CNC Programming Technician Certificate

Career Certificate
Cost
$7,167*

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.

Highlights

  • Accreditation

    Accredited by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills.

  • Stackable Credentials

    Earn and learn as you go with stackable credentials.

  • Apprenticeships Available

    Learn and earn through structured on-the-job training.

  • WIOA Program

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

  • Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

    Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.

  • Career Certificate

    Earn a career certificate in 1 year or less to refine your skills into an in-demand career.

Career Outlook

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Need help?

Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) is your "go-to person" ready to help you get started at CLC.

Your CCN guides you through the admission process, helps you choose your academic program, enroll in classes and connect you with resources.

Talk to a CCN

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 inclusive list of course options, see the college catalog.

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
    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
    • 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
      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
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    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 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 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 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
      Course Highlights

  • 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 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 Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    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 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
    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
    • 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 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 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

Total Credit Hours

34

Female student taking notes in class

Precision Machining Technology at CLC

Get the bigger picture

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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*Cost includes tuition and other fees, including books and materials before financial aid is applied, such as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.

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