CNC Machinist Schools in Kentucky

CNC machining, or precision machining, is the art of carrying out critical tasks on a CNC machine to ensure smooth operation, efficiency, durability, and effectiveness. Such tasks may include setting up, programming, maintaining, and upgrading these machines when called upon.

Thankfully, for candidates in Kentucky, the requirements for starting a career in this profession are quite straightforward. Moreover, they will enjoy a high demand for expertise and a competitive career salary.

The resources below highlight the main requirements and a few examples of the annual average salary that candidates can expect.

How to Become a CNC Machinist in Kentucky

The following are the requirements needed to become a CNC machinist in Kentucky.

Basic Requirements

Kentucky’s basic requirements to become a CNC machinist start with a high school diploma or GED. From there, candidates may also develop their basic knowledge of mathematics and physics, along with other machine tooling subjects.

Some training programs may also ask candidates to start at least 18.

Training Requirements

Employers of CNC machinists are usually willing to hire candidates with a fundamental knowledge of the field. To start, individuals would want to receive both classroom training and hands-on training.

Hands-On Training

CNC machinists need extensive experience working with actual CNC machines before they can call themselves professionals. For this reason, many opt for hands-on training.

Potential employers can find such arrangements by offering on-the-job training or apprenticeship programs.

Classroom Training

As important as receiving hands-on experience as an aspiring CNC machinist, it is just as important to receive fundamental classroom training to familiarize yourself with the key subjects in the field. For this, candidates may consult community colleges and technical colleges.

We provide some viable options to consider in an upcoming section.

Certification, Skills, & Employment

Those who have completed the steps above may work in shipbuilding, rail transport, defense, and the aerospace industries where CNC machines are widely employed. They should also develop transferable skills such as problem-solving and collaboration.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become an aircraft mechanic in Kentucky

For better career opportunities, candidates may consider the certification options below.

Licensure & Certification Requirements

CNC machinists starting their careers in Kentucky will be glad to know that they don’t have to receive a license from the state to start their careers, and the law doesn’t expect them to become certified, either.

The need for certification arises because potential employers value it, and it provides opportunities for networking and continuing education.

The National Institute for Metalworking Skills remains the authority for those who want to become certified CNC machinists in Kentucky. The institute offers widely recognized credentials in several specialty areas.

Popular options include the NIMS Certified Machinist and CNC Set-up Programmer credentials.

Top CNC Machinist Schools in Kentucky

Below are some prominent CNC machinist training programs for candidates in Kentucky.

Explore CNC machinist schools in Kentucky by city:

• CNC machinist schools in Louisville

Salary & Career Outlook

The annual average salary for CNC machinists in Kentucky ranges between $59,115 at the lower and $98,944 at the higher end. Of course, most candidates fall right along the middle, earning an annual average salary of around $76,479.

For those who would like to move from the lower end of the salary spectrum to the higher end, factors such as experience and professional credentials can be very helpful. The particular capacity in which a CNC machinist is employed and the exact company are also significant factors.

As with most professions, candidates may also consider different locations within the state offering higher average salaries. For instance, while candidates in Winchester earn an annual average salary of $106,250, those in Nicholasville take home an annual average salary of $83,037.

Georgetown is another notable city for CNC machinists in Kentucky, with an average annual salary of $81,433.