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

Machining Technology Certificate

Location(s): Gainesville Campus


Richard Marten
Division Chair, Industrial & Engineering Technology
rmarten@nctc.edu
(940)668-7731 ext. 4415

Build Your Future with Precision: Launch a High-Demand Career in Machining at NCTC!

Dream of a hands-on career where your skills are always in demand? The Machining Technology program at NCTC is your direct pathway to becoming a skilled machinist - the essential craftspeople who bring designs to life in industries like manufacturing, construction, and specialized engineering!

A Career That’s Growing: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects faster-than-average job growth for machinists, meaning incredible opportunities await! This isn’t just a job; it’s investing in a secure and thriving future.

Earn While You Learn & Grow: Machinists typically enjoy stable, full-time employment with regular business hours. Starting wages average around $17/hour, but experienced machinists can earn over $25/hour - with significant potential for advancement!

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

  • Basic Level I Workforce Certificate (16 weeks): A fast-track to foundational skills and entry-level positions.
  • Level I Workforce Certificate (1 year): Build on your base and enhance your employability with a comprehensive skillset.
  • Machining Technology, AAS (2 years): The gold standard - a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree that unlocks advanced roles and higher earning potential.

Graduates of the NCTC 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:

Foundational Skills:

  • 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.
  • Precision Measurement: Accurate utilization of industry-standard precision measuring tools for part inspection and quality control.
  • CAM & Machine Code Understanding: Grasp of the relationship between Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software and the machine code that drives CNC equipment.
  • CNC Equipment Operation: Demonstrated proficiency in operating both CNC mills and lathes.
  • Pattern Development: Creation of patterns essential for the machining trade, supporting efficient production workflows.

Flexible Learning Options: The Level I Workforce Certificate is designed to be completed in approximately 42 weeks (one year) through a convenient blend of face-to-face, hybrid, and online classes!

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

Certificate Requirements


Total Credit Hours: 36


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 MCHN 2435 - Advanced CNC Machining  and MCHN 1326 - Introduction to Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) .

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.