Apr 23, 2026  
2026-2027 Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Catalog

Machining Basic Certificate

Location(s): Gainesville Campus


Richard Marten
Division Chair, HVAC, Machining, & Welding
rmarten@nctc.edu
(940)668-7731 ext. 4415

Launch Your Career in Just 16 Weeks: Become a Machinist with NCTC!

Ready for a hands-on career that’s building the future? The Machining Technology program at NCTC is your fast-track to becoming a skilled machinist - the essential craftspeople who bring designs to life in manufacturing, construction, and specialized industries!

High Demand & Growing Opportunities: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects faster-than-average job growth for machinists, meaning excellent career prospects are on the horizon! This isn’t just a job; it’s investing in a secure and thriving future.

Earn While You Learn: Most machinists enjoy stable, full-time employment with regular business hours. Starting wages average around $17/hour, but experienced machinists can earn over $25/hour - with plenty of room for advancement!

Choose Your Path to Success: NCTC offers flexible pathways tailored to your goals:

  • Basic Level I Workforce Certificate (16 weeks): A quick and focused program to get you started in entry-level positions.
  • Level I Workforce Certificate (1 year): Build on your foundation with a more comprehensive skillset.
  • Machining Technology, AAS (2 years): The gold standard - a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree for advanced roles and higher earning potential.

Graduates of the NCTC Basic Machining Technology Level 1 Certificate will demonstrate proficiency in a comprehensive range of technical and professional competencies, preparing them for success in modern manufacturing environments. These competencies are categorized as follows:

  • Professional Communication: Effective verbal and written communication skills appropriate for industry settings.
  • Workplace Safety: Implementation of proper safety protocols and practices to maintain a secure work environment.
  • Basic Machining Operations: Competent execution of fundamental machining procedures utilizing hand tools and basic machinery.
  • CNC Fundamentals: Understanding of core concepts related to Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machining technology.
  • Blueprint Reading: Foundational knowledge of blueprint interpretation for the machining trade.

Flexible Learning Options: This certificate is designed to be completed in just one semester (16 weeks) with a convenient blend of online, hybrid, and face-to-face classes!

Ready to take the first step towards a rewarding career? Contact NCTC today to learn more about our Machining Technology program!

Certificate Requirements


Total Credit Hours: 15


Capstone Requirement: Students completing the certificate must pass a comprehensive exam and lab with a score of 70% or higher. The exam and lab are embedded in the curriculum for MCHN 1341 - Basic Machine Shop II .

Financial Outlook Disclaimer


The salary information provided on this page is based on industry projections, publicly available data, and employer-reported trends. Actual salaries can vary significantly based on factors such as location, experience, education or degree level, industry demand, and individual employer policies.
Students can meet with the college’s Career Services to learn more about specific career pathways and current labor market information. The college does not promise or imply any guaranteed salary levels upon graduation.