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CNC Machining

CampusStart DateTuition/Fees
MonctonSeptember 2025 (Blended Delivery)
 
Domestic | International

Program Overview

High-tech CNC machines have revolutionized the manufacturing industry. And at the controls of those machines are highly skilled CNC machinists. Imagine starting with a solid block of metal and transforming it into a precisely made working part for anything from a bicycle to an advanced fighter jet. CNC machinists enjoy a dynamic combination of digital and physical work that makes each day interesting and rewarding.
 
In our CNC Machining program, you’ll learn the skills needed to bring design ideas to life. We’ll teach you how to program, set-up, troubleshoot, and operate advanced machine tools so that you’re ready to become a valuable member of any industrial engineering team when you graduate. The manufacturing industry will continue to advance technologically, and as it does, the demand for skilled CNC machinists who know how to use machine technology to create new things will also grow. Enroll today to pursue an exciting career on the cutting-edge of manufacturing.


Duration

The requirements for this diploma program may be achieved within two years of full-time study.
 


Admission Requirements

    Profile A

  • High School Diploma or Adult High School Diploma or GED Diploma of High School Equivalency or Essential Skills Achievement Pathway: Post-Secondary Entry High School Diploma

    NB Francophone High School Math Equivalencies
    International Student Admission Equivalencies

      Advanced Placement

    • Students may be admitted directly into the second year of this program upon successful completion of one of the following criteria: 1 year Machinist or Tool and Die training program, or Block I of the Machinist or CNC Machinist Apprenticeship program.



       
    If you are applying with advanced placement/standing please contact us at registrar.services@nbcc.ca for additional information regarding the application process.


    Career Possibilities

    CNC Machining graduates start as apprentices, filling vital computerized manufacturing roles in New Brunswick, throughout the region and around the world. Machine operators cut metal into machined parts, and as their experience level grows, so does their value. Many operators transition to being in charge of setting up CNC machines for various production processes and making changes to the machine’s controller. CNC operators can also advance their careers by becoming CNC programmers who create the code that tells the CNC systems how to make the part.
     
    Another path includes Industrial engineering and manufacturing technologists and technicians, who may work independently or provide technical support and services in the development of production methods, facilities and systems, and the planning, estimating, measuring and scheduling of work.



    Specific Considerations

    This program is an apprenticeable occupation in New Brunswick. Upon successful completion of the program, students will receive a diploma and will have the opportunity to challenge two apprenticeship blocks toward their CNC Machinist license. Students who choose to exit after the first year will be eligible to receive a Machinist certificate and will have an opportunity to challenge Block 1.

    Technology Requirements
    ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë is a connected learning environment. All programs require a minimum specification, including access to the internet and a laptop. Your computer should meet your program technology requirements to ensure the software required for your program operates effectively. Free wifi is provided on all campuses.


    Areas of Study

    • Workplace Safety Practices
    • Layout and Benchwork
    • Mathematics
    • Lathes
    • Saws and Drill Presses
    • Milling Machines
    • Grinders
    • Welding
    • Blueprint Reading
    • CNC Software
    • Machine Tool Theory
    • Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing
    • Communication and Human Relations
    • Jigs and Fixtures
    • Metallurgy
    • Computerized Programming
    • Coordinate Measuring Machine
    • Machining Centre
    • Turning Centre
    • Work Practicum


    Program Courses

    Courses are subject to change.

    This course provides learners with an understanding of the basics of metallurgy. Instruction includes identification and selection criteria of materials, inspection and testing procedures, and heat treatment methods.
     

    The purpose of this course is to refresh skills in mathematics developed through secondary programs in areas deemed essential for the successful completion of the program. Although the topics covered in this course are common to any math program, every effort is made to illustrate their usage in the trades’ professions.

    In this course, the students are presented with a balance of theoretical mathematics and applied mathematics. Instructional emphasis is focussed on the information, principles and formulas required to perform trade related mathematical calculations.

    Prerequisites:

    • MATH1269A

    This course helps learners develop knowledge in geometry, algebra, and trigonometry as they pertain to a Computerized Numerically Controlled (CNC) manufacturing environment.
     

    Prerequisites:

    • MATH1269A
    • MATH1270A

    This course familiarizes learners with Computerized Numerically Controlled (CNC) associated technology.

    This course provides learners with an overview of machining centers, their configuration, components, and accessories. Learners acquire hands-on experience and an introduction to programming, setting up, and operating machining centers.
     

    Prerequisites:

    • META1146A
    • META1155A

    Learners are equipped to identify lathe components, accessories, and tooling. They learn to grind cutting tools and carry out basic lathe operations according to appropriate safety standards.
     

    This course provides instruction into the types and characteristics of drill presses as well as the tooling and processes typically performed on them.
     
     

    Learners acquire the knowledge and abilities to set up and operate cut-off saws and contour band saws.
     

    Learners are introduced to basic vertical and horizontal milling setups and operational procedures. They will perform basic mill operations commonly required in most machine shops.
     

    This course introduces learners to abrasive machining processes. They learn characteristics of modern abrasives as well as the basic operations of off-hand, surface, and cylindrical grinding.
     

    In this course learners gain proficiency in the techniques used to perform more complex lathe operations through practice.
     

    Prerequisites:

    • META1154A

    Learners gain theoretical knowledge and practical experience in the techniques used to perform advanced lathe operations.

    Prerequisites:

    • META1148A

    Learners gain proficiency in the techniques used to perform more complex vertical and horizontal milling setups and operational procedures through practice.
     

    This course provides learners with an overview of turning centers, their configuration, components, and accessories. Learners acquire hands-on experience and an introduction to programming, setting up, and operating turning centers.
     

    Prerequisites:

    • META1146A
    • META1153A

    Learners apply set-up and operation techniques through the completion of increasingly complicated projects. They also learn to troubleshoot and modify supplied programs created with CAD/CAM software.
     

    Prerequisites:

    • META1147A

    This course provides learners with hands-on experience in programming and operating CNC turning centers, using basic and complex functions to produce both external and internal part geometry.
     

    Prerequisites:

    • META1156B

    This course provides learners with the skills necessary to design and produce workholding devices.
     

    In this course, learners complete a capstone project, developing abilities essential to function in the machining industry, such as teamwork, job planning, problem-solving, time management, and process optimization. A capstone project allows the learner to integrate and apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout the duration of the program.
     

    This course enhances learners' knowledge in the areas of cutting tool selection and troubleshooting.

    Prerequisites:

    • META1154A

    This course provides an introduction to the meaning of community service.  Students learn how community service can enhance a student’s educational experience, personal growth, employability, and civic responsibility. Students participate in one day of volunteering to enhance their understanding of civic responsibility and to help the New Brunswick Community College realize its vision of transforming lives and communities.

    In this course, learners focus on applying communication skills in reading, writing, speaking, document use, and critical thinking to make communication effective and efficient while developing computer-related skills necessary to be successful in college and on the job in a trade.

     

    In this course, learners focus on acquiring job search skills to gain a work-term placement as well as employment while also, developing interpersonal communication skills needed to grow their career.
     

    The purpose of the practicum is to provide learners with a direct, supervised practical experience. Such an experience enables learners to apply the knowledge acquired during their training directly to their field of study. The practicum exposes the learners to the trade environment and participants are expected to become members of the team in the industry site to which they are attached.

    This course will provide learners with the ability to interpret industrial drawings and produce freehand sketches.
     

    This course introduces learners to Computer-Aided Manufacturing software. Learners create part geometry and toolpaths, generate milling and turning programs, and set up and run their programs on machines.
     

    Prerequisites:

    • SAAL1875A
    • META1147A
    • META1156B

    In this course, learners measure parts using high precision measuring tools, including Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM).
     

    Prerequisites:

    • TOFO1017A

    This course provides learners with fundamental software applications and file management techniques necessary in a CNC manufacturing environment, along with an introduction to ComputerAided Design (CAD).
     

    A safe and healthy workplace is the responsibility of the employer and the employee. This course introduces students to the importance of working safely and addresses how employers and employees can control the hazards and risks associated with the workplace. Students will also learn about the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders including WorkSafeNB, the employer and the employee in ensuring workplaces are safe.

    This course introduces students to the safe use of rigging, hoisting and lifting equipment.

    Prerequisites:

      This course is designed to familiarize learners with types of measurement, layout, and bench tooling. They learn techniques enabling them to accurately lay out basic projects and perform bench tasks typical to the machinist trade.
       

      Upon completion of this course, learners develop the ability to interpret production drawings that utilize geometric dimensioning and tolerancing. Learners also set up and perform basic functions on a coordinate measuring machine.

      Prerequisites:

      • PRLP1104A

      This course introduces learners to basic cutting and arc welding operations. Safe practices and use of oxy-acetylene and electric-arc welding equipment are emphasized.
       


      NOC Codes

      22302 - Industrial engineering and manufacturing technologists and technicians
      94105 - Metalworking and forging machine operators
      94106 - Machining tool operators


      Articulation Agreements

      Institution: University of New Brunswick Saint John - Faculty of Business
      Information: Bachelor of Applied Management Degree
      ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë graduates of any 2 year diploma program with a GPA of 70% or greater receive 2 years full credit toward this degree and will be eligible to enter year 3 of the 4 year Bachelor of Applied Management (BAM) program.


       


      Disclaimer: This web copy provides guidance to prospective students, applicants, current students, faculty and staff. Although advice is readily available on request, the responsibility for program selection ultimately rests with the student. Programs, admission requirements and other related information is subject to change.