Okuma America Corporation recently announced that Chris Davala has been chosen to receive one of ten scholarships given to current or transitioning employees in the manufacturing industry from the University of Phoenix and the Manufacturing Institute. This scholarship program focuses efforts on bridging the skills gap within the manufacturing industry that so many employers are experiencing today. This program gives employers a way to encourage their employees to attain educational credentials that will foster professional development. Each full-tuition scholarship allows a prospective student the opportunity to complete an undergraduate or master’s degree program at University of Phoenix campus or online. “I’m incredibly honored to be chosen to receive this scholarship. As someone who is very passionate about the manufacturing industry, I recognize the value in furthering my education to help enhance my skills,” states Davala, “and I’m looking forward to sharing my expertise with others.”

Davala has more than 18 years’ experience in manufacturing, mainly in the NASCAR industry. He joined Okuma America Corporation in 2012 as an applications engineer, where his additional experience with CAD/CAM software, prototyping and fixture design is invaluable as he assists Okuma customers as they go beyond their manufacturing challenges. Davala is one of Okuma’s many productivity experts – all highly qualified to assist with a wide variety of manufacturing challenges.