Bullen Ultrasonics, known for its expertise in precision machining of advanced ceramics, glass, and specialty materials through proprietary ultrasonic and laser technologies, has introduced its Junior Engineer Program. This comprehensive 24-month initiative is designed to build workforce capabilities by offering participants a clear route to earning an associate degree in engineering or a related technical discipline. Developed in partnership with Ivy Tech Community College, the program highlights the company’s focus on nurturing in-house talent while supporting the growth of the regional advanced manufacturing sector.

“Mastering Bullen’s technologies and processes requires both in-depth technical knowledge and practical experience,” said CEO Tim Beatty.

“Investing in our employees is essential to our long-term success. This program integrates accredited education with hands-on mentorship, preparing our team members to evolve into future engineering leaders within the company.”

Created with guidance from Bullen’s technical experts and aligned with Ivy Tech’s Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Applied Science (AMEAS) curriculum, the program blends classroom learning with on-site labs, mentorship, and project-based training tailored to Bullen’s precision machining operations.

Brandi Jackson, Vice Chancellor of Workforce and Development at Ivy Tech Community College, emphasized the value of the collaboration, noting that it demonstrates how industry and education can work together to deliver career-focused learning. By connecting accredited coursework with Bullen’s operational requirements, the initiative equips employees with practical skills that support long-term career growth while strengthening the local manufacturing workforce.

The program focuses on developing highly skilled, analytical, and data-oriented fabrication engineers from within Bullen’s existing workforce. Selected participants—identified as high-potential operators—remain in their current roles while dedicating structured time to engineering training, reducing the company’s reliance on external hiring.

Mentorship is a central component of the initiative. Each participant is paired with an experienced Bullen engineer who provides technical guidance and exposure to real-world challenges across areas such as process engineering, controls, machine design, and metrology. This structured model builds on earlier informal mentoring efforts, where senior engineers collaborated with interested operators on practical engineering projects.

Springer Smith, ultrasonic technology manager and technical lead for the program, explained that the initiative grew organically from these earlier efforts. As operators expressed interest in engineering careers, regular problem-solving sessions evolved into a more formal structure. By combining mentorship, hands-on projects, and academic study, Bullen established a pathway for employees to transition into engineering roles while reinforcing its long-term talent pipeline.

To maintain strong academic standards alongside practical relevance, selected Bullen engineers have completed Ivy Tech’s instructor certification process. These certified instructors are now authorized to deliver Ivy Tech-aligned coursework and labs on-site, effectively connecting classroom concepts with real manufacturing applications.

Participants can earn Ivy Tech credits applicable toward certificates or an associate degree in engineering. The program uses a flexible format, combining online coursework with instructor-led labs and applied projects conducted at Bullen’s facility.

Spanning four phases over two years, the program begins with foundational concepts and culminates in a capstone project. Core areas of study include mathematics, safety, and machining fundamentals; control theory and process understanding; system integration and data analysis; and a final continuous improvement project.

Throughout the program, participants complete competency-based assignments and performance evaluations. Graduates receive a Bullen Certificate and are well-positioned for future technical roles within the organization. The first cohort will include up to six employees, ensuring focused mentorship and high-quality instruction.

By integrating formal education, certified internal trainers, and ongoing one-on-one mentorship within an active manufacturing setting, the Junior Engineer Program underscores Bullen Ultrasonics’ commitment to continuous learning and internal talent development as drivers of long-term innovation.

Click here to know more about careers at Bulle.

Drake State Unveils Leidos Advanced Training Complex with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
Drake State Community and Technical College celebrated the grand opening of its Leidos Advanced Training Complex today with a ribbon-cutting event that included remarks from College President Dr. Patricia Sims, Leidos CEO Tom Bell, public officials, and local leaders.

The 50,000-square-foot facility, now open on Drake State’s campus, is designed to bolster education and hands-on training in the aerospace and advanced manufacturing sectors. It includes high-demand programs such as precision machining and welding, along with designated areas for additive manufacturing, mechatronics, electrical systems, engineering design, and more. The complex also features laboratories, classrooms, and administrative offices, and will serve as the base for Drake State’s newly launched Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) cohort—a workforce development program introduced in 2024.

“This complex is a game-changer for regional workforce development,” said Dr. Sims. “With this cutting-edge facility, we’re enhancing training capacity in fields where demand is growing rapidly, better preparing students for meaningful careers while also supporting industry needs. We’re grateful to Leidos, our state legislators, and the Alabama Community College System for making this vision a reality.”

The Leidos Advanced Training Complex is one of the cornerstone projects under the Alabama Community College System’s ASPIRE 2030 initiative—short for “Achieving Systemwide Potential through Increased Resources and Engagement.” Funding for the facility came from a statewide bond approved by the Alabama Legislature in 2020 to modernize and expand educational infrastructure.

ACCS Chancellor Jimmy Baker commented on the facility’s long-term impact: “This building will benefit not only Drake State students but the entire North Alabama region. Our mission is to improve lives across the state by ensuring every community has access to the tools and training needed for economic growth. The work being done here will set a standard for excellence in workforce education.”

In November 2024, Leidos contributed $1.75 million to support Drake State’s manufacturing and IT programs, apprenticeship opportunities, technical upgrades, faculty development, and a new scholarship fund. In recognition of this significant gift, the new facility was named the Leidos Advanced Training Complex.

“Huntsville has always been at the forefront of aerospace and defense innovation,” said Leidos CEO Tom Bell. “Our collaboration with Drake State will help develop the next generation of problem-solvers who will tackle national challenges with ingenuity and efficiency.”

Construction began on June 9, 2023. The state-of-the-art building includes 10 labs, seven classrooms, faculty offices, a multipurpose room, tool and equipment storage, a kitchen, break areas, a storm shelter, and a testing suite. Additional features include modern restrooms, digital information displays, and glass observation areas for tours and demonstrations.

The facility aims to provide students with the skills and certifications needed for high-paying, in-demand careers—offered at an affordable cost.

Architectural, civil, and interior design services were provided by Goodwyn Mills Cawood, with Fite Building Company serving as the general contractor.

Click here to know more about the programs now housed in the complex.