Products of a modern industry contain a variety of precision parts. The highly skilled professionals who make these parts are called machinists. The expectation of a machinist is to be able to make accurate parts using precision layout, measuring/gauging tools, and to remove material with the aid of machine tools. Some of the basic machine tools operated by a machinist include the engine lathe, drill press, grinder, horizontal and vertical mill, and computer numerical controlled (CNC) machining and turning center. Students can have a challenging career as a Machinist that utilizes their mechanical aptitude and computer skills to machine precise metal parts using manual and CNC machines in Machine Tool Technology.
The average class size in the Sheridan College Machine Tool Program is between 12 and 14 students per class/lab. This allows the instructor to work closely with each student so he or she can develop the skills necessary to become successfully employed in the trade. Summer paid internships are available and encouraged for state-of-the-Art machining experiences.
Upon completion of the certificate program, the student can find employment in the trade as an entry level worker with a starting salary range between eight and ten dollars per hour. In order to be promoted in the trade, the worker would need additional training and work experience.
The student who completes the Associate of Applied Science degree will have the knowledge and skills to acquire employment in the trade as an entry level machinist or CNC operator/ programmer with a starting salary between ten and fourteen dollars per hour. With additional training and work experience, the machinist and CNC programmer/ operator could earn between 40 and 60 thousand dollars per year depending on location. Those choosing to continue their education to earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering, drafting, or manufacturing could earn significantly higher salaries.
For more information about the exciting and creative field of Machine Tool Technology & Sheridan College, contact Admissions.