Computer Numerical Control (CNC)
Overview
Are you technically inclined and interested in working with your hands? Do you want to further your career or start a new one in the manufacturing industry? The Computer Numerical Control (CNC) training program may be right for you.
In this on-campus program, you’ll gain all the skills you need to work as a CNC operator at one of the many facilities that rely on CNC Mill and Lathe work for production. Earn your certificate in as little as six months, then get right to work.
What does a CNC operator do?
When manufacturing is automated, machine shop tools such as lathes and mills need to be programmed to create parts to the right specifications. That’s where CNC operators and programmers come in.
Anything from a part for a kitchen appliance to the engine block for your car was created by a machinist or a CNC operator. CNC machines are used to manufacture components for multiple industries, including:
- Medical
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Defense
- Oil and gas
- Electronics
As a certified CNC operator, you can work for fabrication companies or in a manufacturing plant. Among other potential job duties, CNC operators need to be able to:
- Read blueprints and enter instructions to program machinery
- Observe and make necessary adjustments to maintain quality
- Maintain equipment
- Follow safety regulations
About the Program
What will my courses be like?
In MTC’s CNC training program, you’ll learn the basics of CNC programming and gain hands-on experience with CNC machines under the supervision of our experienced faculty.
CNC courses cover all the skills you will need to start work in a manufacturing facility. Topics include:
- Blueprint reading and precision measuring tools
- Basic working knowledge of vertical mills and machining lathes
- Functionality of CNC machine components
- CNC programming
What happens after I complete the program?
Once you successfully complete your coursework, you’ll be qualified for entry-level work as a CNC operator or programmer.
CNC operators are enjoying a strong job market with full-time and part-time employment opportunities. Since high-volume manufacturers typically run their machining centers 24/7, varied working hours are available. Salaries range from $15-$22 per hour.
You can also choose to further your education with an Associate’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology or Mechatronics.
Special Note: Successful completion of some classes in this training program may provide you with exemption credit and/or advanced placement into the Machine Tool Associates Degree in Applied Science at Midlands Technical College. For further information, please contact 803.732.0432 if you are interested.
Why choose MTC?
At MTC, CNC machining students get hands-on, real-world experience that prepares them to enter the workforce. Like the rest of our QuickJobs programs, the CNC certificate was developed to provide intensive and complete job training for a career that will be in high demand over the next decade.
Flexible class schedules enable CNC students to fit coursework around jobs and other obligations.
Simply put, the CNC Training Certificate will give you the tools you need to jumpstart your career at an affordable cost. In addition, tuition assistance, including scholarships and loans, may be available for this program.
Program Type
Training CertificateHow to Enroll
To pursue this certificate, please click on the courses below to see availability. You can register for courses online, and you do not have to apply to the college!
Talk to us
Tuition Assistance
Training Resources
Questions?
Call 803.732.0432 to talk to us about this program, or email cce@midlandstech.edu
This program is currently eligible for a QuickJobs Scholarship.
Please visit the MTC QuickJobs page to sign up for a free mandatory information session where you will learn how to apply for a scholarship. To be eligible, you must:
- Attend an information session. Information sessions last approximately two hours and are free to attend.
- Be a South Carolina resident for 12 consecutive months. Applicants will be required to submit documentation for proof of residency (Driver's license, Beginner's permit, or state issued ID).
- Not be in default on any federal student loans and not owe MTC or any other college monies.
- Submit an application. You will need to enter your student ID on the application.
- Scholarship recipients will be in communication with the Program Director responsible for the program for which they applied.
- Some programs require clean SLED background checks and clean drug/alcohol tests.
If you have additional questions, please call 803-732-0432.
Sample Program Plan and Costs
Class Delivery Methods
View current courses offered via our online course directory.
| On-Campus | Traditional. Classes meet on campus. |
|---|---|
| Virtual | 100% online. Meets with a live instructor and classmates on specific days, at specific times. Uses web conferencing software, like Zoom. |
| Hybrid | Some classes on campus. Some classes online or virtual. |
| Online | 100% online. Due dates for projects and assignments. Self-paced work on your time. |
| CEUs | Class Hours | Course Title | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.40 | 24 |
Blueprint Reading and Basic Measuring Tools An introductory course in blueprint reading and precision measuring tools. This course will take you through the alphabet of lines, views, and general rules for reading engineering blueprints. This course will also provide hands-on training in the use of micrometers, calipers, height gages, indicators, and various transfer gages. Classroom ID: CEMFG-588 We frequently add new sections. Please contact our Corporate and Continuing Education (CCE) department at 803.732.0432 or cce@midlandstech.edu for more information.
|
$599.00 |
| 3.00 | 30 |
Introduction to Mills Learn the set-up and basic working knowledge of vertical mills. Learn proper safety, care, set-up, and operation of manual machine shop mills. An excellent course for students with little machining background or students taking the CNC Operator/Programmer Certificate program. Prerequisite: Blueprint Reading & Measuring Tools course. Classroom ID: CEMFG-627 We frequently add new sections. Please contact our Corporate and Continuing Education (CCE) department at 803.732.0432 or cce@midlandstech.edu for more information.
|
$599.00 |
| 3.00 | 30 |
Introduction to Lathes Learn the set-up and basic working knowledge of machining lathes. Learn proper safety, care, set-up, and operation of manual turning lathe. An excellent course for students with little machining background or students taking the CNC Operator/Programmer Certificate program. Prerequisite: Blueprint Reading & Basic Measuring Tools course. Classroom ID: CEMFG-626 We frequently add new sections. Please contact our Corporate and Continuing Education (CCE) department at 803.732.0432 or cce@midlandstech.edu for more information.
|
$599.00 |
| 5.40 | 54 |
Fundamentals of CNC Operator/ Programmer Training Gain the knowledge to become a CNC operator/programmer. Topics covered: shop math, right angle trig., English/Metric conversion tooling for mills and lathes, CNC offsets, cutting speed and fee calculations, inter-working, and functionality of the actual CNC machine components. Prerequisite: Blueprint Reading, Mills and Lathe classes.
ID: CEMFG-572 We frequently add new sections. Please contact our Corporate and Continuing Education (CCE) department at 803.732.0432 or cce@midlandstech.edu for more information.
|
$899.00 |
| 6.00 | 60 |
Principles of CNC Programming Transform blueprints into CNC machine programs by designing your own generated CNC programs on computer based simulators in the classroom. Topics covered include: machine language (G & M codes), work coordinates, various types of offsets, cutter compensation, canned cycles, etc. Prerequisite: Fundamentals of CNC Operator/Programmer. Classroom ID: CEMFG-571 We frequently add new sections. Please contact our Corporate and Continuing Education (CCE) department at 803.732.0432 or cce@midlandstech.edu for more information.
|
$999.00 |
| 4.80 | 48 |
Mastering CNC Programming An application-based course covering the knowledge and skills acquired from the Fundamentals and Principles classes. You will utilize your new knowledge to write CNC programs, select tooling, and set up the CNC equipment to produce parts to specifications from your own CNC program. Prerequisite: Principles of CNC Operator/Programming Classroom ID: CEMFG-580 We frequently add new sections. Please contact our Corporate and Continuing Education (CCE) department at 803.732.0432 or cce@midlandstech.edu for more information.
|
$849.00 |
|
Estimated Cost
Tuition Assistance
$4,544.00
Not including fees and equipment |
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What’s next after I complete this program?
Further Your Education
Earn an Associate’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology. The Mechanical Engineering Technology program provides students with the opportunity to enter the engineering technology field as a Mechanical Technician or Computer-Aided Design and Drafting (CAD) technician.
Consider an Associate’s degree in Mechatronics Technology where students will learn how to design systems for the automation of industrial tasks. Mechatronics technicians apply their knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and computer systems to solve technical problems and maintain automated equipment.