Machine Tool Technology
El Camino’s Machine Tool Technology degree and certificate programs sets you on track to work in machine shops, tool rooms, and instrument and experimental laboratories right after graduation. They’re accessible, affordable paths to a rewarding, in-demand career.
Our Machine Tool Technology Associate in Science (AS) degree typically takes two years. Or complete a certificate in just one year.
Hands-on machine tool technology education at El Camino will challenge you to be your best. We’ll be here to help.
Choose a Degree Designed to Prepare You for a Job
Most El Camino machine tool technology students want to start their careers as soon as possible. We provide the training and skills you need to be successful.
Machine Tool Technology Associate in Science (AS) Degree
This degree prepares you for employment in machine shops, tool rooms, and instrument and experimental laboratories. Customize your education and choose the pathway that best suits your interests.
- Choose from two degree options:
- Machinist
- Numerical Control Programmer
- Practice skill standards established by the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
- Train on computer numerical control (CNC) lathes, CNC milling machines, and computer aided manufacturing systems.
- Learn to set up and operate drilling machines, lathes, mills, grinders, and electrical discharge machines.
Certificates
Prepare for employment as a machinist in machine shops, tool rooms, and instrument and experimental laboratories.
- Gain an introduction to engineering drawings and specifications used in manufacturing industries.
- Train on Computer Numerical Control (CNC) lathes, CNC milling machines, and computer aided manufacturing systems.
- Practice skill standards established by the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
- Learn to set up and operate drilling machines, lathes, mills, grinders, and electrical discharge machines.
Prepare for employment as a CNC machine operator. Pursue jobs in machine shops, tool rooms, and instrument and experimental laboratories.
- Gain an introduction to principles and operation of conventional and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine tools.
- Classes emphasize safety, measurement, hand tools, power saws, drilling machines, lathes, and milling and grinding machines.
- Practice skill standards established by the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
Prepare for employment as a numerical control programmer. Pursue jobs in machine shops, tool rooms, and instrument and experimental laboratories.
- Gain an introduction to engineering drawings and specifications used in manufacturing industries.
- Study Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programming with emphasis on contouring, canned cycles, cutter diameter compensation, looping, macro subroutines and multiple-part programming for three-axis milling machines and CNC lathes.
- Practice skill standards established by the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
Pursue an Entry-Level Job in Machine Tool Technology
After graduation, you may enter the industry as an advanced apprentice machinist or machine operator. We’re here to help you identify career options and decide on the best step after graduation.
- Work in a broad range of job positions in the South Bay area from manufacturing to aerospace.
- Pursue opportunities for advancement to machinist, tool and die maker, experimental machinist, or numerical control programmer.
- Careers associated with this program have a salary range from $21,000 to $71,000 with an average salary of $36,000.
Participate in Academic and Career Opportunities
Take your education outside of the classroom. El Camino has apprenticeship opportunities and connections with industries that translate into valuable real-world experience.
- Participate in a free, pre-apprenticeship program complete with fees, books and supplies provided at no cost.
- Earn a CNC Certificate of Achievement after completing the program.
- Take advantage of an internship or paraprofessional opportunity.
- Expand your networking and attend conferences and exhibitions.
Academic Details
Learn about course requirements and more for the Machine Tool Technology AS degree in El Camino’s online catalog.
Machine Tool Technology Program Map
Find semester-by-semester plans that chart your path to a Machine Tool Technology AS degree or Machinist, CNC Machine Operator, or Numerical Control Programmer certificates on El Camino’s Guided Pathways site.
Contact Info
Machine Tool Technology