A prospective CNC machinist anywhere in the country must possess significant problem-solving skills and be able to work at a high level of precision and accuracy. This is true for candidates in Little Rock, Arkansas, who have the luxury of several high-quality training programs around them to develop these skills if they still need to possess them.
Additionally, the best training programs allow students to learn the theoretical principles governing CNC machines, work with actual machines, and experience their duties once they secure employment.
To help candidates find the best options, we have curated below a list of prominent training programs for aspiring CNC machinists in Little Rock. Firstly, though, here is a quick overview of what it takes to become a CNC machinist in the city.
How to Become a CNC Machinist in Little Rock
The first step in becoming a CNC machinist in Little Rock is to secure admission into a training program. Most people will need a high school diploma or GED and a basic understanding of mathematics and physics.
The training program that they choose to attend will depend on whether they prefer academic training or exclusively on-the-job training. Of course, candidates can also combine both approaches by attending a college program and securing an opportunity to learn on the job.
While there are no state licensure requirements for CNC machinists in Little Rock, candidates should become certified by a professional organization. This would improve their employability and give them access to continuing education and professional networking opportunities.
The National Institute for Metalworking Skills offers the most popular credentials for candidates nationwide.
Top CNC Machinist Schools in Little Rock, Arkansas
The following are among the best CNC machinist training programs in and around Little Rock, Arkansas.
University of Arkansas - Little Rock
Online, AR Online Only
The University of Arkansas in Little Rock offers a CNC machinist training program with 195 course hours and an estimated completion time of 12 months. However, candidates can complete it at their convenience because it is an online program with a self-paced approach.
Tuition
$2,245 per ProgramContact
(501) 916-3127
admissions@ualr.edu
Arkansas State University - Mountain Home
Mountain Home, AR Online + Campus
Arkansas State University in Mountain Home is another wonderful destination to receive training as an aspiring CNC machinist anywhere in Arkansas.
Tuition
$109 per CreditContact
(870) 508-6148
nlueck@asumh.edu
Pulaski Tech
North Little Rock, AR Online + Campus
Pulaski Tech’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology Program incorporates several topics in computer numerical control. Graduates often work as CNC machinists, CNC programmers, control technicians, quality inspectors, automation technicians, manufacturing technicians, or tool and die makers.
Tuition
$5,820 - $7,050Contact
(501) 812-2220
advising@uaptc.edu
North Arkansas College
Harrison, AR Campus Only
The Manufacturing Technology program at North Arkansas College offers a certificate of proficiency that aspiring CNC machinists may use to start their careers.
Tuition
$3,408 - $5,136Contact
(870) 391-3505
admissions@northark.edu
National Park College
Hot Springs National Park, AR Campus Only
The Industrial Training CNC Machining Technology program offered by National Park College in Hot Springs National Park is another excellent option for students to consider.
Tuition
$399 per ProgramContact
(501) 760-4222
Dale.Powell@np.edu
Notable Mentions
Other notable mentions include Arkansas State University’s Machine Technology program in West Memphis; the online CNC Machinist program offered by Southern Arkansas University Tech in Camden and Arkansas State University in Jonesboro; the Computer Integrated Machining program offered by the University of Arkansas in Fort Smith; and the Advanced Manufacturing Technology program offered by Arkansas State University in Newport.
Explore nearby states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: