CLARKSBURG — Established in 1973, the Machine Tool Technology Program at United Technical Center, Gore, set a new height in program history by becoming nationally accredited by NIMS as of Dec. 22, according to a press release from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills. The accreditation is the highest benchmark for metalworking training programs in the United States as based on national, industry-written and industry-driven skills standards, according to the press release. Tech center staff and faculty met the stringent quality requirements set forth by NIMS, which included a program self-audit, the certifying of faculty and students in NIMS national industry credentials, and an intensive two-day on-site evaluation at the center. The on-site evaluation occurred in November. The visit included a comprehensive facility inspection, observation of student safety habits and a series of in-depth interviews with faculty, administrators and local employers. This accreditation is based on NIMS National Skill Standards for Machining Level I with a focus on manual machining skills.