Everett Community College

Precision Machining
Curriculum Guide for Precision Machining 

The precision machinist works very much like a sculptor by removing material from a solid block of material to create something of greater value. The sculptor typical creates great works of art, whereas the machinist typically creates something more utilitarian, to be used in a manufactured product. While the sculptor might use a hammer and chisel, the precision machinist uses very sophisticated machines like milling machines, planers, routers and so on. Furthermore, complex computer programs devised by the machinist might be used to operate these machines. 

The precision machining program at Everett Community College offers classes for people seeking careers such as  machinist, tool maker, quality control technician, CNC computer programmer, or, perhaps, manufacturing business owner.  These careers are for people who like to make things and who like precision. 

Everett Community College offers classes in precision machining, that when combined with selected classes in blueprint reading, math and industrial safety, create a certificate that can assist graduates in getting a job in as little as two college quarters. Add more general education and technical classes, and the student can achieve a two-year associate’s degree.  And for students seeking higher levels of education, it should be pointed out that the machining classes provide a solid foundation for careers in industrial and manufacturing engineering, making these engineering graduates more attractive in the job market. 

And, the pay is not bad either. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, machining and tool making is the seventh highest paying career in this country, based on lifetime earnings. To put together a plan for your precision machining education, please consult an advisor, shown at the right.