Student working on CNC machine in a shop

Program Explorer

CNC Machinist Technician

Perfect precision parts and prepare for a career as a computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinist or general machinist.

Set up and operate CNC and manual metal cutting machines, interpret engineering drawings, apply geometric dimensioning and use CAD software.

In this program, you will learn how to properly set up and operate equipment, including manual milling machines, lathes and CNC machining and turning centers. You’ll also learn how to verify components, interpret engineering drawings and use basic computer-aided design (CAD) software.

  • Program Type
    Full-time
  • Credential
    Certificate
  • Program Delivery
    In-person
  • In-person Location
    Notre Dame Campus
  • Intake
    Fall
  • Program Length
    1 year
  • Total Tuition / Fees for Courses
    $6,500 – $7,200
  • How to Enrol
    Application required
  • Application Type
    Direct entry
  • Indigenous Pathway
    Program pathway available to Indigenous learners
  • International Program
    Open to students from around the globe

Experience a Polytechnic Education

Full-time Delivery: Something New Every Term

In this program, you will learn essential CNC machining and production skills. After completing this program, you can choose to advance your education and career potential through the CNC Machining and Advanced Technology diploma program.

TERM 1

Explore the foundations of CNC machining, learn to safely set up and operate manual machines and produce parts using engineering drawings.

TERM 2

Use manual programming to operate CNC machines and explore production processes. Finish this certificate program with the option to enter the CNC Machining and Advanced Technology program.

Employment Potential

Prepare yourself for career success

Potential Grad CAREERS

  • Machinist
  • Machine operator
  • Manual machinist
  • CNC machinist
  • Machining apprentice

AFFILIATIONS AND ACCREDITATIONS

What to Expect in This Program

Get Prepared for the Future of Work

Excel with practical learning and experienced instructors, all focused on your success. With an employer-driven education, you won’t just be ready for a career – you’ll be prepared to stay in front of what’s ahead.

Instructor showing student how to work CNC machine
Build practical skills with the help of passionate, industry-experienced instructors using various equipment, including manual mills.
Instructor showing student milled piece of metal
Build practical work experience by fabricating and inspecting parts made on industry-standard equipment, including CNC turning centres and manual mills.
Student working on CNC machine
Learn to set up and operate CNC machining centres and produce essential parts for a variety of industries.
Student working on CNC machine
Build the in-depth knowledge and versatile training needed to ensure quality and perform inspections using various tools and equipment.
Student working on computer in a computer lab
Use computer-aided design (CAD) software to draft and manufacture innovative products in our machine shop.
Two people in a CNC lab with one holding a piece of metal
Work with classmate students to solve real-world challenges and develop crucial collaboration and communication skills.

Graduate Success

As an RRC Polytech student, you will build the versatile skills and in-depth knowledge you need to enhance your employment potential and achieve your career goals. CNC Machinist Technician graduates pursue careers that explore all aspects of the trade and take them across industries, from entry-level machine operation to quality assurance.

The statistics below represent the opinions and employment statuses of this program’s recent grads. They were retrieved from the 2019-2020 RRC Polytech Graduate Satisfaction and Employment Report.

Student working on CNC machine

$38K – AVERAGE NEW GRAD SALARY

Our mission is to give you the experiential learning and practical work experience you need to succeed and make a difference from day one. Through the CNC Machinist Technician program, you’ll learn to use state-of-the-art equipment and produce projects to the same standards as industry experts.

100% – RECOMMEND PROGRAM TO OTHERS

RRC Polytech courses prepare you for a career right after graduation. Small class sizes give you the opportunity for practical learning and frequent, meaningful discussion, helping you build crucial collaboration skills with peers and instructors.

Student working on CNC machine
Instructor showing student how to operate CNC machine

100% – CONSIDER INSTRUCTORS KNOWLEDGEABLE

RRC Polytech instructors are passionate about sharing their knowledge and encourage students to explore and innovate across all aspects of the field. They bring a diverse range of industry experience and work with employers to ensure your education is up-to-date, engaging and practical.

Photo of Jesus Bojorquez

“Because of the knowledge I acquired at RRC Polytech, my supervisor always moves me from one area to another to another. I’m one of the few people that knows every single side of the department.”

Jesus Bojorquez – Assistant Operator
Winpak Ltd.
Photo of Don Fletcher

“My education at RRC Polytech laid the groundwork upon which I was able to tackle a diverse range of career choices, building complimentary skills that all led to my ‘Eureka’ moment.”

Don Fletcher – Inventor
Nice Trim Fit

Who Should Enrol?

Turn your talents into academic success

As a CNC Machinist Technician program student, you are interested in mechanical equipment, solving dynamic challenges and creating new items with your hands. You have good manual dexterity and eyesight (with corrected vision if required) and can stand for long periods.

Students that excel in this program often share these interests, skills and personality traits.

PERSONALITY TRAITS

  • Detail-oriented
  • Logical thinker
  • Practical
  • Results-oriented
  • Technical thinker

SKILLS

  • Instruction following
  • Listening
  • Mathematics
  • Problem solving
  • Troubleshooting

INTERESTS

  • Coding
  • Drawing
  • Metal working
  • CNC
  • Manufacturing

All the Information You Need

MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION

Woman sitting in computer lab

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Ensure signup goes smoothly and understand program requirements before registering. Review required documents and procedures to make sure you’re prepared to enter this program.

Exterior of RRC Polytech building

LOCATION, DATES AND FEES

Start planning with peace of mind and get the information you need on one easy-to-find page. Review start dates, locations, book and equipment costs and program fees.

Woman standing on stairs holding certificate

SCHOLARSHIPS

Celebrate and motivate your learning. Whether you’ve sprinted through the first term or just received your acceptance letter, find a variety of bursaries, scholarships and awards.

Person browsing the RRC Polytech website

OTHER INFORMATION

Explore our Catalogue for more detailed information, including a program outline, course descriptions and everything you’ll need to plan and prepare for your future success.

Exterior of RRC Polytech building

DATES AND FEES

Start preparing with peace of mind. View information about courses and sections, including locations, delivery methods and costs. It only takes minutes to register and further your future.

Students outside in a courtyard

LIST OF COURSES

Plan out your preferred learning journey. Review a summary of this program’s courses to discover what you’ll learn and how an RRC Polytech education will help your career.

Woman sitting in computer lab

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Ensure signup goes smoothly and understand program requirements before registering. Review required documents and procedures to make sure you’re prepared to enter this program.

Person browsing the RRC Polytech website

OTHER INFORMATION

Explore our Catalogue for more detailed information, including a program outline, course descriptions and everything you’ll need to plan and prepare for your future success.

Begin Your Journey

Get Started with RRC Polytech

Start Your Application

Your future is within reach, and we’re here to help you achieve it. Experience industry-focused opportunities available at RRC Polytech and develop the knowledge and skills to grow, lead and excel in your future career.

Funding Your Education

Support yourself while pursuing your RRC Polytech education. You may be eligible for loans, grants and scholarships to help tackle your financial needs.

Future Student Events

Explore our upcoming information sessions and events to learn more about our programs and to get your questions answered.

RRC Polytech campuses are located on the lands of Anishinaabe, Ininiwak, Anishininew, Dakota, and Dené, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

We recognize and honour Treaty 3 Territory Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, the source of Winnipeg’s clean drinking water. In addition, we acknowledge Treaty Territories which provide us with access to electricity we use in both our personal and professional lives.

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