How to Become a CNC Machinist in Michigan

As CNC machines continue to advance in efficiency, capacity, and complexity, the role of CNC machinists capable of operating and troubleshooting these machines has never been more critical. For this reason, these professionals are experiencing incredibly high demand in various states, including Michigan.

We have provided the comprehensive guide below to help familiarize aspiring CNC machinists in Michigan with the steps involved in becoming a practicing CNC machinist in the state.

We have also included other crucial information, such as the possible certification and licensing requirements, potential salary, and a few top training programs in the state to consider.

How to Become a CNC Machinist in Michigan

The following are the steps involved in becoming a CNC machinist in Michigan:

Basic General Requirements

As an aspiring CNC machinist in Michigan, you are expected to fulfill a few basic requirements, one of which is to have a high school diploma or GED.

A solid foundation in mathematics, geometry, and algebra will also go a long way to prepare you for the courses you will be studying in a CNC machinist training program.

CNC Machinist Training Programs

Combining CNC academic training (offered by colleges and trade schools) with on-the-job training (provided by apprenticeship programs and employers) is possible and usually the best option for striking the perfect balance between classroom and hands-on training.

This can be achieved, for instance, by graduating from a 4-month CNC certificate program and applying for an apprenticeship opportunity before seeking employment.

Some academic programs also link with on-the-job training programs so students can access both methods directly.

Seeking Employment

CNC machinists in Michigan may begin their job search by preparing resumes and applying to suitable organizations. We look below at the highest-paying cities for CNC machinists in Michigan and possible certification alternatives.

Career Advancement

Along with certification, CNC machinists in Michigan may advance their careers by joining professional organizations and participating in continuing education programs. They may also choose to specialize in specific sub-fields in CNC machine technology.

Explore other trades with similar paths:

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State Licensure and Certification Requirements

CNC machinists do not have to obtain a statewide or citywide license in Michigan. They don’t have to obtain certification, but doing so is strongly advised.

Not only does certification help CNC machinist prove their competency to potential employers, but it also allows them to scale their earnings and specialize even further.

The state’s most prominent certification option for new CNC machinists is the CNC Machining level I credential offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills. This proves basic foundational and safety skills.

Those who wish to go higher in terms of credentials can choose the CNC Machining level II credential, also offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills.

Top CNC Machinist Schools in Michigan

The following are some of the top machining schools in Michigan for aspiring CNC machinists to consider.

Washtenaw Community College

Washtenaw Community College is usually considered one of Michigan’s best colleges for CNC machining training. Based in Ann Arbor, the school’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology department offers an associate degree in mechatronics program.

Students can kick-start careers in Mechatronics Technology, Robotics Technology, and CNC Machine Technology through this program.

Macomb Community College

CNC machining students at Macomb Community Colleges receive top-quality training in computer-aided design and manufacturing, CNC essentials, machine tools, blueprint reading, CNC mill, metallurgy, and shop mathematics.

Based in Warren, the school also offers apprenticeship training so students have enough practical application experience. Students may opt for the CNC Machinist certificate program or the Associate of Applied Science in Machining Technology program.

Notable Mentions

Other notable destinations for high-quality CNC machine training in Michigan include Lake Michigan College, with excellent state-of-the-art facilities and quality instructors; Epic Training Academy, with job placement assistance and connection with the state manufacturing industry; and Oakland Community College, with rigorous hands-on training.

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Salary and Job Outlook

As an aspiring CNC machinist in Michigan, you may expect a starting salary of around $52,092, the average annual wage for entry-level professionals in the field. Generally, though, CNC machinists in the state with mid-level experience earn an average yearly salary of $70,038.

Those in the top ten percent of earners earn as high as $94,168 in average yearly salary.

Sorting strictly by location, the highest-paying cities for CNC machinists in Michigan include: