CNC Machine Tool

Program Description

Work in entry-level skilled machine tool positions such as manual set-up operator, CNC mill set-up operator, maintenance machining, or machining quality inspector. Machinists set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments out of metal applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures. Positions could be at machine shops or at equipment and parts manufacturers such as aerospace and automotive facilities. Industries that use production machinery, such as pharmaceutical and food/beverage, require maintenance machining workers.

In this program, students learn both manual and computer numerical control (CNC) machine tool technology with extensive hands-on and computer-based training at the CCBC Catonsville machine shop. The program starts with essential workplace literacy skills in computers, plus work habits and work ethics. Foundational topics of safety, quality, blueprint reading, and trade math follow. Extensive hands-on machining training includes both manual and CNC technology. The program also includes resume/interview skills. Completers are in a strong position to apply for entry-level employment. Once established, a student may pursue a machinist apprenticeship and/or other advanced training.​

Students should have the following skills:  Detailed-oriented, dependability, self-control, ability to follow safety rules, ability to follow directions, cooperation, integrity, persistence, manual dexterity, mechanical aptitude, mathematical aptitude, ability to stand for long periods of time, and ability to lift 35 pounds.

​According to the U.S. Department of Labor, overall employment of machinists is projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030 in Maryland.  Projected annual job openings in Maryland are 290.  Additional career information may be found in Career Coach:   https://ccbcmd.lightcastcc.com/.

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this Continuing Education Workforce Certificate, students will be able to:

1. prepare to pass National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS) certifications;

2. operate and maintain manual and computer numerical control (CNC)​ equipment demonstrating proper safety guidelines for shop work;

3. use blueprint reading and calculation skills to produce a part to completion according to quality requirements;

4. use operations such as turning, grooving, drilling, reaming, and boring;

5. describe the correlation between good work habits and personal/team/organizational success; and

6. obtain entry-level or higher employment in manufacturing and progress into an apprenticeship.

CCBC Pathway

Technology and Engineering Pathway - Pathways are designed to help you meet your academic and career goals by aligning related courses and programs.  Pathway students participate in a variety of activities that help explore career opportunities in their field of study.  You can meet with a CCBC advisor who help align — or realign — your educational plan with the Pathway that best supports you and your goals.

Program Credentials

CCBC Credential: Students will be awarded a Continuing Education Workforce Certificate, and will have access to a Continuing Education academic record (transcript).

External Credential: Successful completers will have the opportunity to demonstrate proficiency through five certifications from the National Institute of Metal Working Skills (NIMS): NIMS Measurement, Materials and Safety I Credential; NIMS Chucking Level 1 Credential; NIMS Milling Level I Credential; and two NIMS CNC related credential(s) possible for high-performing students.

Certifying Organization: National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS); www.nims-skills.org

Course costs include fees for NIMS tests to be taken one time.

Disclosures

CCBC cannot confirm whether the course or program meets requirements for professional licensure in states other than Maryland. If you plan to apply for licensure in a state other than Maryland, contact that state’s licensing board to determine whether the CCBC course or program meets requirements for licensure in that state. If you need assistance finding contact information for your state, click here .

Financial Aid and Payment Options

CCBC currently offers Continuing Education (CE) financial aid to those who qualify. We package public and private funding options to benefit students which include COVID-19 relief funding, the Maryland Sequence Scholarship, CCBC Opportunity Grant funding, Maryland Promise, and Baltimore County College Promise. Financial aid funding is available for select CE courses and programs. 

Additional opportunities for financial support include partial payment options through Nelnet Business Solutions and tuition waivers for those who qualify. Resources outside of CCBC may also be available through employer/sponsor paid tuition,  the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS), and your local office of workforce development.

Pell Funding:  Eligible for grants and college loans.  Go to www.fafsa.gov to apply for Federal financial aid.

For more information about funding resources and how to apply for them, please contact the CCBC Continuing Education Information Center at 443-840-4700.

Program Length

​Approximately 9 months.

Courses are offered at CCBC Catonsvill​e starting in September.

Program Requirements

Students must pass a basic mathematics and reading assessment. Students under the age of 18 at the start of classes may be required to submit parental authorization.

Students are required to attend an orientation session. Please call 443-840-4712 for additional information.

​Recommended - Many employers are looking to hire employees with a High School Diploma/GED, but it is not a requirement for this program. However, it may be a requirement if you are seeking funding.

This program is not eligible for Baltimore County Public School Blueprint funding.

Application Process

To apply, go to www.ccbcmd.edu/apply and complete the CCBC Non-Credit Workforce Certificate application.  An email will then be sent with program information and any additional requirements necessary to apply for the program.

Provisional Entry – Prospective students must attend an orientation session and pass a basic math assessment test and a basic reading assessment test.

Prior Learning Assessment

This program has no options for obtaining course waiver(s) for prior learning.

Program Course Sequence

Students must attain a 70% or higher final grade to progress to the next module in the series. A stringent attendance policy will be enforced.

Additional Information

Additional Expenses:
Pencils, notebook (3” binder), calculator (recommended TI 30X), safety glasses with side shields, work shoes (steel toe is not required), and flash drive. All items will be reviewed during orientation.

Career Coach

Research your career interests, explore live job postings, take a career assessment, discover which companies in the Baltimore region are hiring, and more.  View a brief tutorial video on how to use Career Coach at https://youtu.be/C7KpznbPYfA.  Explore career and training opportunities at https://ccbcmd.emsicc.com/.

Program Contact Information

Program Coordinator:  ​Program Coordinator:  Steve Ricketts | srickettts@ccbcmd.edu | 443-840-4442 | Catonsville BESS 100L

Administrative Assistant: Denise Bellamy | dbellamy@ccbcmd.edu | 443-840-4712 | Catonsville BESS 100