High School
High school courses in computer science, algebra, geometry, and English provide the basics needed to become a CNC programmer. More specific courses in blueprint reading, drafting, and computer-aided design are also useful. In addition, shop classes in metalworking can provide an understanding of machinery operations.
Postsecondary Training
Employers prefer to hire skilled machinists or tool operators to work as CNC programmers. Workers are usually trained through formal apprenticeships or postsecondary programs, or informally on the job. Apprenticeship programs usually last four years and include training in machine operations, program writing, computer-aided design and manufacturing, and analysis of drawings and design data. Classes include blueprint reading and drawing, machine tools, industrial mathematics, computers, and operation and maintenance of CNC machines.
Formal apprentice programs are becoming rare as more programmers receive training through community or technical colleges. Associate's degrees are available in areas such as manufacturing technology and automated manufacturing systems. Typical classes include machine shop, numerical control fundamentals, technical mechanics, advanced NC programming, introduction to robotic technology, and computer-assisted manufacturing.
For specialized types of programming, such as in aerospace or shipbuilding, employers often require a four-year degree in engineering in addition to technical skills and work experience.
Certification
Certificate programs are available in numerical control tool programming, manufacturing technology, artificial intelligence, and related areas. They are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats, and they typically last six months to a year. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.
Other Education or Training
The Precision Machined Products Association offers webinars and other continuing education (CE) opportunities. Visit https://www.pmpa.org/webinar-library for more information. The Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (https://www.fmamfg.org) also offers CE classes,
- 3-D Printing Specialists
- Advanced Manufacturing Engineers
- Advanced Manufacturing Technicians
- Apparel Industry Workers
- Automation Engineers
- Automotive Industry Workers
- Bindery Workers
- Bioenergy/Biofuels Workers
- Biofuels Processing Technicians
- Biofuels Production Managers
- Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
- Biomass Plant Technicians
- Biomass Power Plant Managers
- Biotechnology Production Workers
- Boilermakers and Mechanics
- Business Managers
- Ceramics Engineers
- Chemical Engineers
- Chemical Technicians
- Chemists
- Chief Robotics Officer
- Computer-Aided Design Drafters and Technicians
- Continuous Improvement Managers
- Coremakers
- Corporate Climate Strategists
- Cost Estimators
- Diesel Mechanics
- Drafters
- Drone Manufacturing Workers
- Electronics Engineering Technicians
- Electroplating Workers
- Engineering Technicians
- Engineers
- Ethical Sourcing Officer
- Fluid Power Technicians
- Forge Shop Workers
- Furniture Designers
- Furniture Manufacturing Workers
- Futurists
- Glass Manufacturing Workers
- Green Products Manufacturers
- Heat Treaters
- Industrial Chemicals Workers
- Industrial Designers
- Industrial Ecologists
- Industrial Engineering Technicians
- Industrial Engineers
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics
- Industrial Radiographers
- Industrial Safety and Health Technicians
- Industrial Traffic Managers
- Instrumentation Technicians
- Internet of Things Developers
- Job and Die Setters
- Laboratory Testing Technicians
- Laser Technicians
- Layout Workers
- Leather Tanning and Finishing Workers
- Logging Industry Workers
- Logistics Analysts
- Logistics Engineers
- Manufacturing Engineering Technologists
- Manufacturing Engineers
- Manufacturing Production Technicians
- Manufacturing Supervisors
- Materials Engineers
- Mechanical Engineering Technicians
- Mechanical Engineers
- Metallurgical Engineers
- Metallurgical Technicians
- Microelectronics Technicians
- Millwrights
- Molders
- Non-Destructive Testing Specialists
- Occupational Safety and Health Workers
- Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians
- Optical Engineers
- Optics Technicians
- Packaging Engineers
- Packaging Machinery Technicians
- Paper Processing Workers
- Pharmaceutical Industry Workers
- Plastics Products Manufacturing Workers
- Precision Machinists
- Precision Metalworkers
- Prepress Workers
- Product Designers
- Product Development Directors
- Product Management Directors
- Product Managers
- Quality Control Engineers
- Quality Control Technicians
- Radio Frequency Engineers
- Remote Health Care Engineers
- Robotics Engineers
- Robotics Integrators
- Robotics Technicians
- Rubber Goods Production Workers
- Sales Managers
- Sales Representatives
- Semiconductor Technicians
- Sheet Metal Workers
- Silverware Artisans and Workers
- Sporting Goods Production Workers
- Stationary Engineers
- Steel Industry Workers
- Supply Chain Managers
- Textile Manufacturing Workers
- Tire Technicians
- Tobacco Products Industry Workers
- Toy Industry Workers
- Traffic Managers
- Welders and Welding Technicians
- Wood Science and Technology Workers