CNC Set-Up/Operator Certificate

Program Description

This certificate is designed to develop the skills of an individual who has limited or no manufacturing background in the setup and operation of Computer Numerically Controlled  (CNC) equipment. CNC operators operate equipment and maintain quality control of parts being machined. CNC setup operators handle the initial start-up of a program and troubleshoot CNC machine tools. Areas of study include the following:

• How to operate machine tools
• Computer operations
• Entry-level CNC programming
• CNC setup
• CNC operation
• Industrial trades math
• Blueprint reading
• How to use measuring equipment

Tools And Equipment

Students must purchase tool kits for this program.

Approximate Costs

• $111.85 per credit (resident)
• $167.80 per credit (out-of-state resident)
• *Online students are not charged out-of-state fees.

Program Outcomes

• Interpret part drawings.
• Measure precision parts.
• Operate conventional machine tools.
• Operate computer numerical control machine tools.
• Program computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools.
• Set up CNC machine tools.
• Operate CAD/CAM systems.

Career Opportunities

• Graduates of the CNC Set-Up/Operator Certificate are encouraged to continue their formal training; Moraine Park offers a two-year CNC/Tool and Die Technologies technical diploma program. All courses of the certificate are transferable into the technical diploma program. Graduates of the certificate can find employment in machine shops, metal fabrication, tool and die shops, furniture and wood product manufacturers, and plastics manufacturers.

Entrance Scores

Admission Process

• Submit the college admission application.
• Submit the $30 one-time fee.
• Meet with Admissions to discuss order of courses and prerequisites (strongly encouraged).