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University Alert

The university will operate under Condition 1 (Reduced Operations) of the Adverse Weather and Emergency Event Policy on Monday, March 16, effective at 12 p.m. through 11:59 p.m. A strong storm system will bring widespread hazardous weather conditions to the region.

Classes scheduled to start at 12 p.m. or later will be held virtually. Non-essential staff will work remotely.

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CNC Machinist

Stock image of a CNC machinist working

As the manufacturing industry becomes more automated, many machinists are staying ahead of the curve by learning how to use CNC machines. If you want to advance your manufacturing career, this 100% online course will train you to operate cutting-edge CNC machines.

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Job Outlook

  • According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), machinists earn almost $45,750 per year, on average. Experienced CNC machinists make between $50,000 and $80,000 annually.
  • The BLS notes that job demand for machinists will grow 1–2% over the next decade. However, many of these jobs will require knowledge of CNC machines and automation.
  • Deloitte estimates that as many as 2 million advanced manufacturing jobs may go unfilled between now and 2025. 

Frequently Asked Questions

While CNC machining and conventional machining both refer to the process of shaping a raw material into a specific part, the difference between the two processes is that CNC machines are automated, while conventional machines are manual or may require multiple machines to cut a single part.

CNC machinists are expected to:

  • Interpret designs of parts to be machined
  • Use technical calculations and models to program a CNC machine
  • Choose tools or attachments required for a product order
  • Set manufacturing metrics such as tolerance levels or cutting speeds
  • Maintain and upgrade CNC machines to optimize productivity
  • Validate a machine's output based on the technical standards for a project
  • Operate machines under computer numerical control, including lathes, mills, presses, and drills, 3D printers, glass cutters and more

Yes. Technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are now common in the manufacturing industry, so machinists need to keep pace with new changes.

Course Objectives

  • Master the basics of CNC controls and programming
  • Understand metallurgy and machining and grinding processes
  • Learn inspection methods and workholding principles
  • Understand the basics of Six Sigma, 5S, Lean, and TPM

Prerequisites and Requirements

There are no prerequisites to taking this course.

Curriculum

Workholding

Introduction to workholding; supporting and locating principles and devices 107; clamping basics, chucks, collets and vises

Math

Fractions and decimals, units of measurement and basics of tolerance; algebra, geometry, trigonometry and blueprint reading

Inspection

Introduction to GD&T, optical comparators and CMMs; standards for inspecting and calibrating holes, threads and surfaces

Machining and Stamping

Basics of presses, manual mills and engine lathes; introduction to CNC machines, G-Code programming and Haas, Fanuc and Mazak machines

Safety

OSHA, personal protective equipment, SDS and hazard communication; hand and power tool safety, safety for lifting devices and powered industrial truck safety

Materials

Physical and mechanical properties of metal manufacturing; classification of steel, essentials of heat treatment of steel and hardness testing

Metal Cutting

Basic cutting theory and processes; introduction to metal cutting fluids and tool materials

Quality and Manufacturing Management

Lean manufacturing, 5S and continuous process improvement; Six Sigma, conducting Kaizen events and value stream mapping

Grinding

Grinding processes and safety; grinding ferrous and nonferrous metals

Instructors

This is a completely self-paced course. Additional support will be provided through email and phone.

This course is 100% online. Start anytime.