Computer Numeric Control (CNC)

Overview

This certificate is designed to prepare participants for jobs as computer-controlled milling machine operators for metal and plastic. Courses are taught over two semesters, with the first semester covering foundation skills and prerequisites for the CNC course. The next semester provides basic skills, including milling, inspection, and computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing. Courses in this certificate prepare students for entry-level jobs as CNC operators.

Dual Enrollment

Students enrolled in the CNC Certificate program may elect to enroll in the Associate Degree in Technical Studies. Dual enrollment is contingent upon active or graduate status of the certificate. Completion of the CNC certificate satisfies the requirement for the technical specialty core (24 credits) of the Technical Studies degree.

This certificate program is offered at our Rochester Campus.

Curriculum Outline

The classes and coursework required is as follows:

Fall Semester

Spring Semester

Total Certificate Credits: 21

Technical Electives

CNC Certificate students continuing with the Technical Studies A.S. Degree may select Technical Electives including, but not limited to the following.

Program Specific Requirements

Admission Requirements

• Complete an application for the program.
• Provide proof of high school completion or equivalent.
• Provide an official copy of prior college transcripts, if appropriate.

Transfer Credit Policy

In addition to Great Bay transfer credits policies, transfer of courses in the CNC program will be evaluated by the department chair on an individual basis.

Students enrolled in the CNC Certificate program may elect to enroll in the Associate Degree in Technical Studies. Dual enrollment is contingent upon active or graduate status of the certificate. Completion of the CNC certificate satisfies the requirement for the technical specialty core of the Technical Studies degree.

Technical Requirements

This program includes work in a manufacturing lab and requires participants to physically perform functions that require the following:

• Normal vision for reading instructions and for performing tasks, including inspecting parts for quality (corrective vision is acceptable).
• Mobility and strength for performing tasks that require reaching, walking, standing, and safely lifting up to 20lbs.
• Ability to hear sounds of equipment, for equipment operation and safety.

Health and Safety Considerations

This program includes work in a manufacturing lab where potentially hazardous materials are used. Students will be taught industry standards for safety and will be expected to follow all safety procedures for material handling. Personal protective equipment must be worn. Students will provide their own safety boots or shoes.

Program Outcomes

After completing this certificate students will be able to:

• Demonstrate skills and knowledge required for jobs as CNC machine operators/programmers.

• Demonstrate ability to inspect, test, or measure materials, products, or work for conformance to specifications.

• Apply critical thinking skills to use logic and reason to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative approaches to problems.

• Safely operate a 3-axis milling machine, set up and maintain probes and cutting tools, perform basic machine maintenance, and apply tolerance specifications.

• Monitor operation/performance to make sure a machine is working properly, make improvements or take corrective action.