The duties of a CNC machinist are incredibly technical. They range from operating CNC machines to carrying out maintenance and upgrades. They can even program the logic units upon which these incredible machines function.
Naturally, anyone who wants to become a CNC machinist in Birmingham, Alabama, must first acquire such training. The city offers several incredible options in this regard, including academic and on-the-job training.
Below, we examine a few of the most prominent choices for candidates to consider. First, we examine the general requirements expected of individuals looking to start a CNC machinist career in Birmingham.
How to Become a CNC Machinist in Birmingham
Candidates seeking a successful CNC machine career in Birmingham often start with a high school diploma or GED. With this, they will gain admission into a training program, possibly an academic one, offered by community colleges and technical schools.
Here, they will receive foundational training, which they must build upon while acquiring hands-on experience through an apprenticeship or an employer offering training “on the job.” Candidates must acquire professional credentials from a relevant organization for more career opportunities.
Currently, the National Institute for Metalworking Skills remains the most prominent option.
CNC machinists in Birmingham will be glad to know they don’t have to receive a state license to start working professionally.
Top CNC Machinist Schools in Birmingham, Alabama
The following are the top CNC machinist training programs in and around Birmingham, Alabama.
Lawson State Community College
Birmingham, AL Online + Campus
Lawson State Community College offers a Machine Tool Technology program that helps candidates acquire all the skills they need to become CNC machinists. The program also helps students gain experience operating various machines, including drill presses and milling machines.
Tuition
$4,920 - $8,670Contact
(205) 231-7370
admissions@lawsonstate.edu
Alabama State University
Montgomery, AL Online + Campus
Alabama State University students may enroll in an online CNC machining program designed to give them an intensive overview of several topics in the field. By the time they graduate, they will have learned about workholding, mathematics, metal cutting, materials, and safety, among other things.
Tuition
$11,068 - $19,396Contact
(334) 229-4291
admissions@alasu.edu
Bevill State Community College
Sumiton, AL Online + Campus
Bevill State Community College has an excellent program for aspiring CNC machinists, the Machine Tool Technology program. The program offers three awards: an associate in applied science degree, a long-term certificate, and a short-term certificate.
Tuition
$5,278 - $9,278Contact
(800) 648-3271
SumitonAdmissions@bscc.edu
Wallace State Community College
Hanceville, AL Online + Campus
Wallace State Community College offers a Machine Tool Technology program that has produced several successful CNC machinists in Alabama. Candidates may pursue several awards, including an associate of applied science or a regular certificate.
Tuition
$1,161 - $2,322 per SemesterContact
(256) 352-8235
machinetool@wallacestate.edu
Calhoun Community College
Huntsville, AL Online + Campus
Calhoun Community College’s Machine Tool Technology program is another wonderful option for individuals in Birmingham to consider. The program offers several degrees, including an associate of applied science, an advanced short-term certificate, and a tool and die short-term certificate.
Tuition
$5,000 - $8,750Contact
(256) 306-2668
jay.beasley@calhoun.edu
Notable Mentions
Other notable mentions for candidates to consider include the Precision Machining Technical program at Gadsden State Community College, the Computerized Numerical Control program at Shelton State Community College, the Machine Tooling program at Drake State Community and Technical College; and the Computer Numerical Control programs at Shelton State Community College and Enterprise State Community College.
Explore nearby states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: