CNC Machinist Schools in New Mexico

Advanced machines that can produce highly precise output are the future of manufacturing. In New Mexico, several companies and establishments are looking for professionals who have an in-depth understanding of CNC machines and can set them up and program them to yield the best possible results.

Readers of the page who want to become successful CNC machinists in New Mexico will appreciate the resources here, which have broken down all the steps to go through for the best possible outcome.

We start by analyzing the basic requirements and educational alternatives before moving to the licensing and certification options and possible salary figures.

How to Become a CNC Machinist in New Mexico

The following is a step-by-step overview of becoming a CNC machinist in New Mexico.

Becoming Familiar with Prospective Duties

Initially, individuals looking to become CNC machinists in New Mexico must familiarize themselves with the prospective duties and focus areas. The field involves monitoring equipment, making adjustments, and optimizing CNC operations.

The three broad focus areas in the profession are operation machining, programming machining, and setup machining.

Enrolling in a Training Program

Candidates are expected to enroll in the best training programs and develop robust expectations for securing entry-level employment as soon as they complete training.

Since a degree is not mandatory, candidates can start a career without attending an academic program. However, doing so will allow them to earn valuable credentials that will serve them well in their professional lives.

Apprenticeship Training

Candidates can combine academic training with apprenticeship training or simply undergo apprenticeship training without academic training.

Regardless, they are expected to develop real-world experience, which is typically very valuable to potential employers and for career opportunities. Most apprenticeship training programs for prospective CNC machinists in New Mexico can be completed in 4 years.

Consider trades with similar paths:

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Acquiring proper training is the most important part of becoming a CNC machinist in New Mexico. The state does not have a law requiring professionals to be licensed or certified. However, even though certification is not mandatory, it is very common because it is beneficial.

Certified CNC machinists usually have an edge as employers see their skills verified by a top-level organization. Furthermore, certification brings about continuing education opportunities and networking potential.

When choosing a prominent organization to receive certification from, professionals in New Mexico may choose the National Institute for Metalworking Skills. This organization offers specialty credentials in programming, setup, milling, and grinding, among other things.

The Manufacturing Skills Institute is also very highly regarded for its CNC certifications.

Top CNC Machinist Schools in New Mexico

The schools below boast high-quality training programs for prospective CNC machinists in New Mexico.

#New Mexico

Central New Mexico Community College

Albuquerque, NM Campus Only

Central New Mexico Community College offers a robust Machine Tool Technology program that covers all the relevant areas needed to produce a successful CNC machinist.

Read more
Tuition
$68 - $344 per Credit
Contact
  • (505) 224-3000

  • contactcenter@cnm.edu

#New Mexico

University of New Mexico

Online, NM Online Only

An online program is a great option for interested individuals with busy schedules. Thankfully, the University of New Mexico Continuing Education Division offers an online option in addition to the CNC machinist program.

Read more
Tuition
$2,345 per Program
Contact
  • (855) 520-6806

#New Mexico

Northern New Mexico College

Online , NM Online Only

Lastly, candidates may opt for another self-paced online training program at Northern New Mexico College's El Rito campus.

Read more
Tuition
$2,245 per Program
Contact
  • (855) 520-6806

Explore CNC machinist schools in New Mexico by city:

Salary & Career Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics insists that the employment rate for CNC machinists in New Mexico and across the country will maintain its current trajectory. As workers retire and new professionals take their place, thousands of job openings will arise in the state.

If they are among the lowest earners, these professionals can look forward to an annual average salary of $61,140 or an annual average salary of $85,484 if they are among the median earners. If they are among the highest-paid, they can earn an annual average salary of $119,522 or even more.

Location is a factor that can help candidates maximize their earnings as CNC machinists in New Mexico. Currently, Bosque Farms is where these professionals make the most on a relative basis, thanks to an annual average return figure of $101,178.

The annual average salary for CNC machinists in Albuquerque, which is second, is $85,218; in Carlsbad, which is third, it is $82,775.