Whether it’s producing a precision-machined component or documenting a crime scene before evidence disappears, today’s work demands accuracy, speed, and digital confidence. Manufacturing and forensics may serve different missions, but both are being reshaped by the same force: advanced digital metrology.
At Fullerton College in North Orange County, California’s longest-running community college, students are gaining hands-on experience with these tools in labs designed to mirror real-world conditions – preparing them for industries where precision is critical, and the margin for error is razor-thin.
For Episode 3 of the IMTS+ award-winning series “The Architect,” we visited Fullerton to see Hexagon (IMTS booth #134102) technologies in action in an educational setting. “Our goal is to give students every advantage in a digital world,” says Kenneth Starkman, the college’s dean. “By partnering with technology leaders like Hexagon, we’re not just teaching skills – we’re teaching adaptability, problem-solving, and digital fluency.”
Modernizing the Manufacturing Talent Pipeline
Fullerton’s manufacturing program equips students with the practical and digital skills for employers of today and tomorrow. Students train using advanced manufacturing technologies, including CNC machining powered by Esprit CAM software, preparing graduates to work effectively in a wide range of settings.
“We make sure our students understand the fundamentals of manual machining and traditional processes first,” explains Professor of Machine Technology Dan O’Brien. “But here’s the difference: They also learn advanced CAM programming, CNC operation, and digital inspection. So, when they join a company with legacy equipment, they’re not just operators – they’re change agents.”
Focusing on Metrology
Metrology matters more than ever, and Fullerton is leading the way in adopting advanced metrology technology for education. Integrating Hexagon’s Absolute Arm and coordinate measuring machine (CMM) gives students real-world skills that can be applied on the first day on the job. Scott Zanio, metrology sales engineer at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, works directly with Fullerton to ensure students are learning on modern systems that offer unparalleled accuracy, speed, and connectivity.
Digitizing Forensics
Manufacturing is far from the only industry that is going digital. The innovative Crime Scene Lab at Fullerton is helping to train the next generation of investigators with cutting-edge technology. The BLK360 scanner from Hexagon Leica Geosystems allows professionals to capture crime scenes in 3D, modernizing how evidence is collected and analyzed.
This technology helps eliminate human error and improve the prosecution of criminals. “In forensics, details matter. A single millimeter can make or break a case,” explains Kelly Robertson, director of the Crime Scene Investigation Skills Certificate Program. “Digital scans eliminate guesswork and provide indisputable evidence that holds up in court.”
Preparing for the Future
By leveraging industry partnerships with technology leaders like Hexagon and committing to digitalization, Fullerton is preparing students for careers with purpose, growth opportunities, and excellent pay. Students are reaping the benefits, entering the workforce with skills that will serve them well today and into the future.
Watch “Driving Digitalization in Manufacturing & Forensics,” Episode 3 of the IMTS+ award-winning series “The Architect,” powered by Hexagon, at IMTS.com/Fullerton to see how students are using advanced technology to shape the future of manufacturing and forensic science.
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