CNC Machinist Schools in Mississippi

The qualities that make a great CNC machinist can be quite flexible. However, at the very least, a sense of problem-solving, critical thinking, and extensive technical skills are vital.

Residents of Mississippi have many reasons to pursue a career in the profession, not the least of which is that several successful professionals are already in the field, and there are many pathways for career growth and future advancement opportunities.

This page’s guide explores the basic requirements to become a CNC machinist in the state and other important aspects of the profession, such as possible training programs and an annual average salary projection.

How to Become a CNC Machinist in Mississippi

CNC machinists in Mississippi tend to start their careers following the path below.

Understanding What the Field Entails

Candidates who possess a level of understanding of what the field of CNC machining entails, no matter how cursory, will have an advantage when they begin learning more advanced topics in the field. Preparatory courses can help in this regard.

Candidates are also expected to have either a diploma from high school or a GED equivalent.

Learning Machining Duties

In understanding the exact requirements of a CNC machinist and what duties they will perform when they secure employment, candidates typically attend an academic program to earn a degree and improve their appeal to employers.

They will still need to gain hands-on experience. While some programs offer these at an academic level, it is usually more common for candidates to build real-world familiarity through an apprenticeship program.

Apprenticeship Training for Hands-On Experience

Apprenticeship training for hands-on experience is necessary for most trade and technical professions, and CNC machining is no different. Candidates are expected to develop real-world skills to transition smoothly into entry-level employment and gain the confidence needed to perform their duties diligently.

Consider trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a plumber in Mississippi

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Mississippi is one of the numerous states where professional CNC machinists are not required to receive a state-specific license to start their careers and work professionally. The state does not mandate certification either, but professionals would do well to be certified anyway, thanks to career benefits.

These benefits include access to continuing education, networking potential, and strong professional appeal for securing employment.

Professionals who would like to choose a well-recognized authority offering highly rated credentials valid across the country may obtain certification from the National Institute of Metalworking Skills. Those who prefer another option may choose HAAS Automation certifications or Manufacturing Skills Standard Council credentials.

Top CNC Machinist Schools in Mississippi

Mississippi offers the following CNC machinist programs for interested individuals.

Explore CNC machinist schools in Mississippi by city:

• CNC machinist schools in Jackson

Salary & Career Outlook

The annual average salary for a fresh CNC machinist in Mississippi — just at the beginning of their career — will usually hover around $38,127 to $62,857. This is because the figures listed pertain to either those among the lowest-paid in the state or those among the median earners.

It is natural that candidates just starting their careers will have to work their way up in terms of yearly returns. Ultimately, after attaining the median annual average salary figure, it is possible to go even further and start earning salaries close to the top 10% of professionals who manage an annual average salary of $103,627 or more in Mississippi.

Experience, location, and specialty credentials may also significantly alter the annual average salary of a CNC machinist in Mississippi, for better or worse. The following destinations are considered to be among the highest paying for CNC machinists in the state:

• Diamondhead, with an annual average salary of $102,431;
• Jackson, with an annual average salary of $97,423;
• Shannon, with an annual average salary of $79,228;
• Petal, with an annual average salary of $75,556.