Machining Technology, Certificate of Proficiency

60 CREDITS

Program Admission Dates: Fall

The Machining Technology Certificate of Proficiency prepares students for setup machining positions in machining technology and related fields that utilize CNC programming. Students have a solid foundation in programming and set up of 2-axis turning and 3-axis milling processes. With this certificate, students are better prepared to advance within their field.

Machining Technology Certificate of Completion 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
• demonstrate critical thinking, teamwork, intercultural appreciation, communication and information literacy skills

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).

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.