The Gene Haas Foundation, established in 1999 by Gene Haas, aims to support the needs of local communities and to address the industry-wide need for skilled manufacturing employees. It focuses on both community support through grants to various charities and the promotion of manufacturing training programs globally. By awarding scholarship grants, sponsoring CNC competitions, and partnering with top CNC training programs, it seeks to increase access to high-quality manufacturing technology training worldwide.
The Gene Haas Foundation's Education Grants and the Post Secondary Program aim to increase the pool of skilled workers in the manufacturing industry, recognizing the direct impact of skilled labor availability on the future of manufacturing globally. This is achieved by providing financial assistance for students pursuing manufacturing-based careers through scholarship programs. These programs support career centers, technical schools, community colleges, and universities. Funding is directed towards attracting prospective students to advanced manufacturing training programs, sponsoring individual and team CNC competitions, and partnering with top CNC training programs worldwide. For CNC machine technology students, scholarships can cover tuition, books, and small personal tools required by their programs, with amounts ranging from $500 to $2500 per student. Additionally, a portion of the funds may sponsor competitions that highlight Manufacturing and CNC Machining Skills, aiming to build skills in the machining industry.