If you’re looking for more information on CNC training, or just trying to figure out what “CNC” even stands for, this article should help you out. We’ll start with a basic definition of CNC and then move on to flesh out what it is, how it works, and how and where to receive CNC training.
What does CNC stand for?
CNC: Computer Numerical Control
CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. CNC refers to the process by which a machine converts a plan, usually a Computer Assisted Design (CAD) into a part.
The CAD is the design for a new part; CNC is the method the machine uses to create that part.
Thus, a CNC machine uses an instruction program to cut, drill, or shape a piece of material to meet certain specifications, without human operation.
Practical applications of CNC
In practicality, CNC automates the production of precision engineered tools and parts. Rather than manually inputting parameters, a CNC machine renders a CAD plan accurately down to the smallest measurement and detail.
Many different machine-shop tools can use CNC. Metal lathes, mills, Electronic Discharge Machines (EDMs) and machine drills can all be CNC-capable.
As a result, some machine shops can be run with very little human input, at least in the actual operation of the different machines.
What kind of career can CNC training give me?
With appropriate education, a CNC machinist can program and operate nearly any CNC-based machine. This versatility means that a wide variety of jobs are possible for anyone with the right training and credentials.
Common uses
The most common uses of CNC jobs come in manufacturing and aerospace industries. These companies manufacture highly intricate, complex machines with numerous parts, all requiring precise measurements.
The most accurate way to achieve those exact specifications is through CNC-equipped machines. CNC operators are not simply responsible for running those machines or overseeing them, but often for designing the CNC programs for new parts.
CNC operations are not only found in large-scale manufacturing plants, but also in small-scale machine shops. Any company that has a machinist shop or department to make, maintain, repair, or replace tools and parts may need a CNC-trained machinist.
As CNC-capable machines become more advanced and older manual or mechanical-type machines become obsolete, the need for trained operators will only grow.
Typical job descriptions
What are some of the capabilities most companies require of a CNC-trained candidate? Below are just some of the most common responses:
- Understanding and creating accurate assembly instructions and procedures
- Capable information-gathering for new parts and new procedures
- Careful inspection of parts and machines
- Troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
- Knowledge of mathematics and/or engineering
- Welding and soldering
- Basic computer skills
This list is by no means exhaustive, but gives a quick overview of what many companies expect from their CNC operators. Beyond those skills, good communication is a must. A CNC machinist needs to be able to understand what his clients or coworkers need from a particular plan or part, and produce something that meets those requirements.
While the above descriptions give a good general idea of what many companies look for, there are often some more technical qualifications necessary.
Technical Qualifications
Some countries, like the U.K., require apprenticeships before someone can graduate to a full-time CNC operator. The U.S. has no such requirements, but nearly all CNC trainees are required to work for several years as assistants before becoming full-fledged CNC operators.
Why is CNC training so challenging? It’s because the field requires the successful integration of a number of different skills. A CNC operator needs to understand basic mathematics, and then move on to basic engineering principles.
He also needs to know various manufacturing functions, from measuring devices to the characteristics and qualities of the many metals and alloys he will encounter on a daily basis.
Then, on top of that information, a good CNC operator will add a knowledge of the CNC machine-shop tools and the programming knowledge necessary to write the coded instructions for those tools. If it sounds like a complicated knowledge base, it certainly is.
Career Opportunities
With such complicated requirements, why pursue a CNC career at all? Two major benefits may tempt you. First, there is a growing demand for dedicated, qualified, skilled CNC operators. With such a wide range of applications for the skill, there are nearly always jobs to be had from manufacturing to heavy industry, to specialised machine shops and aerospace engineering.
That demands leads to the second major benefit: the salary. According to figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for CNC operators, in 2018, was $40,070. Some states were much higher – the median salary for operators in Washington state, for instance, was over $64,000. That’s just the median salary – individuals may find much lower rates, but of course the best operators may also find much higher rates also.
Where can I receive CNC education?
How do you even begin to get the training necessary to become a CNC operator? There are numerous, probably countless programs online that offer CNC certificates or awards. Some of those programs are well-run and detailed. But apart from the online options, there are generally two time-honored methods for learning CNC operations.
Academic path
First off is the academic option. Many two-year community and technical colleges offer associate degrees with CNC training, whether those are dedicated degrees or more general engineering programs. Those tech school courses can be expensive, but the basic information they provide can also be immensely valuable, particularly when coupled with practical training as part of the course. For some people, often those who are looking at CNC training as a new career path or a change of course, the costs associated with the academic option can be prohibitive. Fortunately, there is another choice.
Practical path
One of the best ways to learn CNC operation is to start working with CNC machines. This means looking for a job in which you’ll be exposed to CNC operations, and either becoming an assistant or just learning by observation and practice. The major benefit of the practical method is the experience you’ll gain – learning the various machines and processes from the ground up, and adding the CNC programming experience under a trained expert. If you opt for this method, start applying to engineering divisions or machine shops – anything to get your foot in the door and get you started along the path.
Resources
There are a number of tech and community schools that offer CNC programs. Here are a few of the better-rated ones, though this list is by no means exhaustive. Inquire at the nearest tech school to see if they have a program that would work for you.
- Rochester Institute of Technology (Rochester, NY)
- Ferris State University (Big Rapids, MI)
- Colorado Mesa University (Grand Junction, CO)
- Naugatuck Valley Community College (Waterbury, CT)
- Bates Technical College (Tacoma, WA)
There are a number of online resources available. While not training programs exactly, these may be helpful for people looking to expand their knowledge of CNC methods and techniques. Below is one of the biggest of these sites – there are many more to be found on the web.
- CNC Resources – a general compilation of CNC articles, blogs posts, etc. https://www.cnccookbook.com/cnc-resources/.