Gloucestershire Engineering Training Boosts Apprentice CNC Skills with vericut

Gloucestershire Engineering Training (G.E.T.) is enhancing apprentice CNC machining skills through the integration of Vericut verification, simulation, and optimisation software. The move has already made a significant impact, with the first cohort of learners providing positive feedback directly to the organisation’s CEO, requesting that Vericut remain a core part of the curriculum and be further embedded into training.

Founded in 1977, G.E.T. delivers tailored engineering training for companies of all sizes. Its Gloucester headquarters and satellite site in Cinderford serve as hubs for apprentices to gain hands-on experience while learning industry-relevant skills. Operating as part of the GTA England training network, G.E.T. shares best practices and develops apprenticeships designed to ensure learners are work-ready from the moment they complete their programs. In the 2025/26 academic year, the organisation enrolled 164 Level 3 and Level 4 apprentices, all employed within its growing network of more than 100 companies.

Prior to adopting Vericut, CNC training at G.E.T. relied on traditional G-code programming, with learners typing code into Notepad and viewing basic 2D simulations. While effective, this method made it difficult for students to visualise machine movements. Vericut provides complete digital models of CNC machines and accurate collision-checking routines, allowing learners to see tool paths in real time. The software checks the entire motion of the machine, not just individual points, providing a robust safety net that prevents collisions, reduces breakage, and improves reliability.

“Vericut provides a fantastic safety net,” says Jake Weatherley, Training & Maintenance Manager at G.E.T. “It gives our learners confidence in their programs, while freeing instructors to spend more time teaching rather than checking code.”

G.E.T.’s CNC facilities include multiple Haas milling machines and lathes, with plans to expand with a fourth-axis Super Mini Mill and a five-axis UMC-400 machining centre. Vericut will be fully integrated with these machines for the 2026 apprentice intake, supporting advanced training in CADCAM, multi-axis machining, and simultaneous operations.

Apprentices begin CNC training after completing Level 2 and 3 manual milling and turning. They learn programming fundamentals, subroutines, tool changes, and safe movements, progressing from simple 2D profiles to complex machining tasks. While Haas simulators check program syntax, Vericut clearly identifies errors, collisions, and unsafe clearances, bridging the gap between coding and real-world machining.

G.E.T.’s commitment to cutting-edge technology extends beyond CNC training. A new Higher Education Facility, funded by the Gene Haas Foundation, expands Level 4 apprenticeship and HNC/D provision, adding state-of-the-art classrooms, study areas, and workshops for mechatronics training. G.E.T. recruits apprentices for companies across Gloucestershire, including ABB, GE Aerospace, Konecranes, Moog, Renishaw, Safran, and more.

By combining Vericut simulation with hands-on CNC experience, G.E.T. equips apprentices with the skills, confidence, and safety knowledge required to excel in modern manufacturing. The software has already become a vital tool in creating the next generation of industry-ready engineers.

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: https://vericut.com/en-gb/