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CNC Machining and Tool-Making Technology

Program Overview

The CNC Machining and Tool-Making Technology program prepares you for a variety of CNC careers.

During your first year, you will gain basic machining knowledge and skills using manual and CNC machines, computer-aided drafting (CAD) and computer-aided machining (CAM) programming, lathes, mills, and electrical-discharge machines (EDMs). After completing your first year, you can earn a diploma in CNC Machining Technology, a certificate as a CNC Machine Operator, or a certificate as a CNC Machine Set-Up Specialist.

During your second year, gain hands-on experience in tool-making, die building, mold making, jig and fixture building, tool room machining, and basic design skills. You are also introduced to manual and coordinate measuring machine (CMM) inspection. You will earn an Associate of Applied Science degree.

Hands-On Learning Opportunities

  • CNC Lab: Use the latest equipment in the industry as you learn and perfect your skills on various type of CNC and production manufacturing machines.

  • Virtual CNC: Practice and gain confidence in your programming skills of CNC machines, mills, and lathes of the most widely used brands.

Transfer Information

An articulation agreement allows you to transfer your CNC Machining and Tool-Making Technology coursework to the Manufacturing Technology and Technology Management programs at the University of Northern Iowa.

If you plan to transfer, work closely with a program advisor to ensure courses transfer and you meet program requirements.

Careers

Positions

Graduates find employment working in a variety of positions including:

  • Tool and die maker
  • CNC machinist
  • CNC machine operator
  • CNC set-up specialist

Example Careers and Average Wages
Entry Average Experienced
Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Operators $31,700 $41,300 $46,100
Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers $35,000 $50,400 $58,200
Machinists $31,500 $40,400 $44,900
Tool and Die Makers $39,500 $50,200 $55,600

Source: 2020 Iowa Wage Report, Iowa Workforce Development

Many graduates in this field work overtime. Overtime wages are not included in the above average wages.

Employers

The following is a partial list of employers who have hired graduates from this program:
Business Location
Accurate Gear & Machine, Inc. Waterloo, IA
Blackhawk Engineering, Inc. Cedar Falls, IA
Criterion Manufacturing Waterloo, IA
Geater Machining & Manufacturing, Co. Independence, IA
GMT Corporation Waverly, IA
Hawkeye Tool and Die Jesup, IA
Iowa Laser Technology Cedar Falls, IA
John Deere Waterloo, IA
Viking Pump, Inc. Cedar Falls, IA

Admissions Requirements

Step #1: Apply at Hawkeye

  1. Complete Hawkeye's online admissions application to apply and be considered for the CNC Machining and Tool-Making Technology program.

  2. Request to have your transcripts sent to the Admissions office.

Step #2: Basic Skill Competencies

In order to be eligible for the CNC Machining and Tool-Making Technology program, all students must meet minimum score requirements and/or successfully complete the required college success courses in English, reading, and math with a "C" grade or higher at Hawkeye Community College or comparable courses at another accredited college. For appropriate college success course placement, work with your program advisor.

Minimum score requirements
ACT ACCUPLACER COMPASS ACCUPLACER Next Generation
16 Reading 58 Reading 69 Reading 239 Reading
13 English 42 Sentence Skills 20 Writing 229 Writing
14 Math 40 Arithmetic 24 Pre-Algebra 240 Arithmetic
241 Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics

Step #3: Program Acceptance

Applicants meeting the Basic Skill Competencies Requirements criteria are eligible for acceptance.

Applicants not meeting the Basic Skill Competencies Requirements criteria will be accepted to a Pre-Program. As a pre-program student, you will begin with general education and prerequisite classes. An advisor will help you create an academic plan to meet your program admission requirements. Once you have completed your pre-program coursework contact Admissions.

Equal Opportunity Statement

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