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Machine Tool Technology/Machinist

Program Description

Just the Facts

Machine Tool Technology/Machinist. A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to plan, manufacture, assemble, test, and repair parts, mechanisms, machines, and structures in which materials are cast, formed, shaped, molded, heat treated, cut, twisted, pressed, fused, stamped or worked.

This program is available in these options:

  • Certificate / Diploma
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree

High School Courses

See the high school courses recommended for programs in this career cluster:

See the high school courses recommended for programs in this pathway:



Related Programs

Often similar programs have different names. Be sure to explore all your options.

Additional Information

If you are the kind of person who loves to take things apart to see how they work, or if you have a knack for fixing broken motors or other machines, consider training as a machinist.

You'll need to complete an apprenticeship, which combines on-the-job training with classroom study. You earn wages while you train, but will have to pass a test at the end of your apprenticeship to be promoted to journeyperson status and become a certified machinist.

A typical day as an apprentice machinist could include classes in blueprint reading, mathematics, metallurgy, numerical control theory and mechanical drawing. When you're in the machine shop, you'll be applying what you've learned in the classroom about designing and cutting tool parts.

Alan Reid, head of metal-cutting programs at a community college, says apprentice machinists must have at least a high school diploma. He says they look for applicants "who are willing to work hard, like to work with their hands and are problem-solvers."

Russell Cook is coordinator of the computer numerical control (CNC) and quality assurance program at Stark State College of Technology in Ohio. He says the most successful candidates have natural spatial and abstract conceptual abilities, and are mechanically minded and adaptable.

"Since machining is not an exact science, machinists must have problem-solving ability," he says.

Being able to work with computers is key. "Almost all manufacturing involves computers to one degree or another," says Cook. "And computers will only continue to become more integrated in all aspects of manufacturing."

In high school, take geometry, trigonometry and algebra, says Cook. "Physics is also helpful in understanding how machines work," he adds.

"If available, any CAD [computer-aided design] or CAM [computer-aided manufacturing] classes should be taken."

Apprentices must pay for textbooks, workbooks and a basic tool kit containing measuring instruments and hand tools. If you are sponsored by an employer, that employer may cover your costs.

Many technical schools are adopting a curriculum based on skills standards developed by the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS). Apprentices in NIMS-based programs who pass a written and performance exam are granted a NIMS credential, which is a nationally recognized standard of competency.


Links

Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see Machinists

Machining Resources
Resources for machining, machining tutorials, metals and metalworking

Production Machining
Source for news, employment, classified and trade talk

Contact

  • Email Support

  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900

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