The computerized machining technology (CNC) program at Arkansas State University-Beebe has been awarded a $19,000 grant from the Gene Haas Foundation.
Derrick Holobaugh, senior instructor of CNC on the Searcy campus said the grant will provide scholarships, as well as fees for students to compete at SkillsUSA. Also, $3,000 was designated for instructor attendance at the 2026 Haas Technical Education Community (HTEC) Annual Conference held this year at the Calhoun Community College in Decatur, Alabama.
"These funds will open the door to higher education for students who might not otherwise afford to attend college," Holobaugh said. "It will also enhance the CNC program and strengthen job opportunities for students in the computerized machining industry."
Students can earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in computerized machining, which encompasses skills in manual machining, computerized numerical control and programming, computer aided design, computer aided manufacturing, and 3D modeling. Classes in the Associate of Applied Science degree are transferable to multiple bachelor’s degree options at Arkansas State University.
Gene Haas Foundation
The Gene Haas Foundation’s primary goal is to build skills in the machining industry by providing scholarships for CNC machine technology students. It also provides students with the experience of collaboration with a team by competing in a competition that highlights design, engineering and manufacturing with CNC machined parts as a primary component. The Gene Haas Foundation donates millions of dollars every year to manufacturing education, bringing the total since inception to more than $100 million.
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