CNC Software, Inc., producer of Mastercam CAD/CAM software, announces the 2012 Mastercam Innovator of the Future (IOF) national competition. This competition entices students with a real-world manufacturing challenge, celebrity judge and a chance to win a $1,000 scholarship. The competition provides instructors with a powerful motivational tool to get students excited about learning CAD/CAM and the manufacturing process.

For the 2012 competition, students are challenged to design and machine a guitar bridge. Winners will be selected based on several criteria including accuracy, creativity and cleanliness of the part among other criteria.

A team of experts from world-renowned Taylor Guitars will judge the 2012 IOF competition. Co-founders Bob Taylor and Kurt Lustig know about humble beginnings and the value of innovation and determination. Founded in 1974, Taylor Guitars went through a number of lean years before taking off. Since then, they have taken an acoustic guitar company from a two-man shop to a production-level manufacturer without relinquishing ownership or creative control.

Everyone who enters the competition receives an exclusive Mastercam IOF shirt. The student who creates the winning entry will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship to the school of their choice. In addition, the winner and their Mastercam instructor will receive a trip to El Cajon, CA, to tour the Taylor Guitars facility. Mastercam IOF recognition plaques will go to both the winner and their school. The winner's instructor will also receive a limited edition Mastercam IOF polo shirt.

All entries to the Mastercam 2012 IOF competition are subject to the following requirements:

• The part must be programmed with a licensed copy of Mastercam software.
• The part must have a professional look and remain consistent with the theme industry standards.
• The part must adhere to the specifications.
• Tell us the story behind your part entry; the inspiration for its design, materials used, etc.
• Include photos of you holding the part, your instructor, the school lab and the CNC machine. Electronic files are preferred.
• The entry must consist of one finished, unpainted part.
• All entries become the property of CNC Software, Inc. Parts cannot be returned.
• All designs become the property of CNC Software, Inc.
• All entries and completed entry forms must be received by May 31, 2012.
• While we welcome past winners to submit entries, past winners are not eligible to win the grand prize.

For more information contact:

Michelle Nemeth

CNC Software, Inc.

671 Old Post Road

Tolland, CT 06084

860-875-5006

info@mastercam.com

www.mastercam.com