CNC Machining and Manufacturing Technology Diploma Program in Grand Prairie
Do you like working with your hands and solving problems? The CNC Machining and Manufacturing Diploma Program at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ’s Grand Prairie campus can prepare you for a career in the growing field of modern manufacturing in Texas1. With your training, you learn how to program and operate precision machines that help create parts for aerospace, automotive, medical, and other industries and gain the skills Texas employers look for.
Ready to build a better future? Enroll in the CNC Machining and Manufacturing Diploma Program at our Grand Prairie, TX campus today.
CNC Machining and Manufacturing Diploma Program Delivery
Day, afternoon and evening programs are available. Hands-on instruction is provided on-campus, with some courses delivered online. Ï㽶ÊÓƵ also utilizes animations and simulations so you can experience interactive learning that enhances skill development, reinforces concepts, and allows you to practice troubleshooting in a risk-free environment.
CNC Machining and Manufacturing Diploma Program Length
- Total Semester Credit Hours: 35
- Instructional Hours: 900
- Completion Time: Approximately 40 weeks
CNC Machining and Manufacturing Diploma Program Classes and Curriculum
Developed in collaboration with industry professionals, the Ï㽶ÊÓƵ academic approach ensures that our programs align with current employer requirements and technological advancements. Combining theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on training, your courses are designed to provide you with entry-level CNC machining and manufacturing knowledge and skills. You train with real equipment used in the field and learn to read blueprints, set up lathes and mills, write basic CNC programs, measure parts with precision tools, and safely operate both manual and automated machinery. You also learn invaluable skills in professionalism, customer service, and career success.
CNC Machining and Manufacturing Program Objective
- Read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
- Use manual and automated machines to shape raw materials.
- Set up and operate CNC mills and lathes.
- Write and edit G and M code for CNC programming.
- Perform precise measurements using micrometers and calipers.
- Maintain quality control and production standards.
- Adhere to safety procedures and protocols for manufacturing environments.
- Demonstrate professionalism, time management, and communication skills.
- Prepare for credentials.
CNC Machining and Manufacturing Diploma Career Outcomes
As a graduate of the CNC Machining and Manufacturing Diploma Program in Grand Prairie, you may find entry-level jobs at:
- Aerospace and defense manufacturing companies
- Automotive parts production
- Tool and die shops
- Medical device production
- Industrial fabrication companies
CNC Machining and Manufacturing Career Opportunities in TX
Ï㽶ÊÓƵ’s Grand Prairie campus is located in a hub for high-tech manufacturing and precision machining. Local employers support industries like aerospace, defense, transportation, and medical devices—and they need skilled CNC professionals. Our team works with area manufacturers and machine shops to help students connect with job opportunities after graduation. Students and graduates of the program may qualify to work at a variety of area companies, including May Day Manufacturing, K&N Engineer and others2.
CNC Machining and Manufacturing Technology — Grand Prairie
CMMT100D — Diploma Program
CIP Code: 48.0510
SOC Code: 51-9161
Day, Afternoon, Evening Ï㽶ÊÓƵ
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 35.0 |
|---|---|
| Instructional Hours | 900 |
| Weeks to Complete — Day | Approximately 40 weeks (including holidays and scheduled breaks) |
| Weeks to Complete — Afternoon | Approximately 40 weeks (including holidays and scheduled breaks) |
| Weeks to Complete — Evening | Approximately 40 weeks (including holidays and scheduled breaks) |
Program Objective
A strong domestic manufacturing base is vital to the United States economy, as manufactured goods are necessary for trade. The term manufacturing is very broad and includes the use of machine tools required to manufacture finished products. These products can range from an array of plastics to wood and metals. Manufacturers use sophisticated turning and milling machines, grinders, and computerized numerical control (CNC) machines to bring products from concept design to reality. The CNC Machining and Manufacturing Technology program prepares students for entry-level positions as CNC Operators or Set-up Technicians within a Modern Manufacturing facility. Students will learn about the fundamental skills needed for the operation and setup of complex manufacturing machines that utilize turning, milling and multi-axis machining technology. Students will be prepared to qualify for credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) in the areas of Materials, Measurement and Safety, Job Planning, Bench work and Layout, CNC Milling (setup and programming), CNC Turning (setup and programming), CNC Operator - Turning, and CNC Operator - Milling. Students will be required to complete out-of-class assignments in each course.
Foundation Courses
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Lecture Hours 60 Lab / Shop Hours 30 Internship Hours 0 Total Hours 90 Total Credits 3.5 Prerequisites None Course Description
The overall goal of this course is to facilitate a smooth transition to school by engaging the student in curriculum focusing on academic, career, and life skills. Students will make connections with key personnel within the school that will assist with their questions and provide guidance throughout their education. The student will be introduced to modern manufacturing techniques, industry certifications, and job opportunities. Students will learn essential skills involved in Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining. Emphasis will be placed on safety, equipment, fundamentals of machining, and the proper use of measurement tools used in CNC machining. The machining content will be balanced by an emphasis on skills that will enable students to be successful in school and in life. These skills will include time management, financial management, goal setting, learning strategies, career planning, and critical thinking strategies. Students will also complete instructional activities to prepare them for credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). An emphasis will be placed on all mathematical computations critical to the machining industry. Students will also learn the proper operation of the Machinist Calculator to determine precise and accurate calculations for tolerance, positioning, quality control, and machine setup.
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Lecture Hours 30 Lab / Shop Hours 60 Internship Hours 0 Total Hours 90 Total Credits 3.5 Prerequisites None Course Description
This course prepares students to understand technical information when reading manufacturing blueprints. Emphasis is placed on locating geometry to create tool paths. Students will learn how to use Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) when determining specifications and how to properly calculate tool paths using standard mechanical blueprints. They will also learn to use information located in the title block to calculate acceptable tolerances for part features and determine suitable feeds and speeds for a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) program using Machinist Calculator Pro. Students will also study the proper use of semi-precision and precision measuring tools and how to read dial, digital, and vernier measuring scales for precision measuring requirements. Students will learn how to calibrate, maintain, and apply the use of precision measuring tools to obtain accurate measurements. Students will also complete instructional activities designed to prepare them for obtaining their level one Materials Measurement and Safety credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
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Lecture Hours 30 Lab / Shop Hours 60 Internship Hours 0 Total Hours 90 Total Credits 3.5 Prerequisites None
Course Description
The content of this course will provide students with an understanding of the fundamentals of the machining process. An emphasis is placed on the safety procedures that apply to machining, manufacturing processes, and general safety that applies to industrial manufacturing operations. Students will explore the manual machining procedures that include cutting, drilling, milling, and turning. Students will also use hand tools to prepare a semi-precision layout that will demonstrate their ability in job planning, bench work, and job layout. Students will reinforce their measurement and blueprint reading skills by producing precision parts on manual metalworking machines. In addition, students will be given instruction in the types of materials used in machining. Students will learn the procedures used for hand tools, cutting, drilling, milling, and turning and will apply those procedures on manual milling and turning machines. Students will use precision and semi-precision measuring instruments to complete their projects. Students will also engage in instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining their level one Job Planning, Bench work & Layout credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
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Lecture Hours 30 Lab / Shop Hours 60 Internship Hours 0 Total Hours 90 Total Credits 3.5 Prerequisites MT101, MT102
Course Description
Students will learn to program, set-up, and operate Computer Numerical Control (CNC) milling equipment. Students will receive instruction in machine motion, mill control panels, machine startup, and operations. Topics include programming formats, control functions, program editing, part production, and inspection. Students will manufacture simple parts using CNC milling equipment and will gain the experience of performing quality control inspections before, during, and after CNC operations. Students will complete instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining two credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) in CNC Milling (set-up and programming) and CNC Operator - Milling.
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Lecture Hours 30 Lab / Shop Hours 60 Internship Hours 0 Total Hours 90 Total Credits 3.5 Prerequisites MT101, MT102
Course Description
Students will learn the programming, setup, and operation of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) lathes and turning centers. Students will receive instruction in machine motion, lathe control panel, machine startup and operations. Topics include programming formats, control functions, program editing, part production, and inspection. Students will manufacture simple parts using CNC turning centers and will perform quality control and inspections before, during, and after CNC operations. Students will complete instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining two credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) in CNC Turning (setup and programming) and CNC Operator - Turning.
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Lecture Hours 30 Lab / Shop Hours 60 Internship Hours 0 Total Hours 90 Total Credits 3.5 Prerequisites MT101, MT102, MT104
Course Description
This course teaches students the integration of Computer-Aided-Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided-Manufacturing (CAM) with a concentration in milling machines. It is a study of modern machining methods and teaches the use of software in creating geometry for milling parts. Students will use CAM software to strategize and create parts that will be machined on a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machining Center. Students will then use software to create tool paths from 2D and 3D geometry.
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Lecture Hours 30 Lab / Shop Hours 60 Internship Hours 0 Total Hours 90 Total Credits 3.5 Prerequisites MT101,MT102, MT105
Course Description
This course teaches students the integration of Computer-Aided-Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided-Manufacturing (CAM) with a concentration on turning machines. It is a study of modern machining methods and teaches the use of software in creating geometry for turning parts. Students use CAM software to strategies and create tool paths that will be machined on a CNC turning centers. Students will use software to create tool paths from 2D and 3D geometry.
Ï㽶ÊÓƵ
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Lecture Hours 30 Lab / Shop Hours 60 Internship Hours 0 Total Hours 90 Total Credits 3.5 Prerequisites MT101, MT102, MT104, MT106
Course Description
With an emphasis on modern milling, drilling, and workholding processes, students in this course will also learn about high-speed machining in modern manufacturing. Students will learn the advantages of using the International System of Units (IS unit) instead of the English measurement system and their grasp of English to Metric conversion will be reinforced. Students will learn about climb milling and conventional milling on Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines. Students will receive instruction on the types, accuracy, and proper care of tool holders for manufacturing machines, working toward a mastery of the different types of CNC Milling Centers, their components, and the advantages of each. Students will perform projects using the latest technology in CNC milling, tooling, and cutting tools. Students will also understand how to use modern cutting tools for complex projects. Students will also learn how to utilize different types of machine controls using simulated labs and equipment.
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Lecture Hours 30 Lab / Shop Hours 60 Internship Hours 0 Total Hours 90 Total Credits 3.5 Prerequisites MT101, MT102, MT104, MT105, MT106, MT107, MT108
Course Description
Students will learn about advanced multi-axis machining. Applying advanced Computer-Aided-Manufacturing (CAM) features and concepts used in modern manufacturing industries. Students will learn how to properly manufacture complex parts. Students will work on complex manufacturing projects that will demonstrate competency in advanced machining concepts. Students will also complete instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining their Associate Level Certification in Mill, Lathe, and Multi-axis Machining. This Mastercam certification serves to demonstrate that students have the ability to program and cut quality parts.
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Lecture Hours 30 Lab / Shop Hours 60 Internship Hours 0 Total Hours 90 Total Credits 3.5 Prerequisites MT101, MT102, MT104, MT105, MT106, MT107,MT108
Course Description
Nearing completion of their program, students in this course will apply all of the skills and knowledge gained in previous classes in a simulated workplace environment. Students will apply their skills in equipment operation, programming, blueprint interpretation, machine set-up, safety, and advanced multi-axis machining techniques. By the end of this course, students will be competent in the application of essential skills necessary for the manufacturing of complex parts using computer-aided manufacturing software.
Students spend the majority of their time working in a simulated workplace environment working through a series of assignments. They are evaluated on the quality and accuracy of their work as well as the time taken to work through their assignments.
Notes:
Course numbers are for reference only. The sequence of course offerings may vary depending on scheduling needs. Maximum Time Frame (MTF) 52.5 Credits.
*Mode of Delivery: Residential, Blended Learning or Online are the methods we may use to deliver content in each course. The Residential courses are offered on ground at the campus. Blended courses are offered by delivering a fraction of the course in an online format as well as traditional face to face method. Online courses are delivered 100% online. The Blended delivery and online delivery plan will implement distance education activities into each course in the program of study. The use of simulations, case studies, assessments and multimedia will be used to enhance the students understanding of the learning objectives outlined in the course syllabus.
1 O*Net Online , retrieved April 3, 2025.
2 These companies have hired one or more 2021 – 2024 Lincoln graduates to work in their field of study.
The listing of credits is not meant to imply that credits can be transferred into college or other private career school programs. Transfer credits are at the sole discretion of the receiving school.