Words by Linley Allred | Images by Al Blanton

Oakman High School student Noah Edgil is on track to graduate from college before he graduates from high school.

Through Bevill State Community College’s dual enrollment program, Noah expects to complete his two-year machining program in May 2027, a full year before receiving his high school diploma. With a job already secured at Marigold Works, he’s also getting an early start on his career.

Noah is among a growing group of students taking advantage of dual enrollment opportunities in machining and other technical programs at Bevill State, gaining valuable skills and credentials while still completing their high school education.

“I chose this route because I wanted to be an engineer in the Army. After talking to my counselor and some people here at Bevill, I saw a chance to do something I was really interested in even faster. I will graduate from the two-year machining program at Bevill in May 2027 and from Oakman High School in May 2028,” he says.

Machining is a manufacturing process that uses specialized tools and equipment to remove material from metal, plastic, or other substances, shaping them into precise parts and components. The work involves both traditional, manually operated machinery and advanced computer-controlled equipment.

At Bevill State, students gain hands-on experience with both methods through the college’s two-year Machine Tool Technology program, preparing them for opportunities in a variety of industries.

According to instructor Nathan Poe, the program equips students with skills that are in demand among employers throughout the region.

“After completing two years at Bevill State, you have the knowledge to work for companies such as Wilson Machine and Welding, Birmingham Gear, Marigold Works, and many others in this area. Often people start out at a pay rate of $18-20 per hour, and many companies offer periodic bonuses,” he says. “You are learning the most up-to-date stuff in our shop here on our Sumiton campus (the program is also offered on the Hamilton campus) that is only two years old and consistently updated.”

While machining has traditionally been associated with physically demanding, sometimes messy work, Poe says advances in technology have transformed the profession. Today’s facilities rely heavily on sophisticated equipment, and workers must continually develop their skills to keep pace with industry innovations.

For prospective students, seeing that technology firsthand can make all the difference.

Local high school counselors and career coaches play an important role in introducing students to Bevill State’s technical programs. Still, Poe encourages interested students to visit campus and experience the learning environment for themselves.

He explains that “even if you bring them information, I always suggest a tour where you can lay hands on it and actually see how the machines work. People have an idea in mind that this is messy work, but it’s very different now with the machines handling most everything. And this is a profession where you never stop learning. New advances are being made every day, and the employees have to adapt.”

That opportunity is attracting students at different stages of their educational journeys. Poe estimates that enrollment in the machining program is divided roughly equally between traditional college students and high school students participating through dual enrollment.

Financial assistance also helps make the program accessible. Dual enrollment scholarships help eligible high school students cover class costs, while the Gene Haas Foundation provides additional scholarships for traditional students.

To learn more about machining or other technical programs at Bevill State Community College, visit bscc.edu or call 1-800-648-3271. High school students are also encouraged to speak with their school counselors about dual enrollment opportunities. 78