CNC Machinist Programs in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Becoming a CNC Machinist in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
If you’re considering a career as a CNC Machinist in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, you’re in the right place. CNC Machinists, or Computer Numerical Control Machinists, operate and program machines that manufacture precision components. This guide will help you explore the various educational paths available to embark on this rewarding career. Whether you’re interested in a short-term certification or a comprehensive degree program, Cedar Rapids has options to suit your needs.
About Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids, known for its thriving community and rich industrial history, offers a great environment for aspiring machinists. As the second-largest city in Iowa, Cedar Rapids is home to several cultural landmarks, such as the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and the Czech Village. For more about Cedar Rapids, visit the official city website.
CNC Machinist Training Programs in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
In Cedar Rapids, aspiring CNC Machinists have access to reputable training programs:
Kirkwood Community College: Located just outside of Cedar Rapids, Kirkwood Community College offers a CNC Machining Technology program. The program, starting every fall, covers statistical process control, computer-aided design, and coordinate measuring machines. The course can be completed in three semesters. More information is available on their program page.
Hawkeye Community College: Although located in Waterloo, about 60 miles from Cedar Rapids, Hawkeye Community College offers a comprehensive CNC Machining and Tool Making Technology program. This program provides hands-on experience with CNC and manual machines, CAD/CAM programming, and inspection techniques. Visit their program page for details.
CNC Machinist Employment Opportunities in Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids hosts several manufacturing facilities and machine shops that offer diverse employment opportunities for CNC Machinists:
Rockwell Collins (Collins Aerospace): A prominent aerospace and defense products supplier located in the Collins Road neighborhood. They frequently seek skilled CNC Machinists for their production teams. Explore their careers page for current opportunities.
PMX Industries: Situated in the Wilson Avenue area, PMX Industries is a leading supplier of precision metal products. Their employment opportunities are listed on their official website.
Prerequisites for CNC Machinist Programs
To enroll in a CNC Machinist program in Cedar Rapids, candidates typically need:
- High School Diploma or GED: A foundational requirement for most programs.
- Preparatory Courses: Beneficial subjects include mathematics, physics, technical drafting, trigonometry, and algebra.
CNC Machinist Certification Options
While CNC Machinist positions do not require licensing in Iowa, obtaining certifications can significantly enhance your career prospects:
National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certifications: These include the Certified CNC Lathe Programming Setup & Operations certification. Visit the NIMS website for more details.
OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Card: Some programs, like Hawkeye Community College’s, incorporate this safety training as part of the curriculum. Learn more about OSHA training here.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a CNC Machinist career path in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, can open doors to various opportunities in a growing field. With the right training and certification, you can position yourself for success. Contact one of the local schools today to start your journey toward becoming a skilled CNC Machinist.
For further insights into job prospects, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.