Ozarka, BRTC sign partnership agreement for precision machining, gunsmithing programs

BRTC’s Martin Eggensperger and Ozarka College’s Dr. Josh Wilson

Ozarka College in Melbourne and Black River Technical College in Pocahontas have signed a memorandum of understanding that allows students to enroll simultaneously in Ozarka’s precision machining program and BRTC’s gunsmithing program.

The agreement provides for the sharing, transfer and articulation of credits between the two programs, aimed at helping students progress more efficiently toward certification and employment in skilled trades.

“We are excited about this new partnership and the future of this program with BRTC,” Ozarka Provost Chris Lorch said in a statement. “We are looking forward to seeing this agreement further advance the education and employability of students at both BRTC and Ozarka College.”

Ozarka officials said the precision machining program shares a significant portion of its curriculum with BRTC’s gunsmithing program, allowing students to transfer credits seamlessly and complete certifications or a degree in gunsmithing more quickly.

Ozarka’s precision machining technology certification prepares students for high-demand manufacturing careers. Training includes manual machining, computer numerical control (CNC) programming, setup and operation of mills and lathes, as well as blueprint reading and measurement skills.

For more information, contact James Spurlock, Ozarka’s Ash Flat campus director, at 870-994-7273 or jspurlock@ozarka.edu.

Above, from left to right: Stephen Wright, Phillip Dickson, Chuck Coe, Jason Smith, Brad Baine, Graycen Bigger, Chris Lorch, Marcus Orf, Michael Smith, and James Spurlock. Seated, left to right: Martin Eggensperger and Dr. Josh Wilson.

Images: Ozarka College