Operation Next Welding and Machining Rapid Training
Program Overview
The Operation Next program provides free welding or CNC machining certification and training to veterans or immediate family members.
The Next Frontier Advanced Manufacturing Institute (NFAMI) is a Montana non-profit which successfully executes Operation Next by fundraising and recruiting. NFAMI has partnered with Highlands College of Montana Tech since 2022 to bring the Operation Next program to Montana to engage, lift, and inspire transitioning members of our armed services and veterans with skills-based training for advanced manufacturing.
Operation Next is a rapid advanced manufacturing certification program developed by LIFT, the non-profit Department of Defense national advanced manufacturing innovation institute. LIFT has partnered with NFAMI over the last several years to support Montana veterans and future veterans by providing nationally recognized certifications in welding and CNC machining in addition to accentuating the skills obtained through service.
Program Delivery
The courses in welding and CNC machining include in-person instruction/training on weekends, as well as online coursework completed at home. The schedule is flexible for participants to accommodate their workweek schedules.
Costs
The program is paid for and students incur no cost.
Start Dates
Fall 2025 classes will be available soon. Please contact Mark Samson for more information.
Operation Next will help me achieve the certifications I need to justify the experience I have acquired over the years to apply to be an Allied Trades Warrant Officer. I then would be considered a subject matter expert in anything shop/welding related. This would boost my career in the military and allow me to provide for my newborn and 2-year-old son and help me give them the life I never had.
Staff Sergeant Brandon Bauer of Jefferson City Montana Army National Guard's 1-189th General Support Aviation Battalion
Being apart is one of the hardest parts of having a fiancé in the Montana National Guard’s 230th Engineer Support Company says Taylor Warner of Deer Lodge.
A dedicated team at Highlands College has experienced great success since January 2023, when it began educating veterans and their families through a program called Operation Next.
America's debt to its veterans and their families is immeasurable. A new program at Highlands College works to help connect families who have sacrificed so much with careers in the welding industry and CNC machining industry.
We can answer your questions and help you get started.
Program Manager
msamson@mtech.edu
406-496-3737