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What Is CNC Machining and What Does CNC Mean?
Wondering what CNC machining is? Learn about what CNC is, what CNC machinists do, and what CNC machining careers are available.
Have you ever wondered how tiny parts that make up machines are crafted so precisely? Or how a bigger object like an automobile frame is designed and manufactured to work perfectly and keep you safe while you’re driving?
It’s all thanks to computer numerical control (CNC) machines. Operators who have completed CNC training have learned to program a computer with code based on designs and blueprints. The computer then uses that code to operate tools like lathes and mills that shape pieces of material, like metal and plastic, and transform them into workable parts.
CNC machines can create everything from body-part implants, like knee replacements, to door frames and computer parts. If you want to learn more answers to “What is CNC training?” read on to learn what to expect from CNC machine training programs.
Components of CNC Machinist Training Programs
The CNC Machining Technology program offered at NASCAR Technical Institute (NASCAR Tech) teaches students how to successfully set up and operate CNC machines, as well as how to troubleshoot so part creation is flawless. In CNC machine training, students learn skills including:
- Reading blueprints and using computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software programs
- Interpreting geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
- Programming, setup, operation and disassembly of CNC lathes and mills
- Aligning, securing and adjusting work pieces and cutting tools
- Monitoring machine movement and speed
- Examining completed products for defects and conducting product testing
- Smoothing part or product surfaces
- Working with industry-preferred tools and technology, from brands like Mastercam, Mitsubishi Materials and Mitee-Bite Products LLC
- Using best practices in safety and job planning
Training to become entry-level CNC machinists can be completed in as few as 36 weeks at NASCAR Tech.1 Those who have completed CNC machine training can go on to apply for roles like CNC programmer, CNC setup operator and CNC operator. Some CNC machinists have leadership aspirations and work toward positions like quality control inspector and shop supervisor. Others may even open up their own CNC machinist businesses.
Benefits of Completing CNC Machine Training
A career as a CNC machinist can be exciting, and skilled machinists are in demand, which can open the door to a variety of opportunities.
Where Do CNC Machinists Work?
CNC machinists can work in a variety of industries. Most businesses rely on precise parts for products. Whatever field you’re interested in, you might be able to find fulfilling work in it as a CNC machinist.
Some popular industries for CNC machinists include:
- Automotive and racing
- Aviation
- Aerospace
- Military defense
- Medical and dental
- Computers and technology
One benefit of formal CNC machine training is that graduates are prepared to enter the field as soon as they leave school. Some students even start working in support roles while they’re still in school.
Some employers require CNC machinist training from a technical institute in order to even consider the candidate. A CNC machine training education at reputable schools such as NASCAR Tech is attractive to employers because they know students learn the technical skills needed to succeed in the industry.
How Much Do CNC Machinists Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for computer numerically controlled tool operators in the United States was $46,760 in May 2022.34 This means half of CNC machinists earned more and half earned less.
Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area. Those who are passionate about this field can work their way up to positions with greater responsibility, which could lead to higher income.2
Train to Become a CNC Machinist at NASCAR Tech
NASCAR Tech is unique in that the school has an industry partner in Roush Yates Engines, which provides support and guidance for the CNC Machining Technology curriculum. The company has also hired more than 100 automotive and CNC graduates from Universal Technical Institute (UTI) and NASCAR Tech.
CNC machine training graduates can take advantage of UTI’s employment assistance. UTI helps match graduates with career opportunities that interest them.
Learn more about the CNC Machining Technology program at NASCAR Tech.
NASCAR Technical Institute Campuses That Offer CNC Training
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1.4 ) NASCAR Technical Institute is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
2 ) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
34 ) UTI’s CNC Machining Technology Program prepares graduates for entry-level positions using the provided training, primarily as CNC machinists. Estimated annual salary shown above is for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators as published in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May 2022 Occupational Employment and Wages. Entry-level salaries are lower for UTI graduates. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. UTI graduates’ achievements may vary. Individual circumstances and wages depend on economic factors, personal credentials, work experience, industry certifications, the location of the employer, and their compensation programs. Some UTI graduates get jobs within their field of study in positions other than as a CNC technician, such as CNC operator, apprentice machinist, and machined parts inspector. Salary information for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts: The average annual entry-level salary for persons employed as Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic (51-4011) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is $35,140 (Massachusetts Labor and Workforce Development, May 2020 data https://lmi.dua.eol.mass.gov/lmi/OccupationalEmploymentAndWageSpecificOccupations#). Salary information for North Carolina: The U.S. Department of Labor estimates the hourly median wage for skilled CNC machinists in North Carolina is $22.01 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, May 2022 Occupational Employment and Wages, Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators). The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish entry-level salary data. However, the 25th and 10th percentile of hourly earnings in North Carolina are $17.28 and $14.82, respectively.
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.
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