CNC Machinist Schools in Minnesota

Computer numerical control machines have become so important in our world today. Because of these machines, we can carry out various manufacturing processes with a high efficiency and precision that many once thought impossible.

As CNC machines get more popular, CNC machinists capable of handling and managing these devices are also experiencing a surge in demand for their expertise.

As an aspiring CNC machinist in Minnesota, one of the best things you can do is become familiar with the requirements to start your career as early as possible. To help you achieve this, we look below at Minnesota’s major requirements for becoming a CNC machinist.

How to Become a CNC Machinist in Minnesota

Below are the steps required to become a CNC machinist in Minnesota:

Enroll in a Training Program

The first step to becoming a CNC machinist in Minnesota is to apply for admission into a training program. Candidates may choose to enroll in any of the trade schools and community colleges found in the list below. Here, they may go for a certificate or associate degree program. Regardless of their choice, by the time they graduate, they should have the skills required to pursue further training on the job or secure entry-level employment.

Real-World Experience

Some aspiring CNC machinists in Minnesota go for apprenticeship programs instead of academics. Professional organizations and CNC machinist employers organize these kinds of programs.

Through this avenue, candidates receive hands-on training and may even have the opportunity to earn some income while learning.

Combination Approach

It is worth mentioning that while candidates may choose to begin their CNC machinist career in Minnesota by attending an academic program or an on-the-job training program, it is also common to see candidates combine these approaches.

They may do so, for example, by attending an academic program and participating in an internship or apprenticeship. Some on-the-job training arrangements also try as much as possible to incorporate classroom training.

Credentials & Employment

Lastly, candidates may seek professional credentials and secure employment after acquiring relevant training. The section below discusses more professional credentials for CNC machinists in Minnesota.

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Licensure & Certification Requirements

The state of Minnesota does not have any particular licensing requirements for CNC machinists. The state does not have any mandatory certification requirements, either.

However, it is often advisable for a CNC machinist here to apply for certification anyway, simply because there are numerous benefits.

Among the most popular credentials to go for are the CNC Machining Level 1 certification and the CNC Machining Level 2 certification, which are products of the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).

Candidates may also opt for the Mastercam Certified Professional (MCP) or the FANUC Robotics Certified Education Robot Programmer (CERP) credential.

Top CNC Machinist Schools in Minnesota

Aspiring CNC machinists in Minnesota may consider any of the quality destinations below for their training.

Explore CNC machinist schools in Minnesota by city:

• CNC machinist schools in Minneapolis

Salary & Career Outlook

The annual average salary for a CNC machinist in Minnesota just starting their career is usually around $83,127. Those among the bottom 10% of earners in the state take home an annual average salary of $64,372, while those among the top 10% of earners in the state make an average salary of $107,346 per year.

Some key factors that play huge roles in determining how much CNC machinists earn in the state include their location, experience level, professional credentials, and the company where they secure employment.

Concerning location, the best place to work as a CNC machinist in Minnesota (based on average salary alone) is Golden Valley. Professionals here take home an annual average salary of $96,610.

CNC machinists in Elk River are also among the highest paid, with an average annual salary of $88,200. They are followed by Sartell, with an annual average salary of $87,389; Monticello, with an annual average salary of $86,631; and Minneapolis, with an annual average salary of $85,896.