, fall is a perfect time. Beautiful weather and colorful golf courses in Central Wisconsin that you don’t always have to go fall leaves bring many people out for a scenic drive. to the same one. Some of the most popular golf courses in Central Central Wisconsin is also a great place for winter activities. In Wisconsin include Baraboo Country Club, Pine Valley Golf Course, winter you can go snowmobiling or take your four wheeler out for Cedar Springs Golf Course and many more. a ride on the trails. You can even go skiing or snowboarding. The In the summer there are many more things to do. You can go best place in Central Wisconsin for skiing and snowboarding is at swimming at an outdoor pool or go canoeing. There are many places Granite Peak but there are many other places as well. If you are big in Wisconsin with outdoor water parks or pools where you can relax into fishing then ice fishing on one of Central Wisconsin’s many lakes and soak up some sun. Some of the most popular outdoor water may be for you. fun can be found in Wisconsin Dells. You can also find outdoor water There are many different things you can do in Wisconsin no parks in Sheboygan at the Blue Harbor Resort & Spa; and in Warrens matter what season it is. No matter what your hobbies are you can at the Three Bears Lodge and Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park. always find something to do in Wisconsin. Many visitors, as well as residents, take advantage of Central Visit www.discoverwisconsin.com for even more ideas. Wisconsin campgrounds. From rustic camping to high end resorts, time ¬ spring 2012 22 Workforce Development Addressing the workforce need Programmable Logic Controls (PLC)—With new technologies, come new skills. A group of employees from a local manufacturing facility are on campus taking a PLC class to upgrade their skills relevant to their work. This type of training allows employees to expand their knowledge base, work with new technologies and improve their skills while staying close to home and the Machine Tool and Welding— plant operations. Several individuals are taking advantage Gold Collar Careers—NTC has of two new machine tool and welding been active with the K-12 schools in our sections of specific coursework in each district, along with the Marathon County of those disciplines, contracted through Development Corporation (McDevco) to the North Central Wisconsin Workforce promote Gold Collar Careers. These are Development Board that will provide careers in advanced manufacturing that them will the upgraded technical skills to center around new technology, robotics, laser compete for industry jobs in manufacturing. and nanotechnology concepts. The effort is As a component of the program, a soft- to build awareness of GCC among students, skill curriculum is included providing parents and educators around the need for the students with a broader range of advanced learning in the manufacturing skills (both technical and interpersonal) field. One event has been conducted with to be successful in today’s competitive educators with a Heavy Metal Bus Tour job market. scheduled for spring to manufacturing The Business and Industry Solutions (BIS) team at NTC has been actively working with local business partners and workforce agencies to address the demand for a skilled workforce in this region. The team works in a variety of ways to design a solution, or training program, for each business that addresses the necessary skills for workers to obtain and be successful in the workplace. 23time ¬ spring 2012 facilities showcasing the various equipment and skills necessary to be employable in the field. The BIS team continues to partner with companies to develop solutions based on relationships, performance and results, and delivered by their highly qualified instructors and team. Mark Matthiae President, Crystal Finishing Systems Inc. says, “Crystal Finishing has trained much of our staff through the NTC onsite and school training programs. NTC has been a great partner in customizing their training to fit our company and specific training needs. The instructors do an excellent job in building their coursework to our specific needs and environment. The training has been a tremendous help in improving our overall staff skills and capacity to grow our work force internally and services to our customer base. I would highly recommend utilizing NTC services for training to any manufacturing company looking to improve their staff training programs.” time Supporting by Trevor Beaty S earching for car services can be a daunting task, but Wausau offers a large variety of excellent options to choose from. Whether it’s towing, tune-ups, damage repair, or a full range of dealerships offering service and repair, there are several qualified companies available to help you keep your automobile in top condition. Regular tune-ups are great for keeping your car running like new. There are plenty of certified businesses in the Wausau area to help you ensure that your vehicle is maintaining its optimal condition. Olson Tire and Auto Service offers a large array of tune-up options ranging from battery checks, belt and hose inspections, and tire repair, to transmission maintenance, oil changes, and car cleaning. Stolzes Auto Repair, Auto Select Inc., and Tires Plus Auto Repairs are just a few more of the many companies available to provide you with quality car tune-up services. For cracked windows and windshields, you’ll want to look at one of Wausau’s auto glass repair shops to replace damaged glass before it becomes a serious issue. Some of the glass repair names around town include Safelight Auto Glass, Advanced Auto Glass, Cortright Auto Glass, and NOVUS Glass. need. O’Reilly Auto Parts offers a large variety of parts for reasonable prices. CarQuest and NAPA are also great options when looking for auto repair parts. If your car is beyond repair and you would like to scrap it, you might want to consider calling Rusty’s Auto Salvage. With lots of great reviews online, it would seem that Rusty’s is the place of choice when you need to scrap a car. Rusty’s also provides towing in addition to their auto salvaging services. Other towing services in the area include: Yach’s Body and Custom Towing, Joe Rader Towing, and Schmidt’s Towing and Body. When you’re looking for great auto services in the Wausau area, you’ll find a lot of excellent options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for tune-ups, cleaning, parts, towing, or scrapping, Wausau has a variety of professional companies ready to help you find the best solution for you. Maybe you’re not looking for a tune-up. If you prefer to do your own car repairs, here a few options to help you find the parts you’ll time ¬ spring 2012 24 time WATEA Postcard_Layout 1 3/7/12 3:24 PM Page 1 WE Supporting The W by Becky Kopp What is W WATEA is a gr develop awar Why Join Wheels to Work To help us imp qualified cand ng That Driving The Traini g! Keeps You Runnin Wisconsin Automotive & Truck Education Association Wisconsin Automotive & Truck Education Association (WATEA) is a group of individuals and businesses in the automotive, truck, and transportation industry with the common goal to develop awareness of career paths and opportunities available in the industry. This goal has expanded recently to include assisting the low-income community with transportation needs through the ‘Wheels to Work’ program. Wheels to Work is an integrated community partner. The Wheels to Work mission is to develop a partnership of providers and community minded businesses interested in providing assistance to those truly in need. This unique program is designed to utilize existing educational facilities and businesses to provide much needed vehicle repair and provide access to affordable, reliable transportation. Participants are able to overcome the barrier of unreliable transportation, leading individuals to family sustaining employment and independence. Participants entering the Wheels to Work program take part 25time ¬ spring 2012 in the Money Smart Program through the financial community where they receive individualized training in financial management, budgeting, and vehicle maintenance education. Wheels to Work also engages businesses and schools to } Our Annual M served at 6:0 and see the B programs. Vehicles alsoDetails repaired training Turn Me OverareFor Please RS incumbentAbout workforce at participating repair Contact: Beck WATEA (715) facilities, improving the skills of basic tech- Phone: Email: bkopp@ Visit Us At: nicians to further their careers in the field. www.WATEA.org is a 501C Non-Profit Organization 2011WATEA showed as a successful first year for Wheels to Work. The program awarded 31 } “Bridging community resources to meet needs through education and basic assistance.” http://www.watea.org/wheels-to-work/ develop opportunities for valuable hands- donated vehicles to qualified participants, on training, education and experience in the repaired 13 vehicles for clients, and 8 clients automotive industry. were able to purchase a vehicle through the Wheels to Work receives donated vehi- dealership, resulting in a total of 52 loans cles from members of the community that awarded for the first year of operation. are repaired to road-ready condition and awarded to qualified clients. This creates a win/win/win project for our partners while at the same time providing future assets for the needy. This is done by developing the pathway to use donated vehicles first as training tools at Northcentral Technical College and through local high schools Please Joi FUN A he average American will C spend two weeks of their life T stopped at red lights. S funfactz.com T time Supporting by Jessica Bean Goetsch’s Welding & Machine, Inc. G oetsch’s Welding and Machine, Inc. in Merrill, Wisconsin is a certified supplier of machined and welded parts and assemblies for heavy construction equipment, paving, and automotive companies. Goetsch’s was founded in 1969 by James Goetsch, who was a welder by profession. The company has grown over time and, with numerous expansions and more employees, their manufacturing facility is now approximately 28,000 square feet. Goetsch’s Welding & Machine, Inc. also offers laser cutting, machining, fabricating, and finishing. Goetsch’s offers both MIG and TIG capabilities, stud welding, spot welding, and Robotic welding. Gas metal arc welding, more commonly called MIG welding, is the most widely used and most easily mastered type of welding in the industry. This process is suitable for fusing mild steel and stainless steel as well as aluminum. electrode heats the metal you are welding and gas protects the weld puddle from airborne contaminants. TIG welding produces clean, precise welds on any metal. Stud welding is an instantaneous arc welding process in which a metal fastener is end-joined to a metal surface. There are two types of stud welding processes; Arc stud welding and Capacitor Discharge stud welding. Capacitor Discharge stud welding is used for small diameter fasteners welded to thin base metals. Arc stud welding is used for large diameter fasteners welded to rougher and/ or thicker base metals. Robot welding is the use of mechanized programmable tools, Tungsten Inert Gas, also known as TIG welding, needs a which completely automate a welding process by both performing lot more expertise from the operator. In TIG welding, a tungsten the weld and handling the part. Goetsch’s Welding and Machine Inc. has been around for some time now, and their business has grown rapidly throughout the years. With all the services Goetsch provides, there is a good chance they will be here much, much longer. For more information on Goetsch’s, visit their website at: http://www.goetschs.com/index.htm. time ¬ spring 2012 26 Tech Ed Merrill High School by Amanda Mosher In a time of budget cuts and position eliminations, one might be surprised to find that the Merrill High School Technical Education Department is not only surviving, it’s thriving. Out of Merrill High School’s 1,080 students, 706 are enrolled this semester in Tech Ed classes, and preliminary enrollment shows an estimated 650 are already enrolled for next year (2012-2013). The Technical Ed Department offers a variety of classes in different areas, including Graphics, Building Construction, Women’s Home Mechanics, Small Engines, Metals, Wood Technologies, and CAD. Walking around the department, one can see that it is an outlet for creativity. In the welding area, students are currently working on a burning barrel. The wood tech rooms are filled with miniature model homes students have tediously built by hand. One class designs the homes, “Technical Education is and a different class actually makes the parts not only surviving, and builds them. These it’s thriving.” models are intricately detailed using a laser engraver. No place is safe from creative destruction in the Graphics area. The walls are plastered with magazine covers, posters, bumper stickers and mirrors that the students have designed and created. Even the ceiling tiles are screen-printed. } } The technical education area isn’t just about creativity, it’s about education. According to Pete McConnell, Wood Technologies instructor, “There’s a lot of hands-on work from the beginning to the end bringing math, science, and reason together to complete a project.” When asked what their focus is as instructors, and what they hope to accomplish, Tom Andreska, Graphics instructor states, “We want to expose the students to a variety of different things. We hope that they will continue into a technical school and stay within the field.” Most credits from the CAD and Graphics programs are accepted as transfer credits at Northcentral Technical College. 27time ¬ spring 2012 SULZER MACHINE & MANUFACTURING, INC. 2475 SPRING BROOK RD, MOSINEE WI 54455 PHONE: (715) 443-2569 FAX: (715) 443-2386 WWW.SULZERMACHINE.COM • • • • • • PRECISION MACHINING & FABRICATION MACHINING & TURNING CENTERS CNC BORING BAR BLANCHARD GRINDING MANUAL LATHES & MILLING MACHINES FIXTURING/PROTOTYPING/WELDING • • • • • • ON-SITE MACHINING & WELDING VERTICAL BORING MILLS CENTERLESS GRINDING BROWN & SHARPE CMM ROMER ARM PC-DMIS SOFTWARE While Merrill High School’s technical education courses have been safe from budget cuts thus far, they were marked for elimination not long ago. There used to be a huge welding focus, but because of a lack of instructors, Merrill High School now offers only one welding class. “We used to have eight instructors in the Tech Ed Department, now we are down to three” explains Tom Andreska. “When budget cuts have to be made, we are looked at because we are expensive. Our supplies are expensive. F UN A C T S Our machines are expensive. Take away a math class, and what do you really save by not having to purchase a book? The Tech Ed Area costs a lot of money to run.” Expensive or not, Merrill’s student enrollment has proven the technical education department is popular. The falls in Niagara, Wisconsin has the same geological feature as Niagara Falls, in New York. time ¬ spring 2012 28 Continued from Page 10 Safety Corner what not to do to stay safe. A small mistake can turn to a huge one in the blink of an eye. There are many ways that a fire can start and many things that can cause a fire in the auto shop. Remember not to work on something that you are not trained on. Car repair that requires welding means that there will be spark, hot slag, flame torch, and many combustible items and parts. A major thing about auto repair is to not let any spark get inside a car when welding pieces together. Here are some tips to help you prevent a fire from happening in auto repair. • Never use aerosol sprays near an • Welding should be performed in open flame. areas that are far from combustible • Don’t store oily rags in a closed materials. container. • Inspect electrical cords regularly for • Never work on fuel system when frayed wire. engine is running or hot. Remember that all fire can be prevented • Clean oil spills immediately. if you take the time to look around and • Store flammable liquids in a metal study your work area instead of just taking a cabinet away from your work area. quick glance. • Make sure you work area is well ventilated. • Always keep a fire extinguisher in the shop and know where it is. Continued from Page 29 NTC Welding Program blueprint reading, and metallurgy class. This certificate ladders into the diploma program, so students can start in the certificate program, and shift into the diploma program. Certificates are a popular option for people who are working in the field, but want more training in a particular process. High schools Most of NTC’s district high schools offer the Introduction to Welding course that starts off both the diploma and the certificate programs. Students can earn two free credits in the Welding program while they’re still in high school. 29time ¬fall 2011 Continued from Page 9 The Automobile Through the Ages was built in 1890 using a Daimler engine. knows or at least has heard about. But it still Peugeot was formed in France the following wasn’t until 1913 until Ford fitted moving year and is still going strong to this day. assembly lines to the factory and became With the automobile getting faster and the world’s biggest car manufacturer. By more advanced, it was natural for people to 1927, over 15 million Model Ts had been start developing a taste for speed. Wilhelm made. Workers on the production line could Maybach built the first four-cylinder, four turn out a car in just 93 minutes. stroke engine in 1890 and three years later developed the spray-nozzle carburetor that became the basis for modern carburetor technology. This all led up to his developing the first race car a decade later using lightweight metals fitted with a 35-hp four cylinder engine and two carburetors. All of that may sound like a second language to most, but they were key ingredients in making cars go faster. He named his race car the Mercedes, and it was able to shatter the world speed record at 64.4 km/h (roughly 40 mph). Racing began as cars were being built, even back when the highest legal speed was only 4mph. Races quickly evolved from little chases from town to town to large organized events like the Grand Prix racing, which started in 1894. Innovations in engineering soon saw competition speeds exceeding 100 mph. Since most races were often held on open roads, fatalities were frequent among drivers and spectators. Racing was not the professional NASCAR variety quite yet. Charles Kettering, who was working for Cadillac’s design and development department at the time, invented the electric ignition and starter motor in 1911. This meant cars could now start themselves. Now electric cars would not have the vibration, smell, or noise associated with the previous gasoline cars. Also, gear changing (which had been the most difficult part of driving), became a thing of the past. The steam-powered cars also had no gear shifting, but they suffered from long start up times—sometimes reaching up to 45 minutes on a cold morning. The electric vehicle was the preferred choice by many because it didn’t require the manual effort to start and there was no wrestling with gear shifting. controls on harmful emissions, which the rest of the world would soon follow. Seatbelts became mandatory, where before the manufacturers only included them as an optional extra. Antilock braking systems (ABS) weren’t developed until 1978 by German manufacturer, Bosch. They first appeared in trucks and cars made by MercedesBenz. The ABS system allowed the driver to maintain steering control and shortened braking distances. Now engineers and manufacturers are working on ‘going green.’ In the late 90’s they acknowledged that oil reserves would dry up in the future and started working on engines that used more than one fuel source—hybrid engines. Honda and Toyota initially introduced their petrol/electric hybrids to the Japanese market before releasing them in America and Europe in 2002. Now cars are capable of reaching over 40 miles per gallon, and some even run on electricity (though obviously improved since the original electric cars of the 1900s), and Kettering also introduced independent only need to be charged between trips. suspension and four-wheel brakes. By 1930, most of the technology used in automobiles now had already been invented. Improvements were all that was left to work F U N oconuts kill more people in A on for the next hundred years. the world than sharks do. In 1903, over a hundred years after Skip ahead three decades and most the start of all this, we finally get the Ford auto news was about improving safety and Motor Company that almost every American saving money. In1965, California introduced C T S C Approximately 150 people are killed each year by coconuts. 30time ¬fall 2011 Continued from Page 17 NTC Automotive The Automotive program will add an Advanced Chassis Systems class in Spring 2012. This class will cover skills needed to diagnose and repair automotive antilock brake, electronic steering, and electronic suspension systems. This course will assist in allowing students to focus on new traction and stability controlled vehicles. Two new late model vehicles were added to the fleet for this class. Continued from Page 3 Lean Sigma Certificate of Lean and Six Sigma to identify and improve opportunities from their workplace. The final session is a team presentation of their project. Members of their organization will be invited and encouraged to attend. Each participant will be prepared for Lean and Six Sigma Green Belt certification through the American Society for Quality and The As the automotive industry makes advances in hybrid Society of Manufacturing Engineers upon successful completion of automobiles, NTC has revised curriculum to meet the changes. the certificate. A course on hybrid vehicles allowing students to focus on entryCertificate Courses include: level skills in the repair, servicing and maintenance of hybrid Lean – 3 credits vehicles and powertrains, will be offered in the Spring 2012. The Continuous Improvement – 5 credits course includes safety procedures and practices when working on Six Sigma – 5 credits hybrid components, study of hybrid electric system components Six Sigma Project – 1 credit and operation, exploration of current and future hybrid vehicles, Contact service procedures and considerations of hybrid powertrains, and an Fred Morrey introduction to hydrogen fueled vehicles. Three hybrid vehicles were Certified Six Sigma Black Belt added to the fleet to enhance the hands-on experience. Applied Engineering Technology Instructor The automotive industry has a high demand for qualified 715-803-1268 technicians who complete automotive training programs. Future [email protected] job opportunities for automotive technicians are expected to be plentiful. NTC’s Automotive Technology program has produced many automotive technicians since the program began. Graduates continue to succeed in many automotive and truck related positions. Continued from Page 2 Students have gone on to become Service Advisors, Service Greisbach Auto Managers, shop owners, technicians at dealership and independent Voted best in Everest 2008, 2009, and 2010, all of their work is shops, and even college instructors. guaranteed for 36 months or 36,000 miles on all new parts they sell and install. Our waiting room has wi-fi and offers a comfortable place to wait. Griesbach’s offers an Iron-Clad Warranty Policy so you can have total confidence in ALL repairs performed by our ASE Certified Technicians. As a Napa Auto Care Center Griesbach’s also provides the Peace of Mind Warranty that is Nation Wide for 12 months/12000 miles. 31time ¬fall 2011 Red Line Full Page Ad 7"W x 9.5"L $100 Red/Blue 1/2 Page Ad 7"W x 4.75"L $50 Join the other advertisers! Place an ad advertising your company in the NEW NTC time magazine. * Low Rates * Distributed to over 300 business in Wausau and the surrounding area. Note: NTC time magazine is printed and distributed quarterly. Now taking ads for the Fall 2012 issue. To place your ad contact Bud Young at [email protected] Red/Blue/Green 1/4 Page Ad 3.5"W x 4.75"L $25 Green/Yellow/Red 1/8 Page Ad 3.5"W x 2.375"L $12.50 Central Wisconsin’s Industrial & Trade Magazine Keep in touch with Central Wisconsin’s Manufacturing & Trade Industries • Partnership • Collaboration • Cooperation GCT Printing Company Northcentral Technical College GCT Printing Company Northcentral Technical College G C Printing Company T Northcentral Technical College G C T Printing Company G C T Northcentral Technical College Northcentral Technical College NON-PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT 578 WAUSAU, WI
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