WCTC Instructor Wins Mold Maker of the Year Award

Waukesha County Technical College instructor Bob Novak has been awarded the 2012 Mold Maker of the Year by the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) Mold Making and Mold Design Division.

The award recognizes one industry professional who has contributed to the betterment of the mold making industry. Last year’s award winner hailed from China.

Novak has been an instructor at WCTC since 1990. He has instructed various courses in the Tool and Die apprentice and two-year diploma programs, including Machine Tool Operation, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Programming & Machining, Mold Making, Mold Design, Mold Making Apprentices and Plastic Injection Mold Set-up Apprentices. In addition, he teaches short-term CNC contract classes for a variety of local companies. He is assisting this semester with a Metals class for Kettle Moraine High School in Wales, Wis.

“This award is an incredible accomplishment for Bob,” said Mike Shiels, dean of the College’s Industrial and Engineering Technologies division. “The fact that he was chosen from mold makers all over the world is a testament to his skills and dedication to his craft. We are fortunate to have him guiding our Tool and Die/Moldmaking program.”

Novak said he was humbled to win the award and enjoys working with students. During his tenure nearly 400 students have graduated and have taken jobs in the precision machining industry.

“It’s rewarding to see these students start with little or no experience and work themselves into a great career path,” Novak said.

Novak is a Journeyman Tool & Die/Mold Maker and holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Wisconsin – Stout in Career Technical Education and Training. He and his wife have two adult sons and live in the Town of Ottawa.