CNC Technologies Diploma

Career Description

The machine shop technologist does precise creation and modification of metal parts. In this program, students learn how to use machines to make various parts for the repair, design, or manufacturing of other products. Most jobs are in manufacturing settings and in a variety of industries, including aerospace, medical, and powersports. Math, computer, and engineering skills are important in this field, but machinists also use a creative side to solve problems and make new designs. Machinists work with their hands to create and fix tools and machines and work on parts that are cast, formed, shaped, or molded. They also work on parts that are heat-treated or cut. In addition, students can work on parts that are pressed, fused, stamped, or worked. A CLC graduate is well prepared for related career opportunities including machinists, tool and die makers, mold makers, maintenance machinists, machine setup lead, machine operator, quality control analyst, machine tool sales person, industrial repairer, plastics injection, and many other related positions.

Program Information

In the Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) Technologies Diploma you will learn how to use hand tools, power machinery, and computerized equipment. In addition, you will learn how to use lathes, mills and grinders. Our 2-year diploma curriculum includes the use of computer-aided drafting (CAD) and design software. Programming of CNC machines is accomplished with the use of computer-aided machining (CAM) software. Instruction takes place in a well-equipped shop to provide a hands-on, practical experience.

Program Outcomes

Graduates will be able to:

• Read and interpret a mechanical working drawing;
• Perform precision measurement, layout, drilling, sawing, turning, milling, and precision grinding safely;
• Perform shop calculations;
• Program, setup, and operate a computer numerical control (CNC) turning and machining center;
• Anticipate, choose, and troubleshoot the proper tooling based on manufacturing requirements;
• Manufacture assemblies to specification to produce a plastic injection mold;
• Manufacture assemblies to specification to produce a working metal stamping die; and
• Apply effective communication and interpersonal skills in the machining industry.

Special Program Requirements

In addition to the program requirements, students must meet the following conditions in order to graduate:

• College Cumulative GPA Requirement: cumulative grade point average (GPA) of credits attempted and completed at CLC must be at least 2.0;
• College Technical Core GPA Requirement: cumulative GPA of credits attempted and completed towards the technical core of the diploma or degree must be at least 2.0;
• Residency Requirement: students must complete 25% of their credits at Central Lakes College.

Career Opportunities

The CLC Machine Tool Technologies program includes advanced courses in CNC and Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM). A CLC graduate is well prepared for related career opportunities. These opportunities include machinists, tool and die makers, mold makers, maintenance machinists, machine setup lead, machine operator, quality control analyst, machine tool sales person, industrial repairer, plastics injection, and many other related positions.

Career Titles

Employment opportunities include computer numerical control (CNC) machine operator, CNC programmer, numerical control drill press technician, lathe technician, automated cutting machine technician, machinist tool and die maker, precision instrument maker, and tool maker.

Employment Statistics

For more information regarding employment statistics, career salary information and estimated job growth, follow the resource links below:

https://apps.deed.state.mn.us/lmi/ces/
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/home.htm
Salary information from indeed.com