Precision Machining

Campuses

Clarkesville

Credentials Offered

Associate Degree
Diploma
Certificate

Program Length

2-5 Semesters

TUITION-FREE ELIGIBLE

This department has programs that are eligible for 100% tuition coverage. 

Academic Programs > Industrial Technology > Precision Machining

Precision Machining (CNC)

Precision Machining careers pay well, have excellent long-term employment prospects, and offer interesting machining work that is in high demand.

NGTC’s Precision Machining & Manufacturing Technology program teaches the technical and professional skills necessary to program and operate advanced machining equipment. 

Beginning students learn hand-operation techniques before advancing to the use of design software and CNC machines. Precision Machining graduates are in high demand, as are graduates from related advanced programs such as Tool and Die Specialist or Applied Technical Management.

Courses in the program include: 

  • CNC Mill Manual & Lathe Manual Programming
  • Lathe Operations
  • CAD/CAM Programming
  • Print Reading for Machine Tool

Credentials You Can Earn

Associate Degree

Applied Technical Management Degree

The AAS in Applied Technical Management allows a student to complete a diploma in a Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) program area and to continue to this degree. In addition to the skills and knowledge obtained in the diploma, the student will obtain degree-level general education knowledge and business-related skills and knowledge. Graduates of the program receive an Applied Technical Management Associate of Applied Science degree.

Diploma

The CNC Technology program is a sequence of courses that prepares students for careers in the Computer Numerical Controls (CNC) technology field. Learning opportunities develop academic, technical, and professional knowledge and skills for job acquisition, retention, and advancement. The program emphasizes a combination of CNC theory and practical application necessary for successful employment. Program graduates receive a CNC Technology diploma and have the qualification of a CNC technician.

Certificates

NGTC‘s CNC program offers 4 certificates for those who want to specialize in a particular area or to refresh the skills they may already have:

  • CNC Specialist Certificate:  The CNC Specialist certificate program provides training for graduates to gain employment as CNC machine tool technicians. Topics include CNC fundamentals, mill and lathe manual programming, CNC practical applications, and CAD/CAM programming. The program emphasizes a combination of CNC theory and practical application necessary for successful employment.
  • Lathe Operator Certificate:  The Lathe Operator certificate program prepares students to use lathes, lathe set up, and lathe tool grinding. Emphasis is placed on cutting threads, boring holes to precise measurements, and cutting tapers. Topics include an introduction to machine tool technology, blueprint reading for machine tool, and basic and advanced lathe operations.
  • Mill Operator Certificate:  The Mill Operator certificate program prepares students to effectively operate milling machinery. Students become proficient in blueprint reading, general mathematical operations, and are provided the necessary knowledge and skills to obtain employment as a milling machinist.
  • Tool and Die Specialist Certificate:  The Tool and Die Specialist certificate program provides students advanced study in machine tool technology to prepare students to become tool and die specialists. Program objectives are to provide a sequence of advanced courses in the area of Tool and Die and to provide advanced training for employees in the machine tool industry.

Career Opportunities

Students completing the program may choose career paths in:

CNC Specialist

Lathe Operator

Mill Operator

Tool and Die Specialist

Graduates of the CNC/Machining program may work in a variety of areas including:

Machine Shops

Toolrooms

Manufacturing facilities

Additional career options can be researched on the following site(s):

Meet the Faculty

Photo of Shannon Gary Shannon Gary Precision Machining and Manufacturing Instructor 706-754-7753
Photo of Derrick Hogan Derrick Hogan Precision Machining and Manufacturing Instructor 706-754-7754

The Precision Machining & Manufacturing Programs are a great fit for those who enjoy technology but also like to create and build things with their hands.

Updated: January 2, 2024 - CARES, CRRSAA, ARP & SSARPView the CARES Act, CRRSA & ARP Information and Covid-19 Guidance