ADTC Celebrates Grand Opening during CAMX with Focus on Hands-On Composites Training

The Aerospace & Defense Training Center (ADTC) is celebrating its official grand opening on September 11, coinciding with the Composites and Advanced Manufacturing Expo (CAMX) held nearby in Orlando this year. Located on Florida’s Space Coast, ADTC is dedicated to developing the advanced manufacturing workforce for aerospace, defense and high-tech sectors.

ADTC’s first five-day composites course launches the week of September 22, offering students an immersive, hands-on learning experience. The course is designed for technicians, engineers and managers seeking practical skills in composite materials, layup, bonding, machining and repair. Participants will prepare materials, fabricate layups, cure parts, perform inspections, and complete repairs under the guidance of experienced instructors.

“Our goal is to move students beyond the classroom and give them real-world composite fabrication and repair experience,” says Dr. Greg Mellema, ADTC’s Educational Programs manager. “They will leave this course ready to apply what they’ve learned on the shop floor or in the field immediately.”

The composites lab is equipped to support practical training with capabilities in near-net tooling, precision machining, and thermal processing; however, equipment is only part of its instructional model.

“Students won’t just watch demonstrations. They will be mixing adhesives, performing prepreg layups, operating equipment, and conducting quality inspections themselves,” says Dr. Mellema. “We want them to build the confidence that comes from hands-on practice with expert guidance.”

In addition to composites training, ADTC offers programs in cybersecurity, mechatronics and precision machining, supporting its broader mission to strengthen regional and national workforce capabilities.

The grand opening will include facility tours, demonstrations, and networking opportunities for industry, academic and government stakeholders attending CAMX. ADTC leadership will be available to discuss workforce development partnerships, tailored training programs, and upcoming course offerings.

For more information or to register for upcoming courses, visit https://adtcspacecoast.org.