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The Manufacturing/Machining Technology program offers students hands-on training at the largest manufacturing education center in western Colorado. Students gain the fundamental skills required to operate everything from manual lathes and milling machines to computer–numerical controlled (CNC) machines.

In today’s highly automated precision machining environment, machinists need to have a comprehensive knowledge of blueprint reading, metrology, CNC programming, applied mathematics, computer-aided design (CAD), computer–aided manufacturing (CAM), metallurgy and communication skills. CMU Tech students receive the knowledge necessary to apply state-of-the-art techniques to design and build products and meet society’s current and future needs.

Why choose Manufacturing/Machining Technology at CMU Tech?

  • CMU Tech is a Haas Technical Education Center (HTEC) and CAM training center
  • Students learn new product design and rapid prototyping utilizing 3D printers
  • Evening and summer classes are available
  • The program utilizes advanced equipment including CNC lathes, CNC vertical mills surface grinders, 3D printers, manual lathes and milling machines and optical comparators

The Associate of Applied Science Manufacturing Technology degree offers classroom instruction and related lab work, which includes hands-on activities with tools and the operation of equipment found in manufacturing. In the machining technology emphasis students learn to apply industrial knowledge and skills to plan and implement designs, operate manual mills and lathes, operate computer-aided machinery with CAD/CAM software, and computer-numerical controlled (CNC) machines. Students also develop the skills that enable them to read blueprints, apply appropriate mathematical concepts and understand the properties of metal and polymers. This course of study is designed to meet competency-based standards set by the manufacturing industry. With this degree, students will be qualified for the following employment opportunities: entry-level machinist, computer-numerical control operator, numerical tool and process technician, manufacturing engineering technician, and manufacturing inspection technician.

Academic Requirements for Associate of Applied Science in Machining Technology, Manufacturing Technology

Students learn to apply industrial knowledge and skills to plan and implement designs, operate manual mills and lathes, operate computer aided machinery with CAD/CAM software, and computer-numerical controlled (CNC) machines.

Academic Requirements for Technical Certificate in CNC Machinist, Manufacturing Technology

Entry Level Machining program introduces manufacturing, print reading/sketching, and machining. Producing machined parts by operating a computer numerical control (CNC) machine; maintaining quality and safety standards; keeping records; maintaining equipment and supplies.

Academic Requirements for Technical Certificate in Entry Level Machining, Manufacturing Technology

This program offers classroom instruction and related lab work, which includes hands-on activities with tools and the operation of equipment found in manufacturing. Students will work in the areas of blueprint reading, computer numerical control (CNC) machining, general machining and maintenance, computer-aided drafting (CAD) and related mathematics. This course is designed to meet competency-based standards set by the industry. Attitude and quality of workmanship is stressed. Career options include entry level machinist, computer-numerical control operator, numerical tool and process technician, manufacturing engineering technician and manufacturing inspection technician.

Academic Requirements for Technical Certificate in Machine and Manufacturing Trades, Manufacturing Technology

Students learn how to apply industrial knowledge and skills work holding, math, inspection, safety, machining, materials, quality, grinding, and assembly to work as a Manual Machinist.

Academic Requirements for Technical Certificate in Manual Machinist, Manufacturing Technology

Through the use of computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) and computer-aided design (CAD), students will learn the techniques of basic drafting principles and methods used in today’s manufacturing industry. Dimensioning and geometric construction will be explored with CAD/CAM software and transferred to Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) machines to operate machine tools and related machinery in the manufacturing and design of work pieces.

Academic Requirements for Technical Certificate in CAD/CAM, Manufacturing Technology

Career Opportunities

  • Entry-level machinist
  • CNC operator
  • CNC machinist
  • Quality control technician
  • Manufacturing engineering technician

Program Faculty