How much does a CNC machinist make?

According to Salary.com, the average annual salary of a CNC Machinist in the United States is $52,920.

What is a CNC machinist? What do CNC machinists do?

A CNC Machinist operates and programs machine tools such as lathes, mills, and grinders that are controlled by a computer to produce precision metal or plastic parts.

What is advanced manufacturing?

According to Manufacturing.org, advanced manufacturing refers to the use of innovative technologies to create new and existing products. 

Does this course prepare you for a certification?

No.

What specific skills will I learn in this advanced manufacturing training?

A few of the specific advanced manufacturing skills you learn in this include: precision measurement, CNC Programming, machine maintenance, and tool setting and calibration.

Does the course include a focus on quality control and process improvement techniques?

Yes, this course has one lesson on Lean and one lesson on Quality. The lessons focus on ISO 9001, customer-focused quality, lean manufacturing, and Six Sigma.

How is advanced manufacturing different from traditional manufacturing, and does the course cover these differences?

Traditional Manufacturing

• Definition: Uses manual or semi-automated tools like lathes, mills, and drills operated by human workers.
• CNC Relation: Little or no use of CNC (Computer Numerical Control); most operations rely on manual setups and hand-guided machining.
• Efficiency: Slower, less precise, and more labor-intensive.
• Customization: Difficult and time-consuming to switch between different part designs.

Advanced Manufacturing

• Definition: Uses technology-driven processes like CNC machining, robotics, automation, and smart software to enhance production.
• CNC Relation: Heavy reliance on CNC machines that are computer-controlled, ensuring high precision and repeatability.
• Efficiency: Faster, more consistent, less waste, and ideal for complex or high-volume parts.
• Customization: Easy to reprogram CNCs for different parts with minimal downtime.

A simple example with CNC machining and making a metal gear:

Traditional Manufacturing:

• A machinist manually sets up a lathe.
• Measures and cuts by hand.
• Risk of small errors.
• Takes maybe an hour to make one gear.

Advanced Manufacturing with CNC:

• A CNC machine is programmed with a CAD file.
• Automatically cuts the gear to exact specs.
• Identical gears can be made in minutes with near-zero error.
• Can switch to a different gear design just by loading a new program.

How will this course prepare me for a specific role in advanced manufacturing?

This CNC machinist training prepares you for entry-level advanced manufacturing roles, such as CNC operator and CNC machinist.

Does this course cover current trends in manufacturing, such as automation, IoT, or sustainable manufacturing practices?

Yes, this course covers the advanced manufacturing topics of CNC on a Fanuc Mill and Lathe, Hass Mill and Lathe, Mazak Mill and Lathe.

How will this course help me meet the qualifications for entry-level roles in advanced manufacturing?

This course will prepare you for an entry-level role as a CNC operator or CNC machinist.

How can I use the skills learned here to qualify for more advanced manufacturing courses or programs?

This course serves as a foundational steppingstone towards advanced studies, equipping you with the essential skills and knowledge required to pursue a career as a CNC programmer or lead machinist within the dynamic field of advanced manufacturing.

How long does it take to complete this course?

After you register, you will receive 12 months to complete the course. The time allotted for completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours.

What hardware is included?

The course includes the Meta Quest 3 headset with the two controllers, a carrying case, and the Elite Strap.

What should I do if I encounter technical difficulties while using VR?

If there are issues with the simulations, you can contact a student advisor and/or access the VR Help Center in the Learning Management System, which includes documentation, videos, and guides to assist with any issues.

If there are any issues with the hardware, you should contact Meta for assistance.

Do I need any prior experience with VR technology to take this course?

You do not need to have any prior experience with VR technology to take the course. However, if you do not have any experience with VR, we have a Virtual Reality Navigator, a comprehensive guide with tutorials, games, glossary, and best practices in the virtual world.

Do I have to return the headset and accessories once I complete the course?

You do not have to return the headset and accessories once you complete the course, it is included in the cost of this program.

What are the benefits of using VR in learning?

Using virtual reality in learning has many benefits. Here is a link to a document summarizing the many benefits.

Will all the course content be delivered through VR, or just certain parts?

For this course, only the 10 labs/simulations are delivered through virtual reality. However, there is an option to complete the simulations on the web.

Can I participate without a VR headset, or is it mandatory?

You have the option of completing the labs in a web browser (Chrome recommended)

What are the minimum system requirements for my computer/device to run the VR content?

• Mobile App: Android and Apple
• Network bandwidth: A broadband internet connection is required for larger images, audio, video, interactive components, and Virtual Labs.
• Screen resolution: The minimum screen resolution recommended is 1024 x 768 pixel
• Ram: 8 GB is the minimum recommendation
• Graphic Card: Not required but will increase performance of Virtual Labs

Is the VR experience compatible with all VR platforms (Oculus, HTC Vive, etc.)?

This particular VR experience is only compatible with Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest 3.

How do I set up the VR equipment for the course? Will there be technical support?

Technical support is provided through the robust Hemp Center available in the Learning Management Systems.

What if I experience motion sickness or discomfort while using VR? Are there accommodations for that?

If you experience motion sickness or discomfort while using VR, there is an option to complete the labs in a web browser (Chrome recommended).

Is there a specific platform or app I need to download to access the VR content?

To access the VR content, you will need to download a specific app from the Meta Quest store. The information for this will be provided upon enrollment.

How do I interact with instructors and other students in the VR environment?

There is no interaction with instructors and other students in the VR environment.

Is there a way to practice or familiarize myself with the VR setup before the course begins?

We have a Virtual Reality Navigator, a comprehensive guide with tutorials, games, glossary, and best practices in the virtual world that can help you get started.

What happens if my VR equipment breaks or malfunctions? Will I be penalized for missed coursework?

You have the option of completing the labs using virtual reality or web-based simulations. If the VR equipment breaks or malfunctions, you can complete the labs using the web-based versions.

When can I start this course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course whenever you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

What if I don't have enough time to complete the course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What kind of support will I receive?

Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successfully passing the final exam, you will be awarded a certificate of completion from the school or organization that you registered through.

Am I guaranteed a job?

ed2go courses will help you gain the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. However, you should always research the job market in your area before enrolling.

Can I get financial assistance?

ed2go courses are non-credit, so they do not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA, and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards may provide funding to take our courses. Additionally, you may qualify for financial assistance if you meet certain requirements. Learn more about financial assistance.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-877-221-5151 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us."