CNC Programming Technician Certificate

Metal work meets programming work

Your mind can run machines. Computerized Numeric Control (CNC) machines perform precise, complex metal work over and over—when programmed by a skilled technician.

Learn to translate blueprints and other job specs into CNC programs. As a CNC programming technician, you will find both jobs and advancement opportunities in manufacturing.

This certificate stacks on top of the CNC operator and setup certificates—or you can start from scratch to earn all three in a year and a half. Take the next step in the high-skilled, high-demand field of metalworking and machining.

The certificate prepares you for process planning, quality control, set-up and operation of manual/CNC machines for current and future needs of industry.

Learn:

manual G&M code programming
computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM)
CNC machine tool programming
precision measuring devices, including a coordinate measuring machines (CMM)

What can you do with a CNC Programming Technician certificate in Precision Machining Technology?

This certificate prepares you for the next level of technical difficulty for your career in precision machining. After your first semester (a.k.a. the Machine Operator certificate), you can begin working in industry, even as you earn your CNC Setup certificate and this certificate in CNC programming.

All three certificates fold into the full Precision Machining Technology associate degree. In addition, certain classes have industry credentials embedded within them. These credentials are very attractive to employers.

If you are already employed as a machinist, this certificate is a great way to improve your skill set to advance to the programming level.

NIMS-accredited

The CNC program is accredited by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) and national credentialing is available.

When you complete certain courses, you will be able to take credentialing exams for a fee. Earn and learn as you go with stackable credentials. These prepare you for a job and advancement in the high-skilled, high-demand field of metalworking and machining.

See what students love about the precision machining technology program at CLC. Picture yourself here:

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Highlights

Accreditation

Accredited by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills.
Stackable Credentials

Earn college credits and learn as you go with stackable credentials.
Apprenticeships for Experience

Learn and earn through structured on-the-job training.
Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities

Explore ways to pay for college (based on need/achievement).
Career Certificate

Gain in-demand technical and job-ready skills by earning a certificate in less than 1 year.
WIOA Program

Become eligible for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)-awarded vouchers.

*Estimated cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours for full-time students for academic year 2025-2026. This includes in-district tuition and comprehensive fees, before financial aid, including grants, loans, and scholarships, is applied. Actual cost may vary to include additional fees, materials, and other cost of attendance factors such as living expenses, transportation, etc. Explore opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about the Cost of Attendance.

Career Outlook

Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $38,267
  
  Median
  
  $49,202
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $66,995
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $18.39
  
  Median
  
  $23.65
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $32.21
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  51.74%
  
  Certificate
  
  21.16%
  
  Some college
  
  16.8%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  7.08%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  3.22%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $52,818
  
  Median
  
  $69,117
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $94,517
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $25.39
  
  Median
  
  $33.23
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $45.43
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  32.77%
  
  Certificate
  
  31.39%
  
  Some college
  
  19.68%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  14.3%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  1.86%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Set up, operate, or tend machines to saw, cut, shear, slit, punch, crimp, notch, bend, or straighten metal or plastic material.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $35,595
  
  Median
  
  $45,997
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $62,009
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $17.11
  
  Median
  
  $22.11
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $29.81
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  64.29%
  
  Certificate
  
  34.85%
  
  Some college
  
  0.86%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Set up, operate, or tend drilling machines to drill, bore, ream, mill, or countersink metal or plastic work pieces.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $33,373
  
  Median
  
  $51,868
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $72,411
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $16.04
  
  Median
  
  $24.93
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $34.81
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  66.64%
  
  Certificate
  
  1.94%
  
  Some college
  
  12.19%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  12.11%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  7.12%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Set up, operate, or tend machines to extrude or draw thermoplastic or metal materials into tubes, rods, hoses, wire, bars, or structural shapes.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $40,664
  
  Median
  
  $53,816
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $74,206
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $19.54
  
  Median
  
  $25.87
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $35.67
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  88.33%
  
  Certificate
  
  11.22%
  
  Doctorate
  
  0.45%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Set up, operate, or tend forging machines to taper, shape, or form metal or plastic parts.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $44,018
  
  Median
  
  $47,927
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $58,219
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $21.15
  
  Median
  
  $23.04
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $27.99
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  100%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Set up, operate, or tend grinding and related tools that remove excess material or burrs from surfaces, sharpen edges or corners, or buff, hone, or polish metal or plastic work pieces.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $35,854
  
  Median
  
  $44,492
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $60,005
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $17.23
  
  Median
  
  $21.39
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $28.84
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  81.53%
  
  Certificate
  
  14.28%
  
  Some college
  
  4.2%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).

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Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term.

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more comprehensive list of course options and degree requirements, see the CLC college catalog.

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Icon Key

Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
CLC 120	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.	2	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
PMT 110	PMT 110 Manufacturing Your Success Class Description This course will focus on core academic and trade skills to support students' transition during their first semester in the Precision Machining program. The student will be supported while they complete their first semester studying modern machining techniques and earning industry certifications. Emphasis will be placed on mentoring and supporting the students and this course will parallel that of the student's core classes during the first semester. Students will be supported in registering and preparing for credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS), learn the proper operation of the Machinist Calculator and how to locate and interpret technical information in the Machinist Handbook.	1
PMT 112	PMT 112 Blueprint Reading & Precision Measurement Class Description This course prepares students to understand technical information when reading manufacturing blueprints and how to use semi-precision and precision measuring tools. Attention is given to visualization and training in the interpretation of blueprints to determine what appropriate measuring tools are needed to perform accurate measurements. Students will study how to calibrate, maintain, and read dial, digital, and vernier measuring tools. They will also learn to use information located in the title block to calculate acceptable basic and GD&T tolerances for part features and complete inspection reports. Students will complete instructional activities designed to prepare them for obtaining their level one Materials Measurement and Safety credential and Job Planning, Benchwork and Layout credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).	3
PMT 114	PMT 114 Machining Processes I Class Description This course is an introduction to machining and machine shop practices. Topics will include hand tools, measurement, cut off machines, drilling machines, benchwork, turning machines, milling machines, grinding machines and general safety. The content of this course will provide students with an understanding of the fundamentals of the manual and CNC machining processes. Students will also engage in instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining their Job Planning, Bench work & Layout credential and their Measurement, Materials, and Safety credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).	3
EWE 120	EWE 120 Job Readiness Skills Class Description This course focuses on job readiness skills to prepare students to apply for an internship/job, improve in a current internship/job, or successfully work towards a promotion. Topics covered include networking, resume writing, interviewing, social media tools, self-awareness, conflict resolution and time management.	1	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CLC 120
Course Title	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
Credits	2
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 110
Course Title	PMT 110 Manufacturing Your Success Class Description This course will focus on core academic and trade skills to support students' transition during their first semester in the Precision Machining program. The student will be supported while they complete their first semester studying modern machining techniques and earning industry certifications. Emphasis will be placed on mentoring and supporting the students and this course will parallel that of the student's core classes during the first semester. Students will be supported in registering and preparing for credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS), learn the proper operation of the Machinist Calculator and how to locate and interpret technical information in the Machinist Handbook.
Credits	1

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 112
Course Title	PMT 112 Blueprint Reading & Precision Measurement Class Description This course prepares students to understand technical information when reading manufacturing blueprints and how to use semi-precision and precision measuring tools. Attention is given to visualization and training in the interpretation of blueprints to determine what appropriate measuring tools are needed to perform accurate measurements. Students will study how to calibrate, maintain, and read dial, digital, and vernier measuring tools. They will also learn to use information located in the title block to calculate acceptable basic and GD&T tolerances for part features and complete inspection reports. Students will complete instructional activities designed to prepare them for obtaining their level one Materials Measurement and Safety credential and Job Planning, Benchwork and Layout credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 114
Course Title	PMT 114 Machining Processes I Class Description This course is an introduction to machining and machine shop practices. Topics will include hand tools, measurement, cut off machines, drilling machines, benchwork, turning machines, milling machines, grinding machines and general safety. The content of this course will provide students with an understanding of the fundamentals of the manual and CNC machining processes. Students will also engage in instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining their Job Planning, Bench work & Layout credential and their Measurement, Materials, and Safety credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	EWE 120
Course Title	EWE 120 Job Readiness Skills Class Description This course focuses on job readiness skills to prepare students to apply for an internship/job, improve in a current internship/job, or successfully work towards a promotion. Topics covered include networking, resume writing, interviewing, social media tools, self-awareness, conflict resolution and time management.
Credits	1
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
PMT 124	PMT 124 Machining Processes II Class Description The content of this course is a continuation of Machining Processes I and will provide students with the ability to improve their skills in manual milling and turning processes. Students will hone their skills in precision manual machining procedures utilizing processes such as boring, threading, grooving, dovetail cutting, slot milling, and key seat cutting. Students will also be able to improve their ability to perform job planning and reinforce their measurement and blueprint reading skills by producing precision parts on manual metalworking machines. Students will use precision and semi-precision measuring instruments to complete their projects and engage in instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining their level one Manual Milling Skills I and Turning Operations: Turning between Centers credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).	3
PMT 126	PMT 126 CNC Machining Class Description This course introduces students to the skills of CNC Mill and Turning Center setup. Through lecture and lab assignments, the student will learn how to setup 2-1/2 axis CNC mills and 2-axis lathes. Students will learn G and M codes, basic programming format, speeds and feeds, tool and machine offsets, workholding methods and the basic features of CNC control panels. Students will manufacture simple parts using CNC milling and turning equipment and will gain the experience of performing quality control inspections before, during, and after CNC operations. Students will complete instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining two credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) in CNC Milling: Operations and CNC Turning: Operations.	3
PMT 129	PMT 129 EDM & Waterjet Technology Class Description This course teaches the general concepts of Wire Electrical Discharge Machining, a method involving electrical discharges between a wire and a conductive workpiece to remove material in a non-conventional manner. Through lecture and lab assignments, the student will learn multiple EDM skills, beginning with an overview of Wire EDM technology, followed by wire selection, spark gap theory, and the principles of rough cuts and skim passes. Terminology used in the field of Wire EDM will be emphasized, accompanied by demonstrations, student programming, and EDM setup and operation. Students will also learn abrasive machining theory and concepts while setting up, operating and programming an OMAX waterjet.	3
PMT 134	PMT 134 CNC Lathe Setup & Programming Class Description This course teaches the general concepts of CNC Lathe Programming using manual G & M coding. Students will program offline and on the shop floor while learning the principles of 2 axis CNC turning. Students will also be introduced to CAM programming. Lab time will entail performing hands-on setup and machine operation running programs students create. Students will manufacture simple parts using CNC turning equipment and will gain the experience of performing quality control inspections before, during, and after CNC operations. Students will complete instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining two credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) in CNC Turning: Programming, Setup and Operations and CNC Turning: Operations.	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 124
Course Title	PMT 124 Machining Processes II Class Description The content of this course is a continuation of Machining Processes I and will provide students with the ability to improve their skills in manual milling and turning processes. Students will hone their skills in precision manual machining procedures utilizing processes such as boring, threading, grooving, dovetail cutting, slot milling, and key seat cutting. Students will also be able to improve their ability to perform job planning and reinforce their measurement and blueprint reading skills by producing precision parts on manual metalworking machines. Students will use precision and semi-precision measuring instruments to complete their projects and engage in instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining their level one Manual Milling Skills I and Turning Operations: Turning between Centers credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 126
Course Title	PMT 126 CNC Machining Class Description This course introduces students to the skills of CNC Mill and Turning Center setup. Through lecture and lab assignments, the student will learn how to setup 2-1/2 axis CNC mills and 2-axis lathes. Students will learn G and M codes, basic programming format, speeds and feeds, tool and machine offsets, workholding methods and the basic features of CNC control panels. Students will manufacture simple parts using CNC milling and turning equipment and will gain the experience of performing quality control inspections before, during, and after CNC operations. Students will complete instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining two credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) in CNC Milling: Operations and CNC Turning: Operations.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 129
Course Title	PMT 129 EDM & Waterjet Technology Class Description This course teaches the general concepts of Wire Electrical Discharge Machining, a method involving electrical discharges between a wire and a conductive workpiece to remove material in a non-conventional manner. Through lecture and lab assignments, the student will learn multiple EDM skills, beginning with an overview of Wire EDM technology, followed by wire selection, spark gap theory, and the principles of rough cuts and skim passes. Terminology used in the field of Wire EDM will be emphasized, accompanied by demonstrations, student programming, and EDM setup and operation. Students will also learn abrasive machining theory and concepts while setting up, operating and programming an OMAX waterjet.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 134
Course Title	PMT 134 CNC Lathe Setup & Programming Class Description This course teaches the general concepts of CNC Lathe Programming using manual G & M coding. Students will program offline and on the shop floor while learning the principles of 2 axis CNC turning. Students will also be introduced to CAM programming. Lab time will entail performing hands-on setup and machine operation running programs students create. Students will manufacture simple parts using CNC turning equipment and will gain the experience of performing quality control inspections before, during, and after CNC operations. Students will complete instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining two credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) in CNC Turning: Programming, Setup and Operations and CNC Turning: Operations.
Credits	3

Course options: Students can choose EWE 220 instead of PMT 129.

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
PMT 136	PMT 136 Advanced Inspection & Measurement Class Description This course will provide students with training on basic and advanced measuring tools and techniques commonly found in manufacturing environments. This course teaches the care and use of metrology tools such as optical comparators, toolmakers microscope, surface gages and various pins and gages utilizing advanced measurement techniques including the programming and operation of coordinate measuring machines (CMM) and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing techniques.	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 136
Course Title	PMT 136 Advanced Inspection & Measurement Class Description This course will provide students with training on basic and advanced measuring tools and techniques commonly found in manufacturing environments. This course teaches the care and use of metrology tools such as optical comparators, toolmakers microscope, surface gages and various pins and gages utilizing advanced measurement techniques including the programming and operation of coordinate measuring machines (CMM) and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing techniques.
Credits	3

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
PMT 132	PMT 132 CNC Mill Setup & Programming Class Description This course teaches the general concepts of CNC Mill Programming using manual G & M coding. Students will program offline and on the shop floor while learning the principles of 2-1/2 axis CNC milling. Students will also be introduced to CAM programming. Lab time will entail performing hands-on setup and machine operation running programs students create. Students will manufacture simple parts using CNC milling equipment and will gain the experience of performing quality control inspections before, during, and after CNC operations. Students will complete instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining two credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) in CNC Milling: Programming, Setup and Operations and CNC Milling: Operations.	3
PMT 138	PMT 138 CAM Programming-2D Class Description This course introduces computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing using MASTERCAM as a CAD/CAM environment, emphasizing the writing and running of CNC Mill and lathe programs and machining parts. It is a study of basic modern machining methods and teaches the use of software in creating geometry for milling parts. Students will use CAM software to strategize and create 2-axis toolpaths from 2D geometry and then the students will setup and machine the parts on a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machining and Turning Center.	3
PMT 128	PMT 128 Precision Grinding Class Description The course is designed to provide the student with learning experiences in the theoretical and the practical skills development in precision grinding operations. The students will machine parts and use a surface grinder to apply various surface and form grinding techniques to make metal parts to blueprint specifications. The fundamental theory of centerless grinding and ID/OD grinding will also be covered in this course. Students will complete instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining a credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) in Grinding.	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 132
Course Title	PMT 132 CNC Mill Setup & Programming Class Description This course teaches the general concepts of CNC Mill Programming using manual G & M coding. Students will program offline and on the shop floor while learning the principles of 2-1/2 axis CNC milling. Students will also be introduced to CAM programming. Lab time will entail performing hands-on setup and machine operation running programs students create. Students will manufacture simple parts using CNC milling equipment and will gain the experience of performing quality control inspections before, during, and after CNC operations. Students will complete instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining two credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) in CNC Milling: Programming, Setup and Operations and CNC Milling: Operations.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 138
Course Title	PMT 138 CAM Programming-2D Class Description This course introduces computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing using MASTERCAM as a CAD/CAM environment, emphasizing the writing and running of CNC Mill and lathe programs and machining parts. It is a study of basic modern machining methods and teaches the use of software in creating geometry for milling parts. Students will use CAM software to strategize and create 2-axis toolpaths from 2D geometry and then the students will setup and machine the parts on a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machining and Turning Center.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 128
Course Title	PMT 128 Precision Grinding Class Description The course is designed to provide the student with learning experiences in the theoretical and the practical skills development in precision grinding operations. The students will machine parts and use a surface grinder to apply various surface and form grinding techniques to make metal parts to blueprint specifications. The fundamental theory of centerless grinding and ID/OD grinding will also be covered in this course. Students will complete instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining a credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) in Grinding.
Credits	3

Total Credit Hours

34

Precision Machining Technology at CLC

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A CNC Programming Technician Certificate is just one possible way to study Precision Machining Technology. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.

View the Precision Machining Technology program overview

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Frequently asked questions

Some of the skills you need to be successful in this program are:
- ability to work with your hands
- work both independently and as a team player
- ability to prioritize
- organizational skills
- attention to detail
- self-motivation
- critical thinking
- problem-solving skills
- comfortable using technology and hand tools
- ability to write clearly
After completing this certificate, you qualify to take the exams for these NIMS Level 1 certifications:
- NIMS Level 1: Measurement, Materials, and Safety
- NIMS Level 1: Job Planning Benchwork and Layout
- NIMS Level 1: Manual Milling Skills I
- NIMS Level 1: Turning Operations: Turning Between Centers
- NIMS Level 1: CNC Milling: Operations
- NIMS Level 1: CNC Turning: Operations
- NIMS Level 1: Grinding Skills I
- NIMS Level 1: CNC Milling: Programming, Setup and Operations
- NIMS Level 1: CNC Turning: Programming, Setup and Operations
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At its core, machining teaches you to transform raw material into a finished part.
The CNC Programming Technician Certificate prepares you for process planning, quality control, set-up and operation of manual/computer numeric control (CNC) machines.
You also acquire the skills needed for:
- manual G&M code programming
- computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM)
- CNC machine tool programming
- set-up and operation
- precision measuring devices, including a coordinate measuring machines (CMM)
Employers who offer these types of jobs in Lake County include:
- A.L. Hansen
- Endo Plus
- HN Precision
- KNUTH Machine Tools USA
- Laser Precision, LLC
- Ludlow Manufacturing
- Lyndex-Nikken
- Metcalf Machine
- NYPRO Mold
- NyproMold
- Qualitek Manufacturing, Inc
- West Machine Products
The estimated cost of this program appears at the top of this web page, under the program title.

The cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours. It includes in-district tuition and fees, such as for books and materials. It does not factor in financial aid (grants, loans, scholarships) that you may receive.

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Some courses in this program are subject to variable tuition and course fees because they provide specialized experiences, instruction or technology/equipment.

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Many opportunities exist at CLC to get financial aid. Learn more about Learn more about Cost of Attendance.

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Metal work meets programming work

What can you do with a CNC Programming Technician certificate in Precision Machining Technology?

NIMS-accredited

Highlights

Accreditation

Stackable Credentials

Apprenticeships for Experience

Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities

Career Certificate

WIOA Program

Career Outlook

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

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Recommended Pathway

Icon Key

Semester 1 10 Credits

Semester 2 12 Credits

Semester 3 3 Credits

Semester 4 9 Credits

Total Credit Hours

Precision Machining Technology at CLC

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Frequently asked questions

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