CNC Machinist Programs in Hampton, Virginia

Becoming a CNC Machinist in Hampton, Virginia

Are you considering a career as a CNC Machinist in Hampton, Virginia? This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with all the information you need to understand the path to becoming a CNC Machinist. A CNC Machinist, specializing in Computer Numerical Control, operates precision machinery to cut, shape, and finish metal and other materials. There are several education paths you can take, including community college programs and specialized trade schools.

About Hampton

Hampton, Virginia, is a historic city in the southeastern part of the state, known for its rich colonial history and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. For more information about the city, visit the official Hampton website. From the beautiful Fort Monroe to the bustling downtown area, Hampton offers a unique blend of history and modern industry, making it an ideal location for aspiring CNC Machinists.

CNC Machinist Training Programs in Hampton, Virginia

While Hampton itself offers limited CNC Machinist programs, nearby institutions provide excellent training options:

  1. Virginia Western Community College
    Located a couple of hours from Hampton, this college offers a Machining Program with courses in Machining Fundamentals, Milling, and Turning Operator, leading to NIMS certifications. More details can be found on their Machining Program page.

  2. Central Virginia Community College
    Situated over 100 miles away, it provides a machine tools diploma, a certificate, and a career studies certificate in computer numerical control. Visit their program page for more information.

  3. Southwest Virginia Community College
    Although further away, this institution offers a CNC machine operator program, a Precision Machining career studies certificate, and an Advanced Precision Machining career studies certificate. More details are available on their official website.

CNC Machinist Employment Opportunities in Hampton

Hampton hosts a variety of manufacturing facilities and machine shops where CNC Machinists can find employment:

  • Huntington Ingalls Industries
    Located in the Newport News neighborhood, this major shipbuilding company is a significant employer in the area. Learn about their career opportunities here.

  • Howmet Aerospace
    Situated in the Hampton Roads area, Howmet Aerospace specializes in advanced engineering solutions. Their employment page provides more information on available positions: Careers at Howmet Aerospace.

  • Canon Virginia, Inc.
    In nearby Newport News, Canon Virginia manufactures and refurbishes imaging products for Canon. Explore job openings on their careers page.

Prerequisites for CNC Machinist Programs

To enroll in a CNC Machinist program in Hampton, Virginia, you typically need:

  • High School Diploma or GED: Basic education requirement.
  • Minimum Age: 18 years old.
  • Preparatory Courses: Knowledge of algebra, trigonometry, technical drafting, and blueprint reading can be beneficial.

CNC Machinist Certification Options

Becoming a certified CNC Machinist can enhance your career prospects. Consider the following certifications:

  • NIMS Certifications: Offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills, these include CNC Turning: Operator, Level 1, and CNC Milling: Programming Setup & Operations. Learn more about NIMS here.

  • Certified Professional in Mastercam: Ideal for those specializing in Mastercam, enhancing your skills and marketability.

Virginia does not require a state license to work as a CNC Machinist.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a CNC Machinist in Hampton, Virginia, is an exciting journey! With the right training and certification, you can position yourself for success in this high-demand field. Reach out to a school today to begin your path towards becoming a CNC Machinist. For more information on job prospects, visit the job outlook page for CNC Machine Tool Programmers.