A Machinist is a skilled tradesperson with the skills and knowledge to create tools, parts, and objects by operating milling and drilling machines, grinders, and lathes in the machine shop. Machinists work in a wide variety of workplaces and are employed across a variety of industries including energy, transportation, advanced manufacturing and National Defense. Graduates of this program will be prepared to enter the workforce as entry-level Manual and CNC machine tool operators. Students will have the opportunity to earn 10 National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS) credentials over both manual and CNC classes.

* Manual Machining experience or prior training is required to enroll in any CNC courses.

Upon Successful Completion

• Students will have the opportunity to earn the following (NIMS) certifications
  • Measurement, Materials and Safety
  • Job Planning, Benchwork, and Layout
  • Drill Press I
  • Milling I
  • Turning I – Between Centers and Chucking
  • CNC Mill programming setup and operations
  • CNC Mill Operations
  • CNC Lathe programming setup and operations
  • CNC Lathe Operations

Courses and Program Costs

Time to Complete Program

Manual Machining – 6 Months – 2 evenings per week

CNC Machining – 9 Months – 2 evenings per week

Entry Requirements

• Preparation for Machining is a required prerequisite for all Machining classes unless the student is able to demonstrate prior learning through NIMS testing.
• Manual Machining experience or prior training is required to enroll in any CNC courses.
• A $25.00 non-refundable registration fee is required from all students.
• Students are required to have a High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Students are required to take the TABE Assessment prior to enrollment.
• Students must participate in an Orientation and Information Session.
• Students must maintain a 75% average in each class and meet attendance requirements to progress to the next course.

Location of Training

CNC Machining Classes

Career Technology and Training Center

116 Industrial Park, Accident, MD 21520

Manual Machining Classes

Southern Garrett High School

345 Oakland Drive, Oakland, MD 21550

Certifying Professional Association/Agency

National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS)

Upon Successful Completion

• Students will be able to demonstrate core competencies as outlined by NIMS.
• Students will also have the opportunity to earn NIMS Credentials in each class.

Occupational Outlook

There are about 35,400 openings for machinists and tool and die makers projected each year, on average.

A.A.S. Degree in Professional & Technical Studies: Machining track

Students also have the option of earning a credit A.A.S. degree in Professional & Technical Studies: Machining track. Learn more here.