CNC Machinist Schools in Charleston

CNC machinists can perform advanced tasks on CNC machines, such as programming, maintenance, upgrade, and repair. To be able to do their jobs at the very highest level, a CNC machinist must first obtain proper training from a quality institution.

And while plenty of such institutions exist in Charleston, South Carolina, sifting through the alternatives to pick out the best can sometimes be challenging.

To make the process more convenient for aspiring CNC machinists in Charleston, we have provided below a resource containing the best CNC machinist training programs in and around the city. We’ve also included a few notes on what makes these institutions stand out and what applicants can expect during a program.

How to Become a CNC Machinist in Charleston

A CNC machinist in Charleston has to have a high school diploma or a GED equivalent. These are needed to gain admission into training programs and, of course, to secure employment when the time comes.

CNC machinists can obtain their training on the job, seeing as postsecondary degrees are not mandatory for employment. But even though the law doesn’t require it, many still choose to attend a formal training program anyway.

The degrees obtained from colleges and trade school programs tend to make employment easier. Formal training programs also provide strong theoretical knowledge, which acts as a solid foundation to build upon when actual hands-on training starts.

Apprenticeship programs are another route to becoming a CNC machinist. These programs offer a great deal of hands-on training and the opportunity to learn from established professionals with years of experience in the field.

Lastly, CNC machinists in Charleston may also choose to become certified to improve their chances of better employment and a higher potential salary.

Top CNC Machinist Programs Near Charleston, South Carolina

1. Trident Technical College

PO Box 118067, Charleston, SC 29423

Individuals who wish to become CNC machinists via the training opportunity at Trident technical college may do so by applying for the Machine Technology program. This program offers comprehensive classroom and CNC laboratory instructions from experienced machinists with experience in the field.

Moreover, the program also uses an advisory committee of local employers to provide additional guidance and real-world advice for students regarding the skills needed to secure employment.

Students get to learn about CNC machine processing, lathe and mills operation, inspection methods, machining and grinding processes, and analytical problem-solving skills that they can use to optimize the machining process.

2. Midlands Technical College

P.O. Box 2408, Columbia, SC 29202

Midlands Technical College is another renowned destination for obtaining comprehensive CNC machine training for residents in South Carolina. The program seeks to help technically inclined students learn the fundamentals of computer numerical control and how it applies to manufacturing machinery.

Throughout the program, students will learn how to use precision measuring tools, read blueprints, troubleshoot CNC machine components, and program CNC machines.

Those who wish to continue learning may apply for the school’s associate degree program in mechanical engineering technology or mechatronics.

3. University of South Carolina Sumter

B200 Miller Road, Sumter, SC 29150 US

The University of South Carolina is one of the best destinations to receive CNC machine training in the area. The school provides an online CNC machine course designed to equip students with all the skills and knowledge they need to begin their careers on a solid foundation.

Along with providing rigorous training in work holding mathematics and metal cutting/grinding, students also learn production floor safety, metallurgy, control, and programming, along with state-of-the-art inspection methods.

Enrolled students also attend the program’s virtual national apprenticeship week, where they’ll learn even more through live webinars, workshops, and interactions with actual employers.

Explore detailed steps, education, and Licensing requirements:

4. Palmetto Training Inc.

1085 Thunderbolt Dr, Walterboro, SC 29488

Palmetto Training Inc is a respected institution known for producing brilliant technologists through its courses. Their CNC program is currently accepting new students to learn CNC machining under the tutelage of experienced instructors.

Students learn basic mathematics, blueprint reading, advanced mathematics, and machining using computer numerical control programming.

The program lasts 20 weeks, including 16 weeks for CNC programming and four additional weeks for CNC operation. Classes are held from Monday to Thursday every week for the duration of the program.

5. Greenville Technical College

P.O. Box 5616, Greenville, SC 29606

Greenville Technical College’s CNC Machinist Technology Program is renowned in the state and throughout the country. It has continuously appeared in numerous lists of the best CNC programs nationwide.

Students can study under qualified instructors and graduate as CNC Machine Operator Level I or CNC Machine Operator Level II professionals.

During the program, they will become familiar with shop mathematics, primary programming language, multi-coordinate CNC axis, blueprint reading, and CNC machine operation.

Students may also be eligible for grants if they meet the requirement. Lastly, graduates who wish to pursue an associate degree program in Machine Tool Technology can do so by receiving nine hours of academic exception credit from their CNC Machine Operator Level I program.

Consider exploring CNC Machinist schools in neighboring states: