KCC Adds New Industrial Trades Equipment in Battle Creek

Kellogg Community College has added three major pieces of training equipment at its Regional Manufacturing Technology Center in Battle Creek, expanding hands-on instruction for students preparing for industrial careers.

The additions are a W.F. Wells band saw for metal cutting and fabrication, a Clausing Colchester 15-inch lathe for precision machining practice, and a five-ton overhead crane designed to strengthen industrial lab capability and safety training.

KCC said the equipment will help its industrial-trades instruction better reflect modern workplace expectations while giving students more opportunities to practice with tools they may encounter on the job.

The college’s RMTC campus at 405 Hill Brady Road is built around hands-on, competency-based learning and includes working machines, technical tools and specialized training labs.

Industrial Trades Chair and Director Dr. Handel Fraser said the investments support safer operations, stronger student preparation and closer alignment with the needs of today’s manufacturing workforce.

KCC offers manufacturing, skilled-trades and applied-technology training in Battle Creek and at additional locations in Albion, Coldwater and Hastings.

Programs at the RMTC include pathways in areas such as industrial machining, welding, electricity and electronics, maintenance technology, pipefitting and HVAC-R.

Prospective students can begin by applying to KCC, completing the Industrial Trades orientation process and meeting with an instructor to select modules that fit their goals and prior experience.

The college also works with employers through Workforce Solutions and company-sponsored training, connecting the same facilities and instructors with regional workforce needs.

The equipment announcement first appeared in KCC’s September 2026 BruIN magazine and was published by KCC Daily on November 2nd, 2026.

What new equipment did KCC add at the RMTC?

KCC added a W.F. Wells band saw, a Clausing Colchester 15-inch lathe and a five-ton overhead crane.

Where is the Regional Manufacturing Technology Center?

The RMTC is at 405 Hill Brady Road in Battle Creek’s Fort Custer Industrial Park.

How can someone explore KCC Industrial Trades training?

Prospective students can review the programs and admissions steps, complete orientation and meet with an instructor at the RMTC.