Details
Axiom Tool Group offers a comprehensive end-user training schedule on Vectric software and our complete lineup of CNC machines. This training will occur each month at our Nashville (La Vergne), TN training center, and will provide attendees with an in-depth VCarve/Aspire 2D, 2.5D & 3D education, as well as hands-on training on their respective machines. Training is open to anyone. Customer cost for each two-day training event is $299 plus travel expenses. Upon registration, you’ll be provided with lodging information via email.
Note that all classes are taught using the current public release of Vectric software. Please be sure to update to the newest release prior to attending. If you don’t own a copy of the Vectric software, a free trial version can be downloaded from the Vectric web site.
* You must be 18 years or older to attend the in-house class.
Level 1 - Introduction to VCarve
• Introduction to 3D, including the placement and cutting of single and multiple models will be shown, using already existing 3D ClipArt from the VCarve and Aspire gallery.
• You'll learn tips and tricks to get you thinking about projects from a different vantage point.
• Please bring your laptop and a copy of Vectric VCarve or Aspire software to follow along with the process.
Topics will include: Vectric 2D & 2.5D Vector Design and Import
We cover the File Operation, 2D View Control, Create Vectors and Text tools using a step by step approach. The second session covers the Transform, Edit and Align Objects tools. Options, tips and techniques for each are covered, with extra attention being paid to Node Editing.
We also cover Offset and Layout Tools, then progresses into material Setup and Toolpath operations. Again, this is an icon by icon look at all but the most advanced toolpath operations. The afternoon finishes up with Toolpath Editing tools and proper file save and transfer procedures, along with a review of covered materials, user questions and examples.
Introduction to 3D & Axiom CNC Basics
Also we show how to place 3D clip art and 3D models into a material block and position for proper cutting. Use of multiple models and combining 3D models with 2D vectors for 2D and 2.5D cutting are also shown. The last part of this session explains the various modeling tools in the Aspire software and how each is used to develop custom models, modify existing models and how to edit and combine existing models into larger or smaller components
You’ll also be presented with many of the day to day items you will run across in your CNC journey in an understandable way. Bits and the differences between them, chipload, feeds and speeds and how to get them correct for your machine. Various hold down methods will also be looked at. We'll then put our new knowledge to work as we create sample projects in the Axiom Test Drive Center.
Level 2 - Advanced VCarve - Introduction to Aspire - Rotary
"Level 2" of the CNC / Vectric Training will explore more of the advanced processes of VCarve and will allow the attendees to expand their ability to use both VCarve and Aspire in a more effective manner. The true strength of the Vectric program becomes apparent when you learn to create challenging projects.
This class, Level 2, will open the doors to some new approaches and to offer new insights of old beliefs.
We do request that you would have attended a Level 1 class before taking this exciting, yet challenging intermediate session. (If you feel you are at a level beyond beginner and would like to attend level 2 without the prerequisite, simply drop us an email with some of your more recent project for us to review).
We recommend Aspire (retail or trial version) so you can get the most out of the class.
Topics to be included:
• Advanced VCarve Techniques
• Rotary / 4th axis basics
• Stacked Text
• Exploring the possibilities of the "Molding Toolpath" in both flat work and rotary work
• Textured Wall Panels
• Beginning Aspire 3-D Modeling
• Two rail sweep, the traditional and non traditional approaches
• Extrude and Weave patterns.
• And the ultimate jpeg to 3-D model process.
Minimum software requirement - Aspire V10.x
Customer Reviews
- Very highly redommended Review by J Gibson
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The facilities and instructor were top of the line. Mike was extremely knowledgeable and was very successful in meeting the needs of all the members of the class who had a wide variety of experience and expectations. I knew of Mike's reputation as the best Vectric software trainer before I got here, and he was even better than I was expecting. His ability to meet the varied expectations and needs of all student at once was outstanding. Most productive four days I have spent in years. Within six months, my son will be starting his journey in the CNC arena. I will be sure he will come back to Axiom for training with Mike. (Posted on 8/18/2022)Rating - Great Training Review by Damon
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I took the on-line course and found it to be very, very useful. I've been using my machine on my own for about 6 months, and can do some very basic projects using the tutorials, but the training takes things to a new level. Not only does Michael take you step-by-step through the creating process, but he takes time to tell you why you take certain steps and why they are important. I think the on-line course may have been more helpful for me than the in-person because I had time to go back and redo things. For example, it took me three tries to get the stacked text technique figured out. This is a must do! (Posted on 7/25/2022)Rating - Recommend without reservation Review by JH HND
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We purchased an Axiom Iconic 8 CNC machine in May 2021. After having used the machine for a year, we thought maybe we knew our way around sufficiently to benefit from the IN-HOUSE TRAINING Axiom offers. They had just announced having moved the training to Nashville, which made it more inviting.Rating
Turns out our class, May 16-17, 2022, was their very first offering in the new JPW Educational Site and Show Room. We’d read rave reviews about class presenter, Michael Mezalick, and his enthusiastic, patient, and thorough style. We’d seen convincing images in the online ads. BUT none of the descriptive narrative nor the promotional images came even close to the real experience. The experience was an UNQUALIFIED SUCCESS!
As background, my career was in higher education. This was the finest training ever! Not only did Michael explain everything completely, but he also made certain we ‘got it’ before he moved on. Peers in the class were also helpful. Superb lunches were provided over the two days, along with high quality snacks, and multiple types of beverages.
Additionally, at the end of the second day, Michael provided on a thumb drive his set of files for every segment he’d presented, and for some he wasn’t able to cover. AND, Michael included some extra files from our discussions during breaks. So, rather than depending on my frantically taken notes to recall, I just find the segment and take my time stepping through it.
Todd Damon, the founder of AXIOM, and Chad McCarty, chief of client support, were on site the entire two days. Todd was warm, engaging, and asked for feedback, what additional features we would like to see, how might they improve their products?
Axiom’s support is the finest ever. One can talk with them on the phone. They return calls—promptly. When we first placed our machine into operation, it seemed as if I had an unlimited number of ‘noobie’ questions. Not once, EVER did staff at HQ make me feel dumb—although looking back, I KNOW those were dumb questions.
This experience is WORTH EVERY PENNY and every MINUTE INVESTED. WE RECOMMEND WITHOUT RESERVATION!
(Posted on 5/21/2022) - Great class Review by Tara
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Level 1 training is great. Facility and instructor are fantastic, accommodations with local hotel providing transportation made it so convenient. Highly recommend and plan myself to come back for level 2. (Posted on 6/19/2021)Rating - Excellent experience all around highly recommend Review by Sidney
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My wife and I own a small wood hobby turned business called Spencer's Custom Wood. We invested in an Axiom Pro CNC machine to help take our business to the next level. We have been using Axiom and Aspire for a little while now, so I decided to come take Levels 1 and Level 2 training. I must say I thought I was good with the Vectric Vcarve/Aspire software and the CNC machine, only to find out that my knowledge barely scratched the surface of what the possibilities are. The instructor Michael is so knowledgeable on Vcarve/Aspire that it is scary. There are just are so many different ways to do things, I have learned processes/tools/tips that will help me to be a lot more efficient in the way of getting things done. During breaks and every chance I got I would ask more of the Axiom team members Chad,Austin and anyone I saw in the halls every question I could think of. No matter what they were doing they would stop and answer every question and make sure I understood, this has so much value in itself. Anyone that is looking to learn Vcarve/Aspire this is definitely worth the investment in yourself no matter what your skill level you will definitely leave with a lot more understanding and knowledge. (Posted on 6/15/2021)Rating - Most Comprehensive Vectric Training I Have Seen Review by CNC Steve
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I have been involved in this industry for almost 15 years and much of my time is dedicated to providing onsite training in Vectric software to schools throughout North America. I believed I had a very good working knowledge of the software and did not expect that I would learn much in terms of the software functionality. Wow, was I ever wrong!! I was amazed at how much I didn't know. I think sometimes we get in a "lane". We learn just what we need to to get by and, often, miss out on so much that it is capable of doing.Rating
What was equally as impressive to me, as a software trainer, was how the diverse the audience was and how everyone seemed to get what they needed out of the course. There were novice users who were getting acclimated to the software and they seemed to be able to grasp the basics. There were more experienced users who, like me, picked up on some finer techniques.
Kudos to Michael for an outstanding job. He has clearly invested significant time in preparing a comprehensive training program and I look forward to the next opportunity I have to be a part of one of the training workshops. Having trained teachers and students for the past 10 years I can tell you that it takes a tremendous amount of preparation and attention to detail to be able to reach a diverse audience with such a range of skill levels and have all attendees benefit from the experience. Nice work Michael!
One attendee commented that it would be advantageous to get familiar with V-Carve or Aspire prior to attending Level 1 training. I could not agree more. Any basic foundational skills you can acquire prior to coming will definitely help maximize what you will get out of the workshop. I would highly recommend this course to users an almost any level. Whether you own an Axiom, a competitors machine or even if you are thinking about investing in a machine for the first time I recommend attending one of the Axiom training workshops. It will be time and money well spent.
Steve Stevenson
Co-founder of Iconic CNC and new member of the Axiom family
(Posted on 11/29/2019) - Outstanding value for the money Review by Wood_fly
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I took both the level 1 and 2 courses. There are a few people who are REALLY good at what they do...and among those, a small sliver can teach. Mr. Mezalick has that rare combination of technical expertise/experience, communication skills and complete mastery of his training materials (which he updates constantly with improved tips and techniques as both he and the program evolve). The level one course is good for anyone unfamiliar with Vcarve or Aspire. While I have used the program for a decade, there were several buttons I hadn't touched because I didn't know I needed them. The level two course is for those with a working knowledge of CNC and the software. While Michael comes prepared to fill the day, he recognizes the purpose of the class: the make the student smarter in approaching his/her challenges in CNC. His famous "there are three solutions to any problem" challenges the students to consider alternatives which inevitably lead to smarter woodworking. The students then have access to one of the most creative minds to use the Vectric software to solve individual problems. EVERY day I found myself saying "well that tidbit alone was worth the price of admission." Conducting the class in their new facility also provides a great opportunity to interact with Austin, Chad and Todd about what their machines can - and can't - do. It is IMPORTANT for level 2 that each student provide background on their experience level so Michael can emphasize specific disciplines, although he did a very good job of keeping everyone engaged. This class was an outstanding value for the money and I look forward to taking it again. (Posted on 8/24/2019)Rating - Great class I learned a lot Review by LesaD
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This was a great class i learned alot from Michael he is very knowledgeable I am glad I made the trip. (Posted on 7/25/2019)Rating - Could Not Be More Pleased Review by Tom
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Just completed the Level 1 class last week. This class had the perfect balance between lecture, the use of project examples and machine demonstration. This class was an "all hands" effort, beginning with the owner being personally engaged. Every member of the Axiom team went out of their way to make students feel welcome,, answer EVERY question and provide solid advice.Rating
Michael, the Vetric instructor is both a solid instructor who teaches in clear and understandable terms. He is both a technician and an artisan and he blends both of these amazing talents to deliver a solid introduction to the vetric software. For me, the vetric training was the first step toward deciding if I will pursue a cnc for my hobby wood shop. I cam away feeling confident that I can manage the software side of the equation and all of the great advice I received from the Axiom staff has helped a great deal toward deciding which cnc machine I will aquire. You will leave this class with a wealth of information and it is worth every penny.
Thank You Todd and the entire Axiom team for providing a great learning experience......I highly recommend this training to others.
Tom (Posted on 5/20/2019) - Great Training - Well Worth It Review by Dave L
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An absolutely great class ! Mike knows his stuff. But more importantly, he knows how to present the material in a logical, coherent manner. I learned more about V-Carve in 2-days than I have in several months of trying to stumble through on my own. Can't wait for the next advanced class.Rating
But beyond the class itself, the great folks at Axiom could not have been nicer or more welcoming. They provided snacks and drinks in the morning, and provided lunch each day. They were eager to display their line of CNC machines, and explain the ins-n-outs of their operation. It was clear this was a first class operation.
As for the Axiom CNC machines, all I can say is . . . I'm placing my order just as soon as I find a buyer for my X-Carve 750 1 (Posted on 5/18/2019) - Excellent Review by Johnny Bates "Rusty"
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I'm a nubie and this course was awesome. The setting was excellent and the staff at Axiom were the friendliest people I've ever met. This is truly a family atmosphere and well worth the price of admission. I learned more than I could retain and look forward to going back in April for part 2. Mezalick is a great instructor and artist. He took time to answer all of our questions and seemed truly interested in our success. Highly recommended. (Posted on 1/20/2019)Rating - HARVARD, YALE, AND PRINCETON OF VECTRIC TRAINING Review by RONM
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This is the Harvard, Yale, and Princeton of Vectric Training. If you want to flatten the proverbial learning curve then this is the path to follow. Michael Mezalick is one of the best. The best way to pay for your machine is to use it and without the knowledge(programinng)it is just a piece of steel, motors, and aluminum. I have had both level 1 & 2 and know that I would not be where I am without the benefit of these courses. Also unlike Harvard etc, the cost is ridiculous in the context of cost/benefit, you almost feel guilty that you only had to pay $300. If you are seriously considering one of these type machines, attendance at these training seminars should be part and parcel of your budget. (Posted on 2/2/2018)Rating - Great opportunity, Limited Time Review by Chris K
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To start I would say this course is worth it, regardless of your level of expertise. The challenge with the course is that the Vcarve & Aspire programs offer an incredible amount of possibilities. Most people will only ever use 20-30% of the available functionality, however not everyone is using the same 20-30%. It is conceiveable that at any given time during the course a percentage of the attendees will be hearing things that have no application for them. As this curriculum evolves I can see it getting more specialized and focused on specific areas so that prospective attendees can have an opportunity to dive deeper into specific topics, and work through a number of examples. Having said all that, Mike Mezalic brings a wealth of knowledge to the class and is a tremendous resource. Additionally, having a chance to meet and work with the Axiom team - Todd, Chad, Austin & Nick - was a great benefit. Each of them spent as much time as needed to demonstrate the equipment, offer tips & tricks and answer a myriad of questions. In order to get the most out of this course, I think the ideal attendee should have some CNC time under their belt (preferably with an Axiom unit and Vcarve/Aspire) in order to show up with some specific application questions. (Posted on 8/28/2017)Rating
