All Grade 9 students go through the Exploratory Program. Please see page 8 for more detail. Students deciding to enter the Precision Machining Technology field will be introduced to the basics of safety, as well as the use and care of hand tools, power tools and stationary equipment. Manufacturing methods are initiated with an introduction to machinery and material types, along with their basic applications. Students start with small metalworking projects, which lead to projects that are more complicated. Technology related mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary, machine trade print reading and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

In Grade 10, students are instructed in and demonstrate skills and knowledge in machine safety, measuring tools, speeds and feeds, lathe operation, mill operation, pedestal grinder, various types of cutting tools and drill press operation. Students continue to receive instruction in safety requirements and demonstrate sound safety practices. Technology-related mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary, machine trade print reading and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

In Grade 11, students continue to refine skills introduced in Grade 10. Students receive advanced instruction and training in the use of measuring tools, material types, advanced lathe operation, advanced mill operation, layout and inspection. Introduction to MasterCAM©, computerized numerical control (CNC) machining and programming also begins in grade 11. Students continue to receive instruction in safety requirements and demonstrate sound safety practices. Students will perform in-school manufacturing projects. Students reaching an acceptable level of proficiency may be eligible for Work-Based Learning (WBL). Technology-related mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary, machine trade print reading and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

In Grade 12, students receive instruction and demonstrate skills in more advanced areas of manufacturing technology, such as lay-out and turning irregular shapes, turning eccentric, CNC programming, specialized vertical mill attachments. Students continue to receive instruction in safety requirements and demonstrate sound safety practices. Students will continue to perform in-school machining projects. Students will demonstrate the ability to complete a job application and interview and to perform entry-level job readiness and trade skills.

Students’ at all four grade levels will be assessed against industry-recognized national standards. The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) is the nations’ only American National Standards Institute accredited developer for the precision manufacturing industry. NIMS competency-based assessments are used to demonstrate mastery of program goals and earn students industry-recognized credentials. Students reaching an acceptable level of proficiency may be eligible for Work -Based Learning (WBL). Technology-related mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary, machine trade print reading and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

  • Practice Shop Safety
  • Understand career opportunities in the manufacturing industry
  • Understand manufacturing processes and materials
  • Demonstrate hand/bench tool uses and operations
  • Operate lathes consistent with acceptable industry and safety standards
  • Operate vertical milling machines consistent with acceptable industry and safety standards
  • Demonstrate measuring, part Inspection, and quality control methods
  • Perform machine blueprint reading and sketching
  • Demonstrate layout methods and techniques
  • Perform Precision Grinding consistent with acceptable industry and safety standards
  • Operate Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines consistent with acceptable industry and safety standards
  • Apply CAD/CAM Principles
  • OSHA 1910 (General Industry) certification
  • National Institute of Metalworking (NIMS) Level I Machining Credentials
  • Machinist
  • Tool room machinist
  • CNC machinist
  • Toolmaker apprentice
  • Mold making apprentice
  • Machine maintenance
  • Quality & Inspection
  • Four-slide machine set-up
  • CNC production
  • CNC machine operator

Students enrolled in the CTECS Precision Machining Technology program are given instruction in and demonstrate skills and knowledge in machine safety, measuring tools, precision machining fundamentals using; manual milling machines, lathes, and other metal processing machines. Students’ progress using computer numerical controlled (CNC) machining and turning centers as early as the 10th grade and become proficient in their operation and programming upon graduation.

Our programs are constantly evolving to best align with industry standards both regionally and nationally. For more program details, please click here to visit our home office website.

Vinal Tech Precision Machining,  Sirois Tool  and a WBL student. This was on CPTV.