Overview and Award Outcomes
Overview
CNC Technicians are machinists with additional skills in programming, setup and operating computer driven machine tools. Most high-tech products including computers, aircraft and medical devices use precision components made on CNC machine tools. The CNC Technician relies on a strong background of machining skills. This includes the understanding of machines, tooling, blueprints, and additional methods used to produce and inspect a part. After determining the best manufacturing strategies and selecting tools, a CNC program is developed. CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing) software is many times used to assist in developing the CNC program.
Award Outcomes
Apply precision measurement techniques.
Demonstrate sawing procedures.
Demonstrate drilling procedures.
Demonstrate grinding procedures.
Demonstrate milling procedures.
Demonstrate turning procedures.
Interpret blueprints/drawings.
Apply heat treating principles.
Machine parts with tolerance.
Apply math skills necessary for industry requirements.
Operate equipment safely.
Inspect machined parts for tolerance requirements.
Operate CNC machines efficiently.
Demonstrate teamwork.
Develop part designs within a group.
Career Opportunities
The successful CNC Technician may start his/her career as a CNC operator and progress to CNC setup, programmer, or inspector. Well paying jobs are available in the medical, aerospace, computer and recreational fields.