Computer Numeric Control (CNC)

Students receive instruction on how to read machine shop blueprints; properly use measuring instruments; operate a variety of CNC machines including machines offsets; proper use of tooling; and programming of CNC machines to produce precision machined parts. Completion of the Machine Tool Technology program or five years of work experience in a machine tool shop, plus passing the TTC machine shop final exam are required. Classes are held on the main campus.

Employment Stats

  • Program Length (Certificate)

About Program

Computer Numeric Controlled (CNC) machines are widely used in the machining industry. This one-semester program is designed for in-depth study of CNC machines. Students will learn how to set-up and run a CNC lathe, machining centers and grinders. In addition, students will receive training on a Computer Aided Design (CAD) system.

Note:  To enroll in the CNC program, prospective students must have completed Machine Tool program or have five-years of verifiable work experience in a Machine Shop and pass a competency test.  Students will need to contact the instructors to schedule an interview for acceptance into the class. 

Job Expectations

CNC Machinist opportunities are available in several job settings such as a machinist in manufacturing plant, in a job-shop or in a maintenance machining position.

Expected Earnings

A machinist with little to no experience will make $15-$18 per hour.  After three years, the hourly wage increases to $18-$20 and, when one reaches the journeyman’s level, the rate could be $22 or higher.

Course Schedule

Students may enroll during the fall, spring or summer term provided space is available.  Students who are eligible to enroll will be given an opportunity to register for one of the open seats during the enrollment period for each term.

  • Full-time classes
  • Day and Evening classes
  • Enrollment is limited to three students or less in each class
Full-Time Program Schedule for (semester) (Hours)
Semester Day Class Evening Class Days
Fall (450 hours) 7:45am – 2:30pm 4:00pm – 10:45pm Monday - Friday
Spring (450 hours) 7:45am – 2:30pm 4:00pm – 10:45pm Monday - Friday
Summer (390 hours) 7:45am – 2:45pm 4:00pm – 11:00pm Monday - Friday

Tools

NOTE: Tools must be professional grade. (Examples: Snap-on, Mac, Matco, or equivalent)
Quantity Description
1 Safety Glasses
1 Toolbox
1 0-1 inch micrometer
1 6 inch steel rule (scale)
1 10 inch adjustable wrench
1 Center punch (automatic)
1 Set of Allen wrenches (metric and standard)
1 Ball peen hammer (8 or 10 oz.)
1 6 inch dial caliper
1 Scribe
1 Set of screw drivers
1 Scientific calculator (required)
1 16 ft. tape
1 Machinist comb. Square 12 inch (4 pcs. Set)
1 File brush or File card
1 SHOP TOWEL

Cost

1 semester – 450 clock hours -*Tuition will increase every fall semester
 450 hours $1,383

*Must have previous Machine Tool Experience

Tools (estimate) $225.00
Books (estimate) $100.00

TCAT Special Fees

Charged in Addition to Maintenance and Tuition

  • Credit by Examination Fee - The regular course fee is charged for each special examination and must be paid prior to taking the examination. Non-refundable. (See Academic Regulations.)
  • Credit for Life Experience Fees - Assessment Fee for Experiential Learning $45.00.  Experiential Learning Credit $15.00 per credit hour in excess of 3.0 credit hours. $90.00 maximum.
  • High School Equivalency Test (Hi-SET) - $75
  • Placement Test Fees - ACT - $45.00. (Refer to Admissions Policy.)

Books

CNC Machining—Fundamentals and Applications, Richard A. Gizelbach  - ISBN 978-1-59070-790-6

Curriculum

  • Orientation
  • Safety
  • Maintenance & Repair
  • Technology Foundations
  • Blueprint Reading
  • Tool & Die Design
  • Cad/Cam
  • Basic programming
  • Setting offsets
  • Writing programs and proofing program
  • Running programs
  • Editing programs

Career Opportunities

Set-up Person
CNC Machining
Operator of CNC Machines
Programmer/Operator of CNC Machines
Tool & Die Maker