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Program Requirements

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Program Requirements

CNC Machining Technician

Technical Diploma 31-420-1

www.cvtc.edu
1-800-547-2882

Start Dates: August

Effective: August 2026

First Semester
Course # Course Title Credits Prerequisites/Comments
420-312 Machine Tool Operation Basics 3 Program student; Corequisite: 420-313, 420-316 This course introduces learners to the fundamental principles and safe practices of machine tool operations. Learners apply basic machining techniques. The course emphasizes hands-on experience and the development of essential skills for entry-level machining tasks. Learners demonstrate understanding through the completion of lab projects and performance-based assessments.
Course #: 420-312
Title: Machine Tool Operation Basics
Credits: 3
Prerequisites/Comments: Program student; Corequisite: 420-313, 420-316 This course introduces learners to the fundamental principles and safe practices of machine tool operations. Learners apply basic machining techniques. The course emphasizes hands-on experience and the development of essential skills for entry-level machining tasks. Learners demonstrate understanding through the completion of lab projects and performance-based assessments.
420-313 Machining Fundamentals 3 Program student; Corequisite: 420-312, 420-316 This course analyzes the fundamental principles of precision machining through hands-on application and rigorous safety standards. Learners develop proficiency in setting up and operating lathes, mills, and grinding machines while utilizing the Machinery’s Handbook for technical calculations. Through the integration of precise measurement techniques and strategic cutting tool selection, learners demonstrate their ability to manufacture components within specified tolerances while adhering to industry-standard lockout/tagout and safety protocols.
Course #: 420-313
Title: Machining Fundamentals
Credits: 3
Prerequisites/Comments: Program student; Corequisite: 420-312, 420-316 This course analyzes the fundamental principles of precision machining through hands-on application and rigorous safety standards. Learners develop proficiency in setting up and operating lathes, mills, and grinding machines while utilizing the Machinery’s Handbook for technical calculations. Through the integration of precise measurement techniques and strategic cutting tool selection, learners demonstrate their ability to manufacture components within specified tolerances while adhering to industry-standard lockout/tagout and safety protocols.
420-314 Intro to CAD/CAM 2 Program student This course prepares learners to apply foundational manufacturing and machining knowledge through the use of CAD/CAM systems and CNC machine tools. Learners interpret engineering drawings, identify machine types and cutting tools, and develop basic wireframe and solid models from part prints. The course emphasizes preparing parts, navigating CAD/CAM interfaces, and creating toolpaths using proper work holding, tooling, and part orientation to support accurate and efficient machining operations.
Course #: 420-314
Title: Intro to CAD/CAM
Credits: 2
Prerequisites/Comments: Program student This course prepares learners to apply foundational manufacturing and machining knowledge through the use of CAD/CAM systems and CNC machine tools. Learners interpret engineering drawings, identify machine types and cutting tools, and develop basic wireframe and solid models from part prints. The course emphasizes preparing parts, navigating CAD/CAM interfaces, and creating toolpaths using proper work holding, tooling, and part orientation to support accurate and efficient machining operations.
420-316 Blueprint Reading & Measuremnt 3 Program student; Corequisite: 420-312, 420-313 The learner applies precision measurement techniques and blueprint interpretation skills essential for modern manufacturing environments. Learners demonstrate proficiency using manual metrology tools, gage blocks, and optical inspection equipment to verify part features within tight tolerances. Learners will implement coordinate measuring machines (CMM) to inspect part tolerances. They examine complex industrial drawings, differentiating between line types and orthographic projections to identify machining specifications, fasteners, and assembly requirements. This course emphasizes the accurate translation of technical data from drawings to finished components.
Course #: 420-316
Title: Blueprint Reading & Measuremnt
Credits: 3
Prerequisites/Comments: Program student; Corequisite: 420-312, 420-313 The learner applies precision measurement techniques and blueprint interpretation skills essential for modern manufacturing environments. Learners demonstrate proficiency using manual metrology tools, gage blocks, and optical inspection equipment to verify part features within tight tolerances. Learners will implement coordinate measuring machines (CMM) to inspect part tolerances. They examine complex industrial drawings, differentiating between line types and orthographic projections to identify machining specifications, fasteners, and assembly requirements. This course emphasizes the accurate translation of technical data from drawings to finished components.
420-317 Intro to Machining 2 Program student This course introduces the learner to the fundamentals of machining and shop safety. The learner explores basic machine tool operations, including setup and operation of equipment such as saws, drill presses, and manual mills and lathes. The learner develops foundational skills in measurement, tooling, and material handling. This course prepares learners to perform basic machining tasks while following industry safety and quality standards.
Course #: 420-317
Title: Intro to Machining
Credits: 2
Prerequisites/Comments: Program student This course introduces the learner to the fundamentals of machining and shop safety. The learner explores basic machine tool operations, including setup and operation of equipment such as saws, drill presses, and manual mills and lathes. The learner develops foundational skills in measurement, tooling, and material handling. This course prepares learners to perform basic machining tasks while following industry safety and quality standards.
420-332 CNC Equations 1 1   This course applies foundational mathematical principles and techniques to solve problems encountered in the machining industry. The learner strengthens skills in performing arithmetic operations with real numbers using the correct order of operations and rounding to reasonable place values. The learner develops proficiency in applying ratios, rates, proportions, and percentages to technical applications and measurement conversions within and between the U.S. customary and metric systems. Furthermore, the learner demonstrates knowledge by solving linear equations using algebraic techniques, and applying geometric concepts—including perimeter, area, surface area, volume, coordinate systems, and right-triangle trigonometry—to 2D and 3D shapes. CNC Equations 1 will build a basic foundation for math used in CNC machining.
Course #: 420-332
Title: CNC Equations 1
Credits: 1
Prerequisites/Comments:   This course applies foundational mathematical principles and techniques to solve problems encountered in the machining industry. The learner strengthens skills in performing arithmetic operations with real numbers using the correct order of operations and rounding to reasonable place values. The learner develops proficiency in applying ratios, rates, proportions, and percentages to technical applications and measurement conversions within and between the U.S. customary and metric systems. Furthermore, the learner demonstrates knowledge by solving linear equations using algebraic techniques, and applying geometric concepts—including perimeter, area, surface area, volume, coordinate systems, and right-triangle trigonometry—to 2D and 3D shapes. CNC Equations 1 will build a basic foundation for math used in CNC machining.
  Total Credits: 14  
Total Credits: 14

Second Semester
Course # Course Title Credits Prerequisites/Comments
420-328 MasterCAM Programming 2 420-314 The learner applies CAD-CAM software to transform technical prints into finished precision parts. By creating accurate geometry, applying dimensions, and generating optimized milling toolpaths, learners develop the technical skills necessary to produce functional components. The learner verifies machining simulations, generates NC code, and executes programs on CNC milling machines. Mastery is demonstrated by setting up work holding, managing tool offsets, and machining workpieces to specified tolerances.
Course #: 420-328
Title: MasterCAM Programming
Credits: 2
Prerequisites/Comments: 420-314 The learner applies CAD-CAM software to transform technical prints into finished precision parts. By creating accurate geometry, applying dimensions, and generating optimized milling toolpaths, learners develop the technical skills necessary to produce functional components. The learner verifies machining simulations, generates NC code, and executes programs on CNC milling machines. Mastery is demonstrated by setting up work holding, managing tool offsets, and machining workpieces to specified tolerances.
420-329 CNC Mill Operations 3 420-312 and 420-313 and 420-317; Corequisite: 420-335 The learner applies advanced machining principles to safely set up and operate CNC milling centers. By interpreting blueprints and following standardized procedures, learners establish precise tool and work coordinate offsets while utilizing dial indicators for accurate work holding alignment. Through program verification and the application of cutter compensation, learners manufacture complex components to rigorous industry tolerances while maintaining a professional, OSHA-compliant workspace.
Course #: 420-329
Title: CNC Mill Operations
Credits: 3
Prerequisites/Comments: 420-312 and 420-313 and 420-317; Corequisite: 420-335 The learner applies advanced machining principles to safely set up and operate CNC milling centers. By interpreting blueprints and following standardized procedures, learners establish precise tool and work coordinate offsets while utilizing dial indicators for accurate work holding alignment. Through program verification and the application of cutter compensation, learners manufacture complex components to rigorous industry tolerances while maintaining a professional, OSHA-compliant workspace.
420-333 CNC Equations 2 1 420-332 This course will cover CNC equations to program CNC machine tools. Equations covered will be geometry, trigonometry, blending angles to arcs, and geometric entities using practical applications. The applications will directly relate to programming CNC machines. This course will also cover calculations for spindle speeds and feed rates for machine tools.
Course #: 420-333
Title: CNC Equations 2
Credits: 1
Prerequisites/Comments: 420-332 This course will cover CNC equations to program CNC machine tools. Equations covered will be geometry, trigonometry, blending angles to arcs, and geometric entities using practical applications. The applications will directly relate to programming CNC machines. This course will also cover calculations for spindle speeds and feed rates for machine tools.
420-334 CNC Lathe Operations 3 420-312 and 420-313 and 420-317; Corequisite: 420-336 The learner applies fundamental CNC lathe operations to produce precision components within strict blueprint tolerances. Through hands-on experience, learners practice machine safety, tool and work coordinate offsets, and manual data input (MDI) programming. Participants demonstrate mastery by setting up workholding, verifying tool paths through control graphics, and executing programs to create finished parts.
Course #: 420-334
Title: CNC Lathe Operations
Credits: 3
Prerequisites/Comments: 420-312 and 420-313 and 420-317; Corequisite: 420-336 The learner applies fundamental CNC lathe operations to produce precision components within strict blueprint tolerances. Through hands-on experience, learners practice machine safety, tool and work coordinate offsets, and manual data input (MDI) programming. Participants demonstrate mastery by setting up workholding, verifying tool paths through control graphics, and executing programs to create finished parts.
420-335 CNC Mill Programming 1 420-312 and 420-313 and 420-317; Corequisite: 420-329 The learner applies basics G-code programming techniques to develop precise CNC milling operations. By utilizing Cartesian coordinates, learners master linear and circular interpolation, implement cutter compensation strategies, and execute various canned cycles for drilling and tapping. Participants demonstrate proficiency by interpreting process sheets and writing error-free programs that translate complex blueprint geometry into functional machined parts.
Course #: 420-335
Title: CNC Mill Programming
Credits: 1
Prerequisites/Comments: 420-312 and 420-313 and 420-317; Corequisite: 420-329 The learner applies basics G-code programming techniques to develop precise CNC milling operations. By utilizing Cartesian coordinates, learners master linear and circular interpolation, implement cutter compensation strategies, and execute various canned cycles for drilling and tapping. Participants demonstrate proficiency by interpreting process sheets and writing error-free programs that translate complex blueprint geometry into functional machined parts.
420-336 CNC Lathe Programming 1 420-312 and 420-313 and 420-317; Corequisite: 420-334 The learner develops advanced CNC lathe programming skills by applying linear interpolation, tool nose compensation, canned cycles, and auto-chamfer/radius functions to meet precise blueprint specifications. Learners demonstrate proficiency by generating accurate G-code to execute complex turning, drilling, and finishing operations essential for modern manufacturing environments.
Course #: 420-336
Title: CNC Lathe Programming
Credits: 1
Prerequisites/Comments: 420-312 and 420-313 and 420-317; Corequisite: 420-334 The learner develops advanced CNC lathe programming skills by applying linear interpolation, tool nose compensation, canned cycles, and auto-chamfer/radius functions to meet precise blueprint specifications. Learners demonstrate proficiency by generating accurate G-code to execute complex turning, drilling, and finishing operations essential for modern manufacturing environments.
420-337 Manufacturing Job Skills 1   The learner develops a professional identity by documenting academic, employment, and career-related achievements essential to the machine tool industry. Learners prepare a comprehensive job-seeking toolkit, including targeted resumes, manufacturing-specific cover letters, and formal correspondence. By compiling an organized portfolio that highlights technical equipment skills and core competencies, the learner demonstrates readiness for professional interviews and successful entry into the manufacturing workforce.
Course #: 420-337
Title: Manufacturing Job Skills
Credits: 1
Prerequisites/Comments:   The learner develops a professional identity by documenting academic, employment, and career-related achievements essential to the machine tool industry. Learners prepare a comprehensive job-seeking toolkit, including targeted resumes, manufacturing-specific cover letters, and formal correspondence. By compiling an organized portfolio that highlights technical equipment skills and core competencies, the learner demonstrates readiness for professional interviews and successful entry into the manufacturing workforce.
420-341 Materials for Machinists 2 420-312 and 420-313 and 420-317 During this course individuals will learn the terminology relating to the mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of materials used for Machine Tooling Technics. Materials covered will be the classification of steel, cast iron, aluminum, copper, and polymers.
Course #: 420-341
Title: Materials for Machinists
Credits: 2
Prerequisites/Comments: 420-312 and 420-313 and 420-317 During this course individuals will learn the terminology relating to the mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of materials used for Machine Tooling Technics. Materials covered will be the classification of steel, cast iron, aluminum, copper, and polymers.
420-357 GD&T 1 420-316 The learner applies coordinate metrology principles and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) to verify manufacturing precision. This course focuses on performing CMM start-up procedures, establishing part alignments, and measuring geometric features. Learners demonstrate competence by interpreting feature control frames and evaluating material conditions to ensure parts meet rigorous design specifications.
Course #: 420-357
Title: GD&T
Credits: 1
Prerequisites/Comments: 420-316 The learner applies coordinate metrology principles and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) to verify manufacturing precision. This course focuses on performing CMM start-up procedures, establishing part alignments, and measuring geometric features. Learners demonstrate competence by interpreting feature control frames and evaluating material conditions to ensure parts meet rigorous design specifications.
  Total Credits: 15  
Total Credits: 15

Course Title

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Course Description

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Minimum Program Credits Required: 29

2.0 Minimum Program Cumulative GPA Required for Graduation
If a student does not enroll in any courses at CVTC for two or more consecutive semesters, the student will be required to reapply with Admissions. Students must abide by any changes in admission requirements and degree requirements.

Updated: 1/26/2026 12:00 a.m.  |  Printed: 6/13/2026 4:38 p.m.

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