Workforce Development - Western Maryland Works | Allegany College of Maryland

Workforce Title

What is Advanced Manufacturing?

Advanced Manufacturing leverages cutting-edge technologies and methods to refine and elevate conventional manufacturing practices, leading to advanced efficiency, productivity, & quality. At Western Maryland Works, we develop courses and training programs for this, aimed at strengthening the workforce in the surrounding tri-state area.

Machining

Our machining lab places a strong emphasis on safety. It is crucial to wear protective eyewear, long pants or jeans that are free of holes and frays, and durable closed-toe shoes to ensure a safe working environment.

Machinist Program

Class | 4/7/26-11/25/26, M/TH 4PM-8:30PM

Location: Western MD Works – LaVale, MD

Instructor: TBD

Total Cost: $9,000.00

*You may choose to go through the program or take classes as desired. Please note that some courses require others to be completed prior to.

Machinist Foundations (MTT-120)

This foundational course teaches the fundamentals of machining, from safe shop practices to the proper use of hand tools and measurement equipment. Students will work directly with common materials developing the accuracy and

confidence required in modern manufacturing. Upon completion, participants are well prepared to continue into advanced manual and CNC coursework. Students will have the opportunity to earn the following NIMS credentials: Measurement, Materials & Safety, and Job Planning, Benchwork, & Layout.

Class | 4/7/26 - 5/8/26, M/TH 4PM-8:30PM

Location: Western MD Works – LaVale, MD

Instructor: TBD

Course Cost: $1,000.00

Manual Machining – Milling (MTT-121)

Gain hands-on experience operating milling machines and drill presses in a controlled shop environment. Students will learn how to properly set up equipment, select appropriate feeds and speeds, and apply safe and accurate machining techniques. Throughout the course, participants will machine precision components using standard industry practices that build confidence for more advanced machining work. Students will have the opportunity to earn the following NIMS credentials: Drill Press I, and Milling I. MTT-120 is a prerequisite or by instructor approval.

Class | 5/12/26 - 6/19/26, M/TH 4PM-8:30PM

Location: Western MD Works – LaVale, MD

Instructor: TBD

Course Cost: $1,400.00

Manual Machining – Turning (MTT-122

Advance your manual machining skills through hands-on instruction in lathe turning operations and techniques. This course emphasizes achieving proper surface finish, maintaining tight tolerances, and producing parts with high dimensional accuracy. Students will continue building their precision machining abilities while preparing for more advanced manufacturing applications. Students will have the opportunity to earn the following NIMS credentials: Turning I (Between Centers), and Turning I (Chucking). MTT-120 is a pre-requisite or by instructor approval.

Class | 6/23/26 - 7/30/26, M/TH 4PM-8:30PM

Location: Western MD Works – LaVale, MD

Instructor: TBD

Course Cost: $1,400.00

Precision Grinding (MTT-123)

Learn the fundamentals of precision surface grinding and finishing. Students will perform machine setup, wheel selection and dressing, accuracy alignment, and flatness/parallelism control. This module focuses on achieving tight tolerances, fine surface finishes, and safe grinding practices. Grinding is delivered as its own standalone module due to the specialty involved. Students will have the opportunity to earn the following NIMS credential: Grinding I. MTT-121 and/or MTT-122 is a prerequisite or by instructor approval.

Class | 8/4/26 - 8/19/26, M/TH 4PM-8:30PM

Location: Western MD Works – LaVale, MD

Instructor: TBD

Course Cost: $1,000.00

CNC Milling (MTT-124)

This comprehensive CNC Milling course integrates both machine operations and programming into one streamlined training experience. Students will learn how to properly set up CNC mills, establish coordinate systems, select tools, and apply effective work holding techniques. Instruction covers foundational G-code programming as well as generating tool paths through CAM software. Students will have the opportunity to earn the following NIMS credentials: Drill Press I, and Milling I. MTT-120 & MTT-121 are pre-requisites.

Class | 8/24/26 - 9/29/26, M/TH 4PM-8:30PM

Location: Western MD Works – LaVale, MD

Instructor: TBD

Course Cost: $1,600.00

CNC Turning (MTT-125

This CNC Turning course integrates both operational skills and programming into one cohesive training module. Students will learn how to perform complete lathe setup, select appropriate tooling and work holding, and execute OD/ID turning, threading, and finishing cycles. Training includes writing and modifying G-code programs as well as using part probing for accurate setup and verification. Students will have the opportunity to earn the following NIMS credentials: CNC Lathe Operations, and CNC Lathe Programming. MTT-120 & MTT-122 are pre-requisites.

Class | 9/30/26 - 11/5/26, M/TH 4PM-8:30PM

Location: Western MD Works – LaVale, MD

Instructor: TBD

Course Cost: $1,600.00

Quality Inspection & Special Merit (MTT-126)

This capstone module provides advanced training in quality assurance, blueprint interpretation, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T). Students will deepen their understanding of part specifications and learn how to verify dimensional accuracy using industry-standard inspection tools. The course is ideal for experienced machinists or individuals preparing for roles in inspection, metrology, or quality control. Emphasis is placed on precision measurement, documentation, and ensuring compliance with manufacturing and engineering standards. Students will have the opportunity to earn the following NIMS credentials: Certificate of Special Merit (Quality Inspector). MTT-124 and/or MTT-125 is a pre-requisite or by instructor approval.

Class | 11/9/26 - 11/25/26, M/TH 4PM-8:30PM

Location: Western MD Works – LaVale, MD

Instructor: TBD

Course Cost: $1,000.00

Welding

In our welding lab, safety is our priority! It is essential to wear leather welding gloves, protective eyewear, a welding helmet, and welding jackets at all times during shop usage. Additionally, appropriate attire is required for each class session to ensure your safety. This includes long pants or jeans without holes or frays, a long-sleeve shirt, and sturdy work boots—tennis shoes are not permitted.

Shielded Metal Arc Welding (VTE711)

This 80-hour course will provide participants with a thorough, technical understanding of shielded metal arc welding, welding safety, power sources (AC and DC), electrode classifications, and electrode selection (E6010 & 7018). It also provides training to develop the skills necessary to make quality shielded metal arc welds in all positions (flat, horizontal, vertical up, and overhead) on mild 3/8-inch steel. Single and multiple passes using mild steel, low hydrogen, and iron powder electrodes will be covered. Upon successful completion, the student should be able to perform production welding, millwright work, and general maintenance welding. In preparing for your welding course, you must provide leather welding gloves, protective eyewear, welding helmet, and a welding jacket. The Welding Starter Package must be purchased if you don’t have the necessary gear.

Class | 2/16/26 - 4/29/26, Monday & Wednesday (20 sessions) | 5-9PM

No Class | 3/9/26 & 3/11/26

Location: Western MD Works – LaVale, MD

Instructor: Gary Taylor

Course Cost: $1,650.00

Maryland Senior Cost: $1,640.00

Welding Starter Package: $245.00

Shielded Metal Arc Welding Certification (VTE714)

This 40-hour course will provide training for experienced and trained welders in preparing for certification testing in the shielded metal arc welding process. Test certification will be performed on 3/8-inch steel plate. You will prepare to test in two positions: vertical up and overhead passes. You will also practice welding on test plates to prepare for the final testing. All certification testing will be performed by a Certified Welding Inspector under American Welding Society (AWS) welding specifications and procedures.

Class | 5/4/26 - 6/8/26, Monday & Wednesday (10 sessions) | 5-9PM

Location: Western Maryland Works - LaVale, MD

Instructor: Gary Taylor

Course Cost: $599.00

Certification Testing Fees: $400.00 (Fee includes vertical and overhead tests, certification papers, and ID card)

MIG/TIG Welding (VTE748)

This 40-hour intermediate course is for the welder with basic welding experience. You will train in welding safety, gas metal arc welding (GMAW-MIG), and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW-TIG) processes. The course includes metal arc transfers of short-circuiting, globular, spray arc, and power mode. Also included is instruction in how various shielding gases affect gas metal arc and gas tungsten arc welding. Hands-on experience will be dedicated to welding on basic carbon steel using edge, corner, lap, and fillet welds in all positions. Welding is limited to regular thin, flat material and does not include thick plate, pipe, or other irregular shapes. In preparing for your welding course, you must provide the following items: leather welding gloves, protective eyewear, welding helmet, and welding jacket. The Welding Starter Package must be purchased if you don’t have the necessary gear.

Class | 2/17/26 - 3/26/26, Tuesday & Thursday (10 sessions) | 5-9PM

No Class | 3/10/26 & 3/12/26

Location: Western Maryland Works - LaVale, MD

Instructor: Gary Taylor

Course Cost: $950.00

Maryland Senior Cost: $940.00

Welding Starter Package: $245.00

MIG/TIG Welding Certification (VTE854)

This 40-hour course will provide training for experienced and trained welders in preparing for certification testing in gas metal arc welding (GMAW-MIG) and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW-TIG) processes. Test certification will be performed on 3/8-inch carbon steel plates in vertical and overhead positions. Hands-on experience will include practicing on test plates in preparation for final testing. All certification testing will be performed by a Certified Welding Inspector under American Welding Society (AWS) standards.

Class | 3/31/26 - 5/5/26, Tuesday & Thursday (10 sessions) | 5-9PM

Location: Western Maryland Works - LaVale, MD

Instructor: Gary Taylor

Course Cost: $599.00

Certification Testing Fee: $600.00 (Fee includes vertical and overhead tests in MIG & TIG, certification papers and ID card.)

Welding Bootcamps

Coming Soon

*Welding Starter Packages are not mandatory BUT strongly recommended so that all students are prepared for class with the correct materials. If not purchased, students will still be obligated to have proper safety gear and equipment—a list of these items will be provided upon request.

Industrial Maintenance

Industrial Maintenance courses are currently being updated at this time.

Industrial Maintenance Bootcamps

Coming Soon

Heavy Machinery

Forklift Certification (VTE400)

This course aims to equip students with the necessary skills to operate an industrial powered forklift safely and effectively. It complies with 29 CFR 1910.178, OSHA Powered Industrial Truck Operator Training Standard. Participants will engage in formal classroom instruction, hands-on practical training, and a final evaluation. Those who successfully complete the course will be awarded a certificate of training along with a wallet card. Key topics covered include pre-inspection procedures, loading and unloading techniques, maneuvering and operational skills, relevant rules and regulations, and a strong focus on safety practices. Course costs include the certification, safety helmet, and safety vest.

Location: Western Maryland Works - LaVale, MD

Instructor: Henry Cook

Course Cost: $255.00

Other

OSHA 10 – General Industry (VTE500)

This course provides essential safety and health training designed to help workers, particularly those new to the workforce, recognize and address workplace hazards. The program includes a comprehensive introduction to OSHA, detailing workers' rights, employer responsibilities, and the procedures for lodging complaints. It also covers a range of general safety and health risks, such as slips, trips, falls, electrical hazards, and ergonomic concerns. Participants learn about the correct usage and types of personal protective equipment (PPE) and gain insights into hazard communication, which includes understanding chemical labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS). The course further emphasizes the safe handling of hand and power tools.

Location: Western Maryland Works - LaVale, MD

Instructor: Terrance Steele

Course Cost: $95.00

OSHA 10 - Construction (VTE501)

This course provides foundational safety and health training for individuals entering the construction industry. It is especially valuable for new workers, helping them identify, avoid, and prevent common job site hazards. The course begins with an overview of OSHA, including workers’ rights, employer responsibilities, and how to file a safety complaint. Key construction-related topics include fall protection, ladder and scaffold safety, electrical hazards, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Participants will also learn about hazard communication, including how to read chemical labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and gain practical guidance on the safe operation of hand and power tools commonly used in construction settings.

Location: Western Maryland Works - LaVale, MD

Instructor: Terrance Steele

Course Cost: $105.00

OSHA 30 - Construction (VTE502)

The OSHA 30-Hour Construction Industry Outreach Training Program is a comprehensive safety course designed for supervisors and workers with safety responsibilities in the construction industry or those wishing to further their career into supervision or safety responsible persons. This includes individuals involved in construction, demolition, renovation, and building development of all types

Location: Western Maryland Works - LaVale, MD

Instructor: Terrance Steele

Course Cost: $205.00

For more information on courses, please contact Gracie McLeod,
mmcleod4238@allegany.edu or call at 301.784.5126

For registration and scholarships, please contact Shea Bonarigo,
sbonarigo@allegany.edu or call at 301.784.5279

Meet the Staff

Shawn O'Rourke
sorourke14515@allegany.edu
Director of Western Maryland Works

301.784.5338
Western Maryland Works

B.S., Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Gracie McLeod
mmcleod14238@allegany.edu
Advanced Manufacturing Program Manager

301.784.5126
Western Maryland Works

B.S., MBA, West Virginia Wesleyan College

Suzanne Hartman
shartman1510@allegany.edu
Office Manager, Western Maryland Works

301.784.5236
Western Maryland Works

A.A., Allegany College of Maryland

Shea Bonarigo
sbonarigo@allegany.edu
CE & Workforce Operations Manager of Finance & Registration

301.784.5279
CE-21A

AA, Potomac State College;
RBA, WVU Potomac State College