CNC Machining Short-Term Training Program
Are you ready to gain the skills needed to succeed in today's manufacturing industry as a CNC operator or machinist?
CNC operators set up and operate machinery and equipment that produce detailed and intricate parts for industry.
The CNC machines you'll be trained to operate use pre-programmed computer software to operate factory tools, machinery, and robots. The process is used to cut, drill, grind and shape a variety of materials from metal to plastic.
What Will I Learn?
In this course you'll build on your foundation of knowledge and dive deeper into the basic principles learned in the prerequisite Industry 4.0 Basic Operations course with a number of hands-on exercises.
You'll learn how to operate the CNC mill and lathe and also write your own programs using the same type of equipment our local manufacturers use in their facilities.
We'll cover the following:
- Learn to read the programming language
- Ability to use multiple types of programming options
- Print reading
- Precision measurement
- Machining principles
- Resume and interview training
- Machine setup
- Tooling identification
- Basic machine maintenance
- Mill and lathe programming and operation
- 10-Hour OSHA Certification
What Are My Career Opportunities?
CNC operators are in high demand throughout the Cedar Valley.
Individuals completing the non-credit certificate may find employment as a CNC operator, CNC machinist, machine operator or machinist. Wages generally increase with skill and experience.
Example Careers and Average Wages
| Career | Entry | Average | Experienced |
| Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators | $31,900 | $40,200 | $44,300 |
| Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators | $35,600 | $44,100 | $48,300 |
| Machinist | $34,900 | $45,400 | $50,600 |
Source: Iowa Wage Report, Iowa Workforce Development
Hawkeye Community College cannot guarantee employment or promotion.
Who Should Enroll?
This course is ideal for those preparing for employment in the manufacturing industry and for people interested in advancement at their place of employment.
To be successful you must have the following traits:
- An eye for detail
- Mechanical aptitude
- The ability to perform mathematical calculations
- Basic understanding of computer programming
- Ability to comply with safety guidelines
- Strong problem-solving and multi-tasking skills
This class is also appropriate for individuals working in the following occupations such as maintenance, machine operation, or engineering and desire to become versed in successful CNC programming, setup, and troubleshooting.
What Are the Enrollment Requirements?
Successful completion of the Industry 4.0 Basic Operations class.
Class Information
Class meets: January 13 – May 7, 2025 on Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 4:30pm– 7:30pm
Location: Automation and Robotics Center, TechWorks Campus
Cost: $4,999
How Do I Register?
Call 319-296-4290 for information and to register.
Questions? Need Help Getting Started?