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Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Tool Programmer

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JOB OUTLOOK

Increasing

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Manufacturing cluster Production pathway.

Beyond High School

Here's a list of programs that you should consider if you're interested in this career:

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

Post-secondary training, plus on-the-job training

Computer numerically controlled (CNC) tool programmers typically need postsecondary education.

Insider Info

Additional Information

Tool programmers typically have similar training to machinists. Then they add specialized training with CNC equipment and programming techniques.

Some receive their training through apprenticeships. However, most are graduates of community or technical college courses. CNC programs for operators and programmers are typically one or two years in duration.

"The training starts you out with just the basic operation of manual machines... and then it goes on to basic operation of CNC machines, and then they go into programming," says Jasmine Harris. She worked as a CNC machinist after studying machine tool technology for one year at a technical college.

If you're still in middle school or high school, how can you prepare for this field?

"Basically, they just need a decent understanding of math, and if they can take any kind of drafting courses, that will help them better understand [blue]prints as they move into this field," says Steve Stokes. He is chair of the Computer-Integrated Machining Technology program at Gaston College in North Carolina. "Those are the only two courses that most of today's high schools offer that would prepare them for this field."

Specialized fields, such as aeronautics, may require their tool programmers to have degrees in engineering.

CNC operators must be mechanically inclined, computer-literate and able to do highly accurate work. They update their skills through training provided by the equipment manufacturer or through technical schools.

Prospective CNC operators and programmers "mostly just need an interest in machining or a mechanical inclination," says Ken Ellis. He's chair of the Center for Advanced Technologies at a college, which includes a CNC program.

"Drawing people into the program is always a challenge," says Ellis. "We get a lot of people who come here as second careers, because they've been out working and they've found that there's a good employment opportunity in these areas."

Extra Requirements

Certification can show competence and can be helpful for advancement. The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) offers certification in numerous metalworking specializations.

For additional information, visit these websites:

Contact

  • Email Support
  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900
  • North Dakota Career Resource Network
    ndcrn@nd.gov | (701) 328-9733

Support