CNC Setup Technician Certificate
- Cost
- $3,850* (estimated)
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Register for Summer and Fall 2026 classes
Get registration details and learn how to apply.
- Summer classes start Monday, June 8. View Summer term classes
- Fall classes start Monday, Aug. 17. View Fall semester classes
Get registration help before summer classes begin. CLC is open Saturday, June 6. View details
Campus buildings are closed Fridays and weekends June 8 to July 31, 2026. View summer hours
- Summer classes start Monday, June 8. View Summer term classes
Set up your future
Step into a new role in a high-tech manufacturing environment. This certificate builds and stacks on top of the Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) operator certificate—or you can start from scratch to earn both in one year. Enter the high-skilled, high-demand field of metalworking and machining.
Learn setup procedures common to manual and CNC machines. Cover these machines in-depth in a machine shop setting:
- mills
- lathes
- waterjets
What can you do with a CNC Setup 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 CNC Operator certificate), you can begin working in industry, even as you earn this CNC Setup certificate.
Start with the CNC Operator certificate, add the CNC Setup Technician Certificate and then earn the CNC Programming certificate or the full Precision Machining Technology associate degree. Each certificate builds on the one before it. Also, certain classes have industry credentials embedded within them. These credentials are very attractive to employers.
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:
Highlights
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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
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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 1 year or less.
*Estimated cost is based on the minimum number of credit hours to complete the program. This estimate includes in-district tuition and comprehensive fees for the 2026-2027 academic year, 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
Need help getting started?
Ask us for help. Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) will help you:
- complete the admission process
- choose an academic program
- enroll in first-semester classes
- get access to helpful resources
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.
Precision Machining Technology at CLC
Get the bigger picture
A CNC Setup Technician certificate is just one possible way to study Precision Machining. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.
Apply now: It's easy and free
Complete the application form to begin your program.
After you apply, a Career and College Navigator (CCN) will reach out to answer your questions, guide your next steps and help you get enrolled. Explore steps to apply at CLC.
Frequently asked questions
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