CNC MACHINIST
As a computer numerical control technician/programmer operator, you play an important role in today’s modern manufacturing environments. You set-up and operate computer numerical controlled machine tools, working from blueprints and set-up sheets. You set-up fixturing and tooling, produce and inspect parts, and edit CNC programs on CNC lathes and machining centers. There are many opportunities for skilled CNC machinists in northeast Wisconsin.
With additional education and/or work experience, you can grow in your position. Below is more information about the CNC machinist career, in addition to education pathways.
PERSONALITY
CNC machinists are interested in activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They do well at jobs that need:
*Attention to Detail
*Dependability
*Independence
*Analytical Thinking
*Problem Solving
*Innovation
*Cooperation
TECHNOLOGY
Blueprint Reading
Software may be used such as:
*Computer Aided Manufacturing CAM Software *Computer Aided Design CAD Software
*3D CAD Software
*Enterprise Resource Planning ERP Software
MATH
*Math Operations (Decimals, Whole Numbers, Percentages, Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtraction)
*Trigonometry & Geometry
DUTIES
*Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments such as micrometers or vernier calipers.
*Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
*Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
CNC MACHINIST CAREER PATHWAYS
Certificate – (C) Technical Diploma – (TD) Associate Degree – (AD)
FOX VALLEY TECHNICAL COLLEGE (FVTC)
Machine Tool Technician (TD)
Machinist Apprentice – This program requires you to first be employed and includes four years of on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
LAKESHORE TECHNICAL COLLEGE (LTC)
Introduction to Machine Tool Certificate (C) – With an additional 18 credits, you can receive the Machine Tool Operation TD.
Machine Tool Operation (TD) – With only 26 more credits, you can receive the CNC Technician Technical Diploma.
CNC Technician (TD)
MORAINE PARK TECHNICAL COLLEGE (MPTC)
CNC Set-Up/Operator Certificate (C) – This certificate is designed for individuals with little to no manufacturing background and provides hands-on CNC machine training. All courses are transferable into the two-year CNC/Tool and Die Technologies Technical Diploma program.
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Certificate – Courses are transferable to MPTC’s Quality and Advanced Manufacturing Technology Associate of Applied Science degree.
CNC/Tool and Die Technologies (TD – 2 Year) – Upon completion of the program, students will have completed all of their related training for the State of Wisconsin Tool and Die Technologies apprenticeship program.
NORTHEAST WISCONSIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE (NWTC)
CNC Helper Certificate (C) – This certificate is primarily intended for high school students through dual credit (see below). Credits transfer to NWTC’s CNC Technician technical diploma.
CNC Technician (TD) – All credits from this program apply toward NWTC’s CNC Machinist technical diploma.
CNC Machinist (TD) – You may also choose to further your career options by continuing with the second-year of NWTC’s CNC Technician program.
Through NWTC’s Career Pathways Bridge Programs, you can improve your English, reading, writing, and/or math skills while you also gain job skills that can lead to a great career with good pay. Classes are held evenings or weekends so you can work while going to college.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
CNC Machinist
NEWMA ALL STAR VIDEOS
CNC Sheet Metal Programmer
Machinist
With additional training and coursework, learners can progress in their career, earning an Associate (AD) and/or Bachelor’s degree.
Manufacturing: Degrees, Diplomas, Certificates
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
Earn college credits during high school through dual credit classes!
Get ready to launch your career! By taking a dual credit class, you earn both high school and college credit for that class. This allows you to jumpstart your college career and save money on your future degree. For more information, check with your high school counselor.
Employability Skills Needed: ability to work in a team environment, can-do attitude, dependability and reliability, motivation, effective verbal communications