Machine Tool Technology Program

Hands-on, high-demand careers – that’s Machine Tool Technology. Want to gain skills in a field where employers are waiting for you to graduate? Precision manufacturing could be your ticket. Machine and manufacturing technicians use computer skills, precise measurements, and machine processes to turn blueprints and 3-D designs into everything from plastic cell phone covers and earbuds to metal car and computer parts.

Program Requirements and Job Outlook

CNC Precision Manufacturing Technician AAS CNC Precision Manufacturing Technician Diploma CNC Technician Diploma Computer Numerical Control Technician Certificate Machining Technician Diploma

Program delivery

• Hutchinson
• Willmar (CNC Technician Diploma)
• Blended (on campus and online)
• Fall and spring starts

Skills you will learn

• Safe manufacturing practices
• Set up and operation of manual lathes, mills and surface grinders
• Programming, set up and operation of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining and turning centers
• Computer-aided Machining (CAM) software to generate programs for CNC shop machines
• Operation of modern precision measuring and test equipment
• Critical thinking for problem-solving

Choose Ridgewater

Ridgewater’s Machine Tool Technology program offers many paths into an excellent job market, helping to fill the strong current need for CNC precision manufacturing and machining technicians. Students benefit from learning from instructors who have extensive industry experience. Generous industry partners help keep equipment current, scholarships available, and curriculum relevant. In the last five years, our program has incorporated more than $230,000 of purchased and donated equipment. Industry partners donated $25,000 in the last two years for scholarships to ensure students succeed at Ridgewater and in industry.

Differences between the Hutchinson and Willmar campuses

Though Ridgewater’s Machine Tool Technology program is offered on both campuses, there are some differences between the two campuses. The Willmar campus only offers the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machine Technician Diploma, while the Hutchinson campus offers the CNC Machine Technician Diploma as well as the AAS degree, Precision Manufacturing Technician diploma, and the two certificate programs. 

Program attributes that help students thrive

• Strong industry partnerships who hire graduates like you
• Current industry CNC and precision equipment and tools
• Clean, modern work environment
• Flexible student work schedules with supportive local manufacturers
• Online courses for 40+% credits, allowing students to juggle work and learning
• Freedom to work at your own pace
• Knowledgeable, available instructors
• Experience with SolidWorks and CAM manufacturing software
• Networking and tours with several excellent manufacturing and machining shops

Our most successful Machine Tool Technology students enjoy hands-on work and learning, are mechanically inclined and inventive, have an eye for detail, and are comfortable on computers. They are also punctual because they enjoy working in our fun, fast-paced learning environment.