Program of Study: Machine Tool Technology

CIP Code: 48.0501 - Information Page

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Machine Tool Technology program is designed to prepare students to enter the Machinist / Manufacturing Trade. The first year of the Machine Tool Tech. training is used to explain the nature and purpose of the machine trade. The student is introduced to tools, materials, equipment, and trade terms and develops the skills to do the job. The student receives advanced precision machining skills using machines such as the Computer Numerical Controller (CNC) machining and turning centers, CAD/CAM software, and other shop equipment. Blueprint reading is also learned. Students become acquainted with a variety of metals and learn how to use the various types of cutting tools. Use of precise measuring tools & making accurate setups on manual lathes, vertical milling machines, surface grinders, CNC machines & other various shop equipment is also taught. 

CERTIFICATIONS

• National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certification

A  STUDENT IN MACHINE TOOL TECHNOLOGY WILL LEARN

Machinists typically do the following:

• Read blueprints, sketches, or computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) files

• Set up, operate, and disassemble manual, automatic, and computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools

• Align, secure, and adjust cutting tools and workpieces

• Monitor the feed and speed of machines

• Turn, mill, drill, shape, and grind machine parts to specifications

• Measure, examine, and test completed products for defects

• Smooth the surfaces of parts or products

• Present finished workpieces to customers and make modifications if needed

Tool and die makers typically do the following:

• Read blueprints, sketches, specifications, or CAD and CAM files for making tools and dies

• Compute and verify dimensions, sizes, shapes, and tolerances of workpieces

• Set up, operate, and disassemble conventional, manual, and CNC machine tools

• File, grind, and adjust parts so that they fit together properly

• Test completed tools and dies to ensure that they meet specifications

• Smooth and polish the surfaces of tools and dies

CAREER PATHWAYS

• Machinist *

• Metal Worker

• Machinery Maintenance Worker

• MillWright

• Tool & Die Maker *

(* = Certification)

SKILLS TO DEVELOP

• Analytical skills. Machinists and tool and die makers must understand technical blueprints, models, and specifications so that they can craft precision tools and metal parts.

• Manual dexterity. Machinists’ and tool and die makers’ work must be accurate. For example, machining parts may demand accuracy to within .0001 of an inch, a level of accuracy that requires workers’ concentration and dexterity.

• Math skills and computer application experience. Workers must be experienced in using computers to work with CAD/CAM technology, CNC machine tools, and computerized measuring machines.

• Mechanical skills. Machinists and tool and die makers must operate milling machines, lathes, grinders, laser and water cutting machines, wire electrical discharge machines, and other machine tools.

• Physical stamina. Machinists and tool and die makers must stand for extended periods and perform repetitive movements.

• Technical skills. Machinists and tool and die makers must understand computerized measuring machines and metalworking processes, such as stock removal, chip control, and heat treating and plating.

COMMON CORE STANDARD INTEGRATION:

• Technical Reading: Main Idea & Text Evidence, Vocabulary & Symbols, Author’s Purpose, Text Structure (Compare/Contrast, Multi-Step Procedure, Description, & Qualitative/Technical Information into Visual Forms via Chart or Table) Multiple Sources

• Mathematics: Numbers & Operations, Algebra, Geometry

STATE BOARD/ POST SECONDARY/UNION RESOURCES

• Coming soon

LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR FUTURE CAREER:

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