Operation Next Welding and Machining Rapid Training
Program Overview
Operation Next is a program that provides free welding or CNC certification and training to veterans or immediate family members.
The Next Frontier Advanced Manufacturing Institute (NFAMI) has partnered with Highlands College of Montana Tech to bring the Operation Next program to Montana. NFAMI was formed in 2022 to engage, lift, and inspire transitioning members of our armed services and veterans with skills-based training for advanced manufacturing. The first cohort of 30 students began their coursework in a hybrid program with in-class training and virtual learning on January 7, 2023.
Program Delivery
The courses in welding and CNC machining have an online coursework portion and in-person training at Highlands College, done on the weekends to accommodate weekday work 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
We can answer your questions and help you get started.
Program Manager
msamson@mtech.edu
406-496-3737