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Printed on 5/20/2026

Machining Technician New

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31-420-11 Technical Diploma (TD) 28 Credits Financial Aid Pending Location*: Appleton

*If general education courses are required, they may be available at multiple locations. 

The Machining Technician Technical Diploma prepares students for entry-level careers in precision manufacturing and metalworking industries. This hands-on program provides comprehensive training in both manual and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining processes, emphasizing safety and accuracy.

COURSE LIST

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Course list for reference only. Current students please refer to your individualized program plan or see your advisor.
**Outside effort hours are an estimate based on state standards, and may vary from person to person.

    Occupational Specific (24 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Early College Credit Options
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • Related Welding
    10-442-120
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 10442120
    • Credits: 1.00

    Prepares students with the common techniques and procedures for SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and FCAW welding in a repair or machine shop environment. Topics include welding metal, cutting metal with plasma and oxy-fuel, and metal identification. Laboratory activities will provide the student with hands-on practice.

  • Machining Essentials
    32-420-302
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 32420302
    • Credits: 2.00

    Equips beginning machinists with essential skills in machine shop safety, basic measurement, and layout techniques in this introductory course. Students will learn to safely operate in a machining environment, accurately measure parts using common precision tools, and perform basic layout procedures for machining operations.

  • Bits to Blades: Essential Cutting Tools
    32-420-303
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 32420303
    • Credits: 2.00

    Introduces students to the safe and effective use of drill presses and saws in a machine shop environment in this hands-on course. Emphasize understanding speeds and feeds, performing drill press operations, and executing sawing techniques for various materials. Provide practical experience in setup and operation of these machines.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • METALS 32420302 - Machining Essentials
  • Machining Geometry & CNC Foundations
    32-420-304
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 32420304
    • Credits: 2.00

    Expand your skills in layout and drilling operations using modern equipment in this advanced-level course. Gain hands-on experience with waterjet cutting systems and 2-axis Computer Numerical Control (CNC) mills while learning to apply advanced layout techniques and precision drilling in both manual and CNC environments.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • METALS 32420303 - Bits to Blades: Essential Cutting Tools
  • Manual Mill Essentials
    32-420-305
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 32420305
    • Credits: 2.00

    Explore the operation and application of manual milling machines in this foundational course. Through hands-on training, students will learn the principles of milling operations, understand speeds and feeds, and perform basic milling tasks. Emphasis is placed on safety, precision, and proper machine setup to build confidence and competence in manual machining.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • METALS 32420304 - Machining Geometry & CNC Foundations
  • CNC Milling Essentials
    32-420-306
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 32420306
    • Credits: 2.00

    Introduces students to Computer Numerical Control (CNC) milling machines in this comprehensive course, focusing on the essential skills needed to operate and inspect parts using a 3-axis CNC mill. Students will learn to safely and efficiently run CNC mills, including tool setup, offset management, probing techniques, program loading, and part inspection.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • METALS 32420305 - Manual Mill Essentials
  • Manufacturing Techniques, Cold
    32-420-314
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 32420314
    • Credits: 1.00

    Focuses on the manufacturing processes not necessarily done in a machine shop and covers techniques performed on materials in a cold state. Topics include cold-working metals, metal stamping and forming in presses, recent techniques in metalworking, and polishing and finishing of metal surfaces.

  • Manual Lathe Essentials
    32-420-316
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 32420316
    • Credits: 2.00

    Introduces students to manual lathes in this comprehensive course, focusing on the essential skills needed to safely operate and produce precision parts using conventional turning equipment. Students will learn to set up and run manual lathes, including workholding techniques, tool setup, speed and feed calculations, and outside diameter (OD) turning operations.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • METALS 32420306 - CNC Milling Essentials
  • CNC Lathe Essentials
    32-420-317
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 32420317
    • Credits: 2.00

    Introduces students to Computer Numerical Control (CNC) turning centers in this comprehensive course, focusing on the essential skills needed to operate and inspect parts using a 2-axis CNC lathe. Learn to safely and efficiently operate CNC lathes, including tool setup, offset management, program loading, and part inspection.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • METALS 32420316 - Manual Lathe Essentials
  • Intermediate Manual Lathes
    32-420-318
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 32420318
    • Credits: 2.00

    Build on foundational lathe skills and explore intermediate operations, including internal diameter (ID) turning and threading techniques in this course. Students will learn to safely and accurately perform internal machining, cut threads to specification, and apply precision measurement practices. Emphasis is placed on proper tool selection, setup, and process planning for complex lathe operations.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • METALS 32420317 - CNC Lathe Essentials
  • Intermediate Manual Mills
    32-420-319
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 32420319
    • Credits: 2.00

    Advance foundational milling skills by mastering intermediate manual milling operations, including carbide tooling applications, horizontal milling setups, and broaching techniques. Students will learn to select and use carbide cutters for improved performance, set up and operate horizontal mills, and perform broaching.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • METALS 32420318 - Intermediate Manual Lathes
  • Inspection Essentials
    32-420-320
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 32420320
    • Credits: 2.00

    Introduces students to the critical skills and tools required for precision inspection in machining. Students will learn how to use a variety of gages, perform in-process inspections, and operate a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) to verify part accuracy. Emphasis is placed on understanding tolerances, documenting results, and applying inspection techniques that ensure quality throughout the machining process.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • METALS 32420319 - Intermediate Manual Mills
  • Introduction to CAD/CAM
    32-420-321
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 32420321
    • Credits: 1.00

    Discover the power of digital manufacturing by learning the fundamentals of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM). This course introduces students to creating 2D and 3D part models, generating CNC toolpaths, and producing G-code for milling and turning operations. Emphasis is placed on integrating design and machining processes to prepare students for modern CNC workflows.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • METALS 32420306 - CNC Milling Essentials

    • METALS 32420350 - Blueprint Reading, Basic-MTO
  • Blueprint Reading, Basic-MTO
    32-420-350
    1Credit
    36
    18

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 32420350
    • Credits: 1.00

    Focuses on the interpretation of machine drawings. Students study isometric and orthographic views on drawing and develop simple working drawings. Topics include dimensions, internal and external threads, holes, bores, fillets, radii, surfaces, planes, metric and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.

    Occupational Supportive (4 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Early College Credit Options
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • Math for the Trades
    31-804-307
    2Credit
    72
    36

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 31804307
    • Credits: 2.00

    Focuses on the math skills needed for various trades. Topics include arithmetic fundamentals, percent and proportion applications, the metric system, conversions, practical geometry, measurement applications, signed numbers and formula evaluation. Micrometer, equation solving and standard rule measurement units are included as needed. Scientific calculator use is introduced as needed.

  • Workplace Reality
    31-890-307
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 31890307
    • Credits: 2.00

    Focuses on developing skills in interpersonal communication, teamwork and meeting practical workplace requirements. Topics include quality control, team building, statistical process control, report writing, interview and report writing skills, diversity, problem solving, conflict resolution and OSHA requirements.

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Expected Competencies

For more information visit our Credit For Prior Learning page.
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Eligible Dual Credit Course

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.


  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.
  • Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

Process:

As part of the annual course planning, students and families should meet with their High School Guidance Counselor to discuss future college and career goals. This conversation will help identify Dual Credit courses that best align with specific pathways.

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Recommended Start College Now Course

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

×

Eligible Dual Credit & Recommended Start College Now Course:

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.

  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.

**Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

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N/A

This course is not available for Dual Credit or Start College Now due to factors such as course rigor, necessary equipment, and prerequisite requirements.