Machining & Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
Manufacturing across the country is changing and creating many high-paying opportunities for trained, highly-skilled individuals. The LISD TECH Center teaches manual and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining – where the most job openings and best earnings potential are available. Successful students are often recruited for employment prior to graduation. Some companies offer students full employee benefits and opportunities for apprenticeships including college tuition reimbursement.
Program Description
The Machining & Computer Aided Manufacturing program teaches students how to work in today’s advanced manufacturing facilities, to operate manual machine tools, and to operate/program Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines such as the machining center, turning center, and surface grinder. Students will learn machine shop safety, industrial blueprint reading, related math, precision measurement, and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM). Some basic welding and fabrication is included in the curriculum.
To Be Successful
Successful students in this program have good math skills, are comfortable with technology, pay attention to detail, are mechanically inclined, enjoy working with their hands, are good problem-solvers, and are self-motivated. Math is an important element of the program as students produce work that must meet precise measurements.
Student Organizations
SkillsUSA
FIRST Robotics
Program Success Indicators
Academic
- Read and understand decimal numbers to four decimal places
- Read and understand whole numbers and fractions
- Read a ruler and measure to within 1/32 of an inch
- Have a fundamental understanding of geometry and right angle trigonometry
- Use charts and technical manuals as tools to complete lab projects
- Have exposure to computer-based design software
- Manage time effectively to ensure projects are completed to meet deadlines
Interpersonal
- Take pride in working hard to solve problems and complete lab projects accurately
- Work independently on minds-on, hands-on lab projects
- Pay close attention to various details and follow written and verbal instructions
- Clean and maintain a safe work area
- Have patience and persistence in order to complete detailed lab projects
- Attend class consistently to have adequate time in the lab to complete all required projects
- Work beside other students without becoming a distraction or being distracted
- Prepared to learn new skills or improve skills each day
Program Specific
- Use fine motor skills to operate machinery
- Apply academic principles learned in the classroom in an industrial lab
- Ask questions and seek advice when unsure of proper procedures
- Being mechanically inclined is important
- Maintain focus to ensure all safety procedures and machining processes are closely followed
- Be able to look and listen closely in order to analyze machining operations
- Work without being distracted in a noisy environment
- In order to participate in FIRST Robotics, be prepared to attend class outside of normal school hours
Related Careers
Note: Additional education may be required.
- Machinist
- CNC Machinist/Programmer
- Tool and Die Maker
- Mold Maker
- Tooling Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Industrial Engineer
- Manufacturing Engineer
High School Credit*
*The LISD TECH Center recommends the academic credit listed. Credit can only be awarded by local districts. The academic credit listed below is for completion of 2 years.
- 1.0 3rd Science (in lieu of)
- 1.0 World Languages (in lieu of)
- 1.0 Visual, Performing, & Applied Arts
- 1.0 4th Math
College Credit Opportunities*
*College credit can only be awarded by the college or university. Certain requirements must be met outside of completing the program.
- Davenport University
- Ferris State University
- Jackson College
- Siena Heights University
Certification Opportunities
Jackson Area Manufacturers Association’s (JAMA) Academy for Manufacturing Careers**
** Successful students may earn credit waivers for related apprenticeship courses.
Instructor
Al Constable, a former Sand Creek and LISD TECH Center student, started his career as a tool and die apprentice and completed his coursework at Jackson Community College. After working in the tool and die field for thirteen years, Al earned his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Michigan University. He began his tenure at the TECH Center as an Advisory Committee member in 1988 before becoming the instructor in 2001.
Teacher Assistant
Cody Oard comes to the LISD from the machining industry. Cody has worked at Uniloy on CNC Turning Centers, Eagle Machining as a CNC Operator, GB Manufacturing as tool room for maintenance, as well as TJ Automation working on 2 Axis Manual Mills. In his spare time he enjoys watching hockey, football, and dirt racing.
