Machining Technology, AAS

90-95 CREDITS

Program Admission Dates: Fall 

The Machining Technology Associate of Applied Science degree prepares students and professionals to meet the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for both initial employment and advancement in machining technology and related fields that utilize CNC programming.

Machining Technology AAS graduates are prepared to:

• monitor runs of parts for quality
• recognize when parts are in and out of tolerance
• make adjustments to bring parts back into tolerance
• navigate CNC error codes
• replace broken or dull tools and resetting tool length offsets
• use cutter compensation at the machine
• apply basics of precision measurements
• set up fixtures, load programs onto machines, dry run programs, run first articles, and inspect first articles in order to get first part buy-offs and enter into production
• identify and set correct fixture, X, and Z offsets
• complete initial setting of tool length offsets
• set offsets for ID, OD, and groove/part-off tooling
• hand write and edit basic 2-axis G-code programs
• create original CNC programs using CAD/CAM software
• troubleshoot toolpaths, offsets, and error codes
• program, set up, and run various multi-axis processes including:
  • 2-axis lathe with axial and radial live tooling
  • 3-axis mill with 4th axis capability
  • turning center (machining center) with axial and radial live tooling, a Y axis, and a sub-spindle
  • 5-axis machine that is true 5 axis in a table-table format
• demonstrate critical thinking, teamwork, intercultural appreciation, information literacy, and communication
• meet Social Science, Humanities, Written Communication, and Quantitative Reasoning distribution area outcomes

Students also learn the basics of conversational set up and programming as a foundation for more advanced set up and programming skills, as well as CNC safety, blueprint reading, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T). The final quarter of the program expands students’ knowledge, skills, and abilities in a field related to their career pathways goals.

Lake Washington Institute of Technology does not offer every course each quarter. It is the student’s responsibility to consult the Class Schedule and work out an individual schedule with an advisor. Any developmental coursework a student may be required to complete may increase the program length.