PRECISION MACHINING
Instructor, Joseph Cowan
Course Description
Without a doubt, there is not an industry that could exist without a machine shop. From the smallest auto repair to the giant G-M industry, machine shop is the key to their 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, Precision Machining is for you!
This course is designed to teach 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.
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 Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine tool
operators is constantly growing. With the expansion in 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.
This program is also available for adults.
See Intergenerational Programs