CNC Machinist Schools in Alabama

CNC Machinists are professionals capable of operating CNC machines and performing other advanced tasks, including programming, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Candidates must acquire comprehensive training before they start their careers in this field.

However, for a successful and long-lasting CNC machinist career, there are several considerations besides education alone.

These include certification options, training avenues, and optimization factors for higher salaries. Thankfully, the sections below explore all of these in detail.

How to Become a CNC Machinist in Alabama

Aspiring CNC machinists in Alabama may follow the steps below to start their careers.

Step 1: Preparatory Requirements

To prepare for their CNC machinist careers in Alabama, individuals should have a high school diploma or GED, which they’ll use to enter a training program. They should also have a strong knowledge of basic mathematics and physics.

Step 2: Skills & Abilities

From the beginning or along the way, aspiring CNC machinists in Alabama must develop mechanical aptitude, strong practical skills, a high level of concentration, and the ability to work alone or as part of a team.

They must also be analytical, have reasonable physical fitness, and be good with computers.

Step 3: Training Programs

Individuals may receive training as prospective CNC machinists from various sources, including on-the-job training provided by employers, apprenticeship programs offered by professional organizations, and academic programs offered by trade schools and community colleges.

Here, they will learn key topics such as mill and lathe set-up and troubleshooting, programming, computer-aided design, and computer-aided manufacturing.

The duration of an academic CNC machinist training program will depend on the degree in sight. Candidates typically have a choice between 6-month programs, 2-year programs, and bachelor’s degree programs that can be completed in 4 years.

Step 4: Employment

Candidates may proceed to secure employment after completion of their training programs. They may also be compelled to acquire professional certification for better career chances.

We discuss more on this topic below.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• How to become an HVAC technician in Alabama

Licensure & Certification Requirements

No law currently requires CNC machinists in Alabama to receive a state license before starting working legally. No law mandates certification either, but this is common simply because of the professional benefits doing so offers.

Certified CNC machinists have better job placement leverage. They also enjoy access to networking opportunities and continuing education resources.

Most CNC machinists looking to become certified in Alabama turn to the National Institute for Metalworking Skills, one of the most prominent and nationally recognized institutions offering professional credentials for CNC machinists nationwide.

The institute offers several credentials requiring passing a written and practical exam. A common choice is the CNC Lathe and Programming Credential.

Top CNC Machinist Schools in Alabama

Individuals may consider any entries below for comprehensive CNC machinist training in Alabama.

Explore CNC machinist schools in Alabama by city:

• CNC machinist schools in Birmingham

Salary & Career Outlook

A recent survey revealed that the annual average salary of CNC machinists in Alabama is around $80,601. This figure is relevant to average earners and aligns with the national average.

For those among the top 10%, $110,798 is the annual salary to expect, while those among the bottom 10% take home an annual average salary of $58,634.

Candidates may gain more experience to earn more. They may also optimize their place of employment, specialty area, credentials, and location.

For the best chances at a higher salary, CNC machinists in Huntsville were revealed to be the best-placed in the state, with an annual average salary of $88,850.

Other notable locations include Birmingham, with an annual average salary of $88,419; Athens, with an annual average salary of $87,888; and Hartselle, with an annual average salary of $84,734.