About the CareerASSOCIATE
DEGREE IN MACHINE TOOL TECHNOLOGY
DIPLOMA IN MACHINE TOOL
CERTIFICATE IN BENCH WORK/LATHE OPERATIONS
CERTIFICATE IN CNC SET-UP AND OPERATIONS
CERTIFICATE IN MAINTENANCE MACHINIST I
CERTIFICATE IN MAINTENANCE MACHINIST II
CERTIFICATE IN MILL AND GRINDER
CERTIFICATE IN PLASTIC OPERATIONS AND MOLDMAKING
CERTIFICATE IN TOOL ROOM MACHINING
About the CareerEver thought about turning that mechanical talent into a career? Today’s advanced manufacturing businesses are looking for people with a special talent when it comes to tools, machines and the mechanical process. It takes skill and expertise to operate some of the most advanced equipment in the industry; the key to developing these skills is technical training with an emphasis on hands-on machine-tool experience.
Manufacturing machining technicians have knowledge of the working properties of metals as well as skill with machine tools. They plan and carry out the operations needed to make machined products that meet precise specifications. Technological advances in computerization and automation have drastically changed personnel needs in the manufacturing sector. Continuous training, retraining and upgrading is critical to remain current with the technology and changing manufacturing concepts.
With the development of advanced technical systems emerges a variety of specialized career paths, from Computer Numerical Control (CNC) operators to highly skilled tool and die makers. A typical day might include setting up lathes, grinders and computer-controlled machines. Using micrometers, dial indicators, optical comparators and other gauges, technicians are responsible for precision measurements of the parts made on those machines. With additional training and experience, machinists can move into supervisory, training, quality control or tool designer positions.
About the ProgramMidlands Technical College is known throughout the region for its machine tool program and has an excellent placement record for its graduates. At Midlands Technical College, students learn the latest skills in the rapidly advancing manufacturing industry and get hands-on, real-world experience – the type of training it takes to move into the workforce.
The program combines classroom and shop instruction where students learn to fabricate various materials into intricate, precise, usable parts. They will also learn to work from blueprints and written specifications and to select the proper machinery, materials and tools to accomplish the task.
There are plenty of training options available. A student can take the three-semester diploma program for the basic skills needed to enter the manufacturing industry. Later a student can add two more semesters to earn the full associate in Machine Tool Technology, thus increasing skills and earning potential. Or students can simply enroll in a first-level certificate program and advance in their degree when they are ready.
The first two semesters, common to all students, provide instruction in the use of precision layout tools, layout techniques, and the setup and operation of mills, lathes, grinders and other important conventional machines found in a machine shop. The remaining terms include instruction in CNC programming, setup and operations; plastic injection molding; die making and repair; and jig and fixture design.
