As a CNC machinist in Tennessee, your job will involve managing CNC machines. Unlike other professionals who deal with these machines, a CNC machinist must be able to do more than just operate the system.
They must be able to configure it, understand its programming languages, and be able to carry out additional functions such as installation and upgrade. To get started, candidates must enroll in a training program and go through many other steps to improve their job prospects.
Candidates in Tennessee looking to embark upon the journey will be glad to know that we have broken down every important detail involved in this process into easily digestible chunks in the upcoming sections below.
How to Become a CNC Machinist in Tennessee
Individuals interested in starting a CNC machining career in Tennessee may consider the steps below to launch their careers.
Step 1: Have a High School Diploma or GED
The most fundamental educational requirement needed to become a CNC machinist in Tennessee is a high school diploma or GED. In high school, candidates must focus on mathematics, algebra, geometry, blueprint reading, technical drafting, and computer science.
Step 2: Enroll in an Academic Program
A CNC machining academic program allows candidates to learn the fundamentals of CNC machine operations, general blueprint reading, and technical topics. Most importantly, they will graduate with a certificate or a degree and be equipped with all the necessary skills to secure employment.
Even though enrolling in an academic program is not mandatory, many choose to because the degree or certificate acquired helps secure employment and pursue continuing education.
Step 3: Acquire Hands-On Experience
Like most occupations, hands-on experience is important for a CNC machinist. And even though academic programs try to incorporate elements of hands-on training, the best place to obtain one is through an apprenticeship program.
For this reason, some consider apprenticeship programs a viable alternative to academic programs. Others consider it a complementary avenue to consolidate the skills obtained from colleges and trade schools.
Those with prior experience in related fields may apply directly for a job and acquire training while working.
Step 4: Put your Skills Together and Secure Employment
Finally, candidates can put their resumes together and seek employment in relevant industries. They may also acquire a certification to verify their skills and make themselves more appealing to potential employees. Below, we discuss the certification requirements for aspiring CNC machinists in Tennessee.
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Licensure and Certification Requirements
As a fresh CNC machinist in Tennessee, you are not expected to register with the state or obtain a license before starting to work professionally. Instead, you may choose to obtain professional credentials to enjoy the benefits that come with it.
Some of the most popular credentials to apply for include:
- CNC Machinist Level I - offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills.
- CNC Machinist Level II - also offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills,
- Haas Automation CNC Operator/Programmer certification.
- American Society of Mechanical Engineers CNC Machinist certification,
- CNC Lathe Programming and Setup certification - offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills
To obtain these credentials, candidates must send an official application, pay the application fees, and obtain a passing score in the appropriate examination.
Top CNC Machinist Schools in Tennessee
Below are a few top CNC machinist training destinations for interested individuals in Tennessee to consider.
Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology
Future CNC machinists in Tennessee may consider the Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology for their training. The school offers comprehensive CNC machining training on campuses located in Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville, Pulaski, Elizabethton, Murfreesboro, Shelbyville, Morristown, Crossville, and Livingston, among others.
Chattanooga State Community College
Chattanooga State Community College offers supplementary training for candidates who have received hands-on training in machine tool shops or have experience with machine tools. To be admitted into the program, candidates must pass a skills test.
Moore Tech
Moore Tech’s Machine Technology program teaches key aspects of CNC machining, including blueprint reading, tools, CNC programming, and more.
The program offers an associate of applied technology program that lasts 2 years, a day-only diploma program, and a night-only certificate program.
Notable Mentions
Other notable destinations for comprehensive CNC machining training in Tennessee include the Southwest Tennessee Community College and the online programs of Nashville State Community College and the University of Tennessee-Martin.
Explore CNC Machinist Schools by City:
Salary & Career Outlook
According to a survey of almost a thousand professionals in the state carried out by Indeed, the annual average salary of CNC machinists in Tennessee is $68,717. The same survey revealed that machinists who earn the most in the state make up to $91,829 in average salary per year, while those who fall into the lower end of the scale take home around $51,442 annually.
Lenoir City is Tennessee’s highest-paying city for CNC machinists, with an annual average salary of $80,467. Johnson City comes in second, with an annual average salary of $79,687.
The top five highest-paying cities for CNC machinists in Tennessee are Nashville, Chattanooga, and Memphis, with annual average salaries of $77,359, $73,020, and $70,367, respectively.
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