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 ISO 9001:2000
(SRS Reg. #5065-01)

 

PRECISION MACHINING         

Instructor, Joseph Cowan

Course Description

Welcome to Precision Machining Technology.  Without a doubt, there is not an industry that could exist without a Machine Shop.  From the smallest auto repair to the giant GM industry, the machine shop is their key to success.

If you enjoy working with your hands as well as your mind; if you enjoy seeing a finished product made from rough material; if you get that feeling of pride which comes from a job well done; then Precision Machining is the program for you!

This course is designed to teach you the basic entry-level skills that allow you to enter into the vast area of machine work or prepare you to further your education in a trade/technical school or college.

The purpose of the Precision Machining program at the GACTC is to teach entry-level skills according to business and industry standards to youth and adults alike in preparation for the world of work or to further their education in a trade or technical school.  These include not only hands-on skills but work ethic traits such as attitude, appearance, cooperation, respect, character, teamwork, organization, communication, and productivity.

Prerequisites:  Applied Math (including Algebra Concepts), Computer Literacy, Good mechanical ability

Course of Study:

First Year Second Year Third Year
Machine Shop Occupations
Shop Safety
Measurement and measurement system
Measuring with rules, calipers, squares, surface plates
Measuring with micrometers
Layout work--basic layout tools
Bench work--hand tools, using hacksaws     and files
Job planning--machine procedures for various projects
Power saws--basic use and operations
Drill press--types of drill presses
Engine lathes--basic use and operation, types and construction
Cutting tools and holders
Set up for machine between centers

 

 Milling machines--their uses and attachments
Milling cutters and processes
Mounting and removing arbors and cutters
Cutting speeds and feeds
Grining machines--types and uses
Abrasives
Measuring--Vernier calipers and fixed gauges
Cutting fluids--types and uses		 Metals--manufacture of iron and steel
Properties, composition & identification of metals
Heat treatment of steel
Special processes
E.D.M.--electric discharge machining
Computer Numerical Control machining, programming, and powder metallurgy

Appropriate Occupations

  • Machine Tool Operator

  • Machinist

  • Tool and Die Maker

  • Set-Up Man

  • Layout Man

  • Technician

  • Millwright

  • Machine Programmer

  • CNC Operator

Job Outlook
The demand for machine tool operators and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) operators is constantly growing.  With the expansion into the computer-controlled machinery by industry, constant need for qualified people is present.

Further Education Opportunities
Community colleges and trade schools enhance the background of the student. With further training, more technical job opportunities become available.

Most industries will credit you as a full two-year apprentice upon successful completion of this Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center program of study.

Machining is a requirement for many engineering degrees in college.

Trade and technical schools will credit GACTC time toward their programs and award advanced standing.

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This program is also available for adults.
See Intergenerational Programs