Incoming NCATC President Nick Graff (left) with John Robison, outgoing president
For immediate release — Nov. 16, 2017
News brief
(DALLAS) — Nick Graff, executive director of the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Centers for the Dallas County Community College District, has been elected to serve as the president of the National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers. His term begins Jan. 1, 2018.
NCATC, a council affiliated with the American Association of Community Colleges, is a network of higher education resources that advocates and promotes the use of technology applications that enhance economic and workforce development programs and services.
As executive director of DCCCD’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology Centers, Graff leads and oversees the development of economic development-driven programs and training to help lower the growing poverty level in Dallas County and the DFW area.
He previously worked for Anoka Technical College in Anoka, Minn., a suburb of Minneapolis, where he led its Manufacturing Technology and Industrial Engineering initiative within customized training. Through Graff’s efforts, the college’s nationally recognized Precision Sheet Metal and Fabrication Academy trained approximately 500 students who were employed in Minnesota.
Graff said his plans for NCATC would focus on inclusion and on expanding the number of members and strategic partners. “We want to educate as many people as we can about NCATC and engage a new generation of people who work to create ‘career path’ opportunities for individuals who aren’t aware of the industry,” he said.
Graff added, “Advanced manufacturing today is as much about computer programming as a career in information technology. No one can relate to or wants to work in what we call a ‘DDD’: dirty, dark, dangerous factory. We’re taking about emerging technologies like robotics, additive manufacturing, lasers, wearable technology and more.”
Graff, who holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communications from Iowa State University, previously worked as a television reporter, anchor and producer. He is pursuing a master’s degree in business administration.
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