Anyone who wants to become a CNC machinist in Des Moines, Iowa, must possess certain skills and abilities. These include mechanical aptitude, high concentration, analytical skills, and critical thinking.
Of course, they must also possess the core technical skills and understanding of CNC machines. For these reasons, interested candidates must choose the right training programs to begin their careers.
This page introduces individuals to the steps they’ll need to launch a successful CNC machinist career in the city and showcases the best training programs they should consider.
Below, candidates will find a carefully curated list of the most prominent options and several paragraphs on what these programs offer.
How to Become a CNC Machinist in Des Moines
At the beginning of their journeys, aspiring CNC machinists in Des Moines must prepare by brushing up on their basic mathematics and physics. They should also get their high school diploma or GED document ready to secure admission into a training program.
Candidates with prior experience in machining and manufacturing may secure “on-the-job” training arrangements offered by professional organizations and machining companies.
Those without prior experience may start by attending an academic program, earning a degree or a certificate, and then finding more training opportunities to learn on the job.
Some academic programs also offer the opportunity to receive classroom and hands-on training so that candidates can secure entry-level employment immediately after graduation.
Top CNC Machinist Schools in Des Moines, Iowa
The entries below are among Des Moines, Iowa’s best training programs for future CNC machinists.
Hawkeye Community College
Waterloo, IA Campus Only
Hawkeye Community College is one of the most prominent destinations to receive training as an aspiring CNC machinist who resides in Des Moines and surrounding areas in the state.
The school offers a CNC Machining and Tool Making Technology program suitable for starting several careers, including CNC machinist, CNC operator, and CNC Set-up Specialist.
Tuition
$2,287 - $5,350 per TermContact
(319) 296-2320
admission@hawkeyecollege.edu
Kirkwood Community College
Cedar Rapids, IA Online + Campus
Kirkwood Community College is another destination with a prominent CNC machinist training program known for its comprehensive curriculum and excellent instructors.
The program is officially known as the CNC Machining Technology program. It is perfect for candidates who would like to dive into intermediate topics as quickly as possible.
Tuition
$5,700 - $7,604Contact
(319) 398-4983
indtech@kirkwood.edu
Iowa Western
Online, IA Online Only
Iowa Western’s online CNC Machinist training program is the perfect option for candidates who desire flexibility in their studies to have time for other commitments. The program offers more than just a little flexibility; thanks to its self-paced nature, it allows candidates to manage their time fully.
Tuition
$2,245 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Northwest Iowa Community College
Sheldon, IA Campus Only
At Northwest Iowa Community College, interested individuals may apply for a comprehensive and flexible machining basic training program. Students can choose between several training arrangements and may even qualify for tuition assistance if they are Iowa residents and at least 17.
Tuition
$3,150 per ProgramContact
(712) 324-5061
kkruger@nwicc.edu
Notable Mentions
Other notable CNC machinist training programs for candidates in Des Moines to consider include the CNC Machining diploma and certificate programs offered by Eastern Iowa community colleges with locations in Clinton, Muscatine, and Scott; the Computer Numerical Control Machine Technician training program offered by Northeast Iowa Community College; and the CNC Machining Apprenticeship training program offered by Iowa Central.
Explore nearby states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements:
Related Articles
Related Careers
Top Schools Near Me
