As a committed partner of the Orange County Regional Consortium (OCRC) and community colleges across the region, Ricaurte Precision, Inc. (RPI) is at the forefront of rebuilding the local manufacturing talent pipeline. By aligning its workforce needs with regional education and training programs, RPI is not only driving its own growth but also helping sustain Orange County’s advanced manufacturing ecosystem.
In the heart of Orange County’s growing advanced manufacturing sector, Ricaurte Precision, Inc. (RPI) stands out as a trusted leader in precision machining.
As a contract manufacturer, RPI. serves mission-critical industries like aerospace, defense, and medical technology, specializing in turning complex designs into precision-engineered products for major industry Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) like Northrop Grumman.
RPI provides the specialized machinery, technical expertise, and skilled personnel needed to produce intricate, high-quality components with its team of programmers, engineers, and quality inspectors.
Driving Innovation Through Technology and People
The company is experiencing an annual growth rate of 20 percent by investing in both its technology and its people. It prioritizes training, continuous improvement, and supporting employees in adopting new, data-driven tools that enhance quality and efficiency.
“We can have the best equipment in the world, but it’s people who make the decisions, utilize the technology, and drive innovation,” says Hernan Ricaurte, President of RPI. “Our goal is to equip them with the knowledge and confidence to do that effectively.”
With contracts often involving Department of Defense requirements, RPI also maintains rigorous cybersecurity protocols and numerous industry certifications. This high level of operational discipline bolsters the company’s reputation for precision and reliability, qualities that make it a trusted manufacturing partner across multiple industries.
Partnering to Rebuild the Manufacturing Talent Pipeline
Ricaurte Precision, Inc. is deeply invested in strengthening the local talent pipeline, recognizing that one of the greatest challenges in modern manufacturing is workforce development.
As many long-standing companies are either closing or consolidating due to minimal or no succession planning, there is a growing need to attract and train the next generation of skilled workers. Additionally, decades of outsourcing have resulted in reduced exposure to manufacturing in U.S. schools, limiting awareness of the rewarding, high-tech careers available within the field.
Through its partnership with the Orange County Regional Consortium (OCRC), RPI is helping bridge the gap between education and industry, creating meaningful connections between classroom and careers. Together, they’re helping students gain hands-on learning experiences, industry exposure, and clear pathways that lead directly to good jobs.
This collaboration has led to student tours, job fairs, and on-site networking opportunities that give students a real-world view of advanced manufacturing. These interactions help them explore potential career paths while giving employers access to promising, well-prepared candidates.
Why Community College Graduates Stand Out
RPI has been notably impressed by the practical skills of community college graduates, finding that they often bring exactly the kind of skills and mindset the industry needs.
“They’re hands-on, humble, and willing to learn. They come in with strong communication skills and a readiness to embrace new technologies. In many cases, their practical education gives them an edge over four-year graduates,” says Ricaurte.
Looking Ahead
As Orange County’s economy continues to evolve, RPI sees its partnership with the OCRC as a key part of future workforce development. The company plans to expand its collaborative efforts with educators, especially in areas like supply chain and purchasing, to ensure that local training programs continue to match industry needs.
“Our mission is to advance technology, grow our people, and strengthen the community,” says Ricaurte. “Working together with OCRC and our local colleges helps us accomplish all three.”
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