At the Industrial Arts Institute, staying relevant isn’t a slogan—it’s a responsibility. Our students train for careers in a field that evolves every single year, and our teaching model is built around one core promise: give them the tools, technology, and hands‑on experience they’ll encounter in today’s workforce, not yesterday’s.
That’s why we’re proud to announce the newest addition to our fabrication floor: the Messer Cutting Systems CNC Plasma Table, a cutting‑edge machine that represents the latest in industrial plasma technology. Beginning with Cohort 27, students will train directly on this system as part of their fabrication and equipment competencies.
Why This Matters for Our Students
The Messer system isn’t just a new piece of equipment—it’s a transformational upgrade in capability, precision, and industry alignment. Modern fabrication shops rely on CNC plasma systems for everything from high‑volume part production to intricate custom work. By integrating Messer’s advanced platform into our curriculum, we’re ensuring our students gain experience with:
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Industry‑standard CNC controls and software
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High‑precision cutting for steel fabrication
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Real‑world workflow: setup, programming, and part production
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The same technology used in leading fabrication and manufacturing facilities across the country
This is exactly the kind of equipment today’s employers expect new welders and fabricators to understand—and exactly the kind of equipment our students deserve to learn on.
Teaching on the Cutting Edge
Our training model has always been built around relevance. From collaborative welding robots to oxy/fuel safety training delivered by industry partners, we continually update our curriculum to reflect what’s happening in the field—not what was happening ten years ago.
The Messer CNC Plasma Cutting System strengthens that commitment by allowing us to:
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Expand fabrication competencies with modern CNC workflows
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Give students hands‑on experience with automated cutting technology
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Reinforce the connection between welding, fabrication, and digital manufacturing
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Prepare graduates to walk into a shop and contribute on day one
In short, it keeps our program aligned with the real demands of the industry—and that alignment is what sets IAI graduates apart.
Made Possible Through Extraordinary Donor Support
This transformational addition to our curriculum was made possible through the extraordinary generosity of individuals and foundations who believe deeply in the mission of the Industrial Arts Institute.
With deep gratitude, we honor:
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Offield Foundation
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Casey Cowell
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The Thompson Foundation
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Baiardi Family Foundation, Inc.
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Robert Grove of Nu‑Core, Inc.
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Bill and Bonnie Ahrenberg
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Iron One Foundation
Their belief in our students—and their willingness to invest in the next generation of tradesmen and tradeswomen—has created lasting impact. Because of their support, our students will train on equipment that mirrors the standards of today’s industry. Their investment directly shapes the opportunities available to every student who walks through our doors, and we are profoundly grateful for their partnership.
A Win for Cohort 27 and Beyond
Cohort 27 will be the first to train on the Messer system, stepping into a fabrication environment that reflects the technology and expectations of today’s employers. From programming cut paths to producing clean, accurate parts, they’ll gain skills that elevate their résumés and expand their career opportunities.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to grow, partnerships, technology upgrades, and industry‑aligned training will remain at the heart of what we do. The Messer CNC Plasma Cutting System is more than an equipment upgrade—it’s a statement about who we are and the standard we hold ourselves to.
IAI will always invest in the tools that help our students succeed. Because when they thrive, our communities, our employers, and our industry thrive with them.