Manufacturing Meaningful Careers

Since 1994, the University of Pittsburgh’s Manufacturing Assistance Center (MAC) has connected thousands of people with meaningful careers in manufacturing. The MAC trains individuals and professionals in precision manufacturing, CNC programming and CAD/CAM technologies. As a resource of the Industrial Engineering Department of the Swanson School of Engineering, the MAC provides quality training opportunities in an atmosphere where innovation meets advanced technology. The MAC helps students master the technical skills that employers are seek. 

In 2017, the MAC relocated to a state-of-the-art facility in Homewood and has become a technology engagement center for the community. In addition to technical education, the MAC operates a makerspace for the community, offering educational programming for schools and small business development services through PantherlabWorks, an initiative of the University of Pittsburgh’s Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence. The MAC is a true success story of what happens when a university invests in the community and America’s workforce.

MAC News

Facility Programs:

Machinist Training: The MAC's facility is 9,000 sq. ft. containing 2 classroom spaces with dedicated computers for classwork. In addition to the formal classroom space, the MAC's machining lab has manual lathes, manual mills, drill presses, precision surface grinders, as well as HAAS Mills and a MAZAK Turning Center.

The MAC Makerspace: The MAC Makerspace offers small business development and courses taught by Swanson School of Engineering staff, Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence and experts in the field. Equipped with a laser, 3D printers, woodworking and a soft textiles area. The MAC Makerspace encourages makers of all ages to be creative and use their hands through new and emerging technology.