Introduction to CNC Operator/Programmer
For those pursuing a career in CNC machining, understanding certification requirements is a crucial step toward building a successful future in manufacturing. Earning industry-recognized certifications can set students apart in a competitive workforce. Certifications validate a machinist’s expertise in areas like blueprint reading, CNC machine operation, and equipment maintenance.
EC3 is playing a leading role in workforce development by offering a CNC Operator/Programmer certificate, designed to prepare students for these valuable certifications. This program typically takes less than two years to complete, allowing students to quickly gain the technical skills and hands-on experience needed to enter the workforce. Through a combination of classroom instruction and practical training, students learn to interpret blueprints, operate lathes and other CNC equipment, and maintain high standards of safety and precision. With the right education, training, and support, aspiring CNC machinists in Erie can find rewarding careers and contribute to the region’s growing manufacturing workforce.
This program is intended to lead to entry-level employment in the manufacturing industry. Students who wish to continue their education may apply credits from this program toward the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Industrial Technology, providing a clear pathway for further skill development and career advancement.
Program Outcomes
- Describe and demonstrate shop safety practices.
- Demonstrate proficiency with various tools and machines.
- Identify and describe the purpose and function of precision measurement systems.
- Identify and describe basic functions of precision measurement tools.
- Describe the importance of precision in manufacturing.
- Perform complex machine tool making activities commonly used in manufacturing.
- Perform basic Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programming, set up and operations of CNC, conventional machine tools, precision tools, and general tools.
- Demonstrate knowledge of print reading.
- Use mathematical knowledge to solve machining problems.
- Develop, document, and implement a project plan for machining parts.
- Work with different materials such as metals and plastics.
- Learn to run CNC machines by executing pre-written programs.
Career Outlook
Upon completion of the program, students earn a certificate that demonstrates their readiness for CNC operator roles and provides graduates the opportunity to advance in the manufacturing industry.
Graduates are prepared for positions such as:
- Machinist
- CNC Machine Tool Operator
- CNC Programmer
- Machine Tool Setters/Tenders
CNC Operator & Programmer - Academic Certificate
Program Description
This program prepares students for high-demand careers as a Computer Numeric Controlled (CNC) Operator or Programmer. Students will obtain skills in operating manual mills and lathes, CNC mills and lathes, machine safety, math, metrology, part inspection, machine set-up and programming, utilizing precision measurement tools and systems, CAD/CAM systems, and blueprints.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate understanding of the machine tool industry and career opportunities within it.
- Demonstrate shop safety practices.
- Describe the purpose and function of precision measurement tools and systems.
- Perform basic set up and operation of conventional machine tools.
- Utilize a blueprint to measure and inspect a part for quality and accuracy.
- Evaluate processes and equipment to solve complex machining problems.
- Use mathematical knowledge to derive speeds, feeds, and feature locations.
- Perform basic Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programming set up and operation of CNC mills and lathes.
- Program a CNC mill or lathe using a blueprint.
- Demonstrate proficiency in the use of Mastercam.
- Demonstrate proficiency in the use of Autocad.
| Required Courses | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CNC 114 | Introduction to CNC Print Reading | 3 |
| MAT 107 | Technical Math | 3 |
| CNC 102 | CNC Operator I | 3 |
| CNC 104 | CNC Operator II | 3 |
| CNC 200 | CNC Programming I | 3 |
| CNC 201 | Mastercam I | 3 |
| CNC 202 | CNC Programming II | 3 |
| CNC 203 | Mastercam II | 3 |
Total for Certificate: 24
CNC Operator & CNC Programmer Micro Credentials
The CNC Operator and CNC Programmer Certificates of Completion are individualized, short-term programs designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the advanced manufacturing workforce or to help current workers enhance their skills. Ideal for those seeking a fast-track career path or looking to upskill, these certificate programs can typically be completed in one semester or less. Each program focuses on hands-on training and industry-relevant knowledge, equipping students with the technical competencies needed to operate or program computer numerical control (CNC) machinery in a variety of manufacturing settings.
