CNC Machinist Schools in Hawaii

The manufacturing process has always been challenging, requiring great accuracy and precision. Thankfully, with the advent of CNC machines, manufacturers can achieve precision that many thought impossible. CNC machinists are capable of several tasks behind the proper usage of these machines, including CNC programming, operation, setup, and more.

To start a career as a CNC machinist in Hawaii, candidates must acquire the necessary training to carry out these operations. Furthermore, they must consider other requirements, including certification, education, and more. We examine these points in depth in the sections below.

How to Become a CNC Machinist in Hawaii

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

Step 1: Meeting Basic Requirements

Future CNC machinists in Hawaii must start by meeting the basic requirements (usually set by training programs and employers). These include having a high school diploma or GED and being strong in basic mathematics and science.

Some transferable skills also help make the process easier. These include critical thinking, problem-solving, precision, concentration, and the ability to work alone when necessary.

Step 2: Training Programs

Candidates may consider either academic training, on-the-job training, or both for their actual CNC machinist training.

• Academic Training—Individuals who want to earn a degree to start their careers as CNC machinists attend academic training programs. Several community colleges and technical schools in Hawaii and the surrounding environs offer this training.

Students spend most of their time in the class, but there are provisions for hands-on training.

• On-the-Job Training—For predominant hands-on training without earning a degree, On-the-job training programs are the way to go. These are often arranged as apprenticeships courtesy of manufacturing companies and trade organizations.

Some on-the-job training programs may allow candidates to earn while still learning.

Step 3: Employment & Career Opportunities

CNC machinists in Hawaii may secure employment once their training is complete. They may also consider joining professional organizations to network with fellow professionals and take advantage of career opportunities.

The section below explores this topic in detail.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Become a carpenter in Hawaii

Licensure & Certification Requirements

No law requires CNC machinists in Hawaii to acquire a state license before they can start working professionally. Candidates are free to pursue certification of their own accord.

The National Institute for Metalworking Skills offers several professional credentials that allow candidates to enjoy career benefits. These include educational resources and networking opportunities, among others.

Some popular NIMS credentials include the CNC Milling Programming Setup and Operations credential and the CNC Turning Programming Setup and Operations credential.

However, the NIMS is one of many prominent certification bodies for CNC machinists. Other notable options include the Society for Mechanical Engineers and the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council.

Top CNC Machinist Schools in Hawaii

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

Explore CNC machinist schools in Hawaii by city:

• CNC machinist schools in Honolulu

Salary & Career Outlook

On a general level, the annual average salary split for CNC machinists in Hawaii can be summarized thus:

• $150,762 annual average salary – for those who are among the top 10%;
• $100,946 annual average salary – for those who are among the bottom 10%;
• $123,365 annual average salary – for those among the average earners.

These figures were obtained from a survey of CNC machinists in the state. They show that the state’s average annual earnings for CNC machinists align with the national average.

It also showed that candidates may optimize their location within the state, experience level, and credentials to give themselves a strong chance at earning more at the end of the year.

Concerning location alone, the annual average salary split for CNC machinists in Hawaii can be summarized thus:

• Kaneohe - $110,656 annual average salary;
• Honolulu - $79,965 annual average salary;
• Hilo - $73,541 annual average salary;