The Career
Machinists use machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines and machining centers to produce precision metal parts. Although they may make large quantities of one part, precision machinists often produce small batches or one-of-a-kind items. They use their knowledge of the working properties of metals and their skill with machine tools to plan and carry out the operations needed to make machined products that meet precise specifications.
Professional Traits
Those pursuing a career in precision machining technology should:
- Be mechanically inclined
- Have good problem-solving abilities
- Be able to work independently
- Be able to do highly accurate work
Employment and Salary Information
Per the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2012, the average wage for machinists was $19.65 per hour. Manufacturing industries employing the largest number of machinists* were:
- Machine shops
- Turned product and screw, nut and bolt manufacturing
- Metalworking machinery
- Employment services
- Motor vehicle parts manufacturing
- Aerospace product and parts manufacturing
The Program
The Precision Machining Technology program is offered at the ECC site in Washington (Four Rivers Career Center). Designed in conjunction with the region’s extensive machine tool industry, students learn the latest processes of manufacturing and machining from faculty who have worked in the field. Students study in laboratories with state-of-the-art machining equipment including a Wire EDM machine.
Students explore coursework leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree or certificate intended to prepare them to enter the workforce. Assuming appropriate placement scores, a full-time student can expect to complete each of the certificate tracks in the time frames indicated below:
- Certificate of Specialization: 12 months
- Certificate of Achievement: 18 months
- CNC Certificate of Achievement: 18 months
A consortium of the leading local companies in the field work with educators at ECC and Four Rivers Career Center to design a program that fits the needs of students and employers. Students are well prepared to enter the workforce, and employers know that graduates of the program are trained and dependable.
Admissions Requirements
To enter the program, students must have completed:
- High school diploma or the equivalent (documentation must be sent to the registration office)
- Application for admission
- A placement test as specified by the college (some coursework requires minimum placement results)
Students must also be able to demonstrate basic computer skills.
Additional Program Information
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC)
Code 51-4041.00, 51-4122.00, 51-4121.06
Tuition and Required Fees
Certificate of Specialization:
$2,820 (In District); $3,750 (Out of District)
Certificate of Achievement:
$4,136 (In District); $5,500 (Out of District)
CNC Certificate of Achievement:
$3,102 (In District); $4,125 (Out of District)
Books and Supplies
$817.26
Other Fees and Expenses
Certificate of Specialization: $459
Certificate of Achievement: $618
CNC Certificate of Achievement: $484
Job Placement Rate
Certificate of Specialization: 100 percent
Certificate of Achievement: 100 percent
Accreditation
East Central College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2400
Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504
800621-7440
Contacts
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Program Location
ECC-Washington
Located at the Four Rivers Career Center
1978 Image Drive
Washington, MO 63090
636-239-0598
Program Faculty
Curtis Elliott, Program Coordinator
636-239-0598
clelliott@eastcentral.edu
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Donna Wilkinson
636-239-0598
djlipsey@eastcentral.edu
Division
Mathematics and Physical Science
636-584-6773
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