2026-2027 Course Catalog
CNC Operator/Programmer, Certificate
Location(s):
Ankeny
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 Return to: Programs Available 2026-2027
CNC Operators are entry-level jobs that require someone to interact with CNC machining equipment, loading and unloading parts with minor modifications to the machine settings or programming. The CNC Operator certificate provides students with the knowledge and skills needed for an entry-level CNC machine operator, or entry level programming position. The classes listed below are for students interested only in the CNC Operator certificate. These classes are held in the evening. Each group of classes listed below is offered every other semester. Therefore, the order in which the classes are taken will be dependent on the semester the student begins. Please visit with an academic advisor to determine specific scheduling options.
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Students start Fall or Spring semester
Graduation Requirements
To earn a CNC Operator/Programmer Certificate, a student must complete all required coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average. *Students may start with either Semester 1 or Semester 2 courses depending on class rotation and availability. Please visit with an academic advisor to determine your class schedule. Semester 1*
Visit with an academic advisor to determine if you will begin with Semester 1 or Semester 2 courses. Semester 2*
Visit with an academic advisor to determine if you will begin with Semester 1 or Semester 2 courses. Fixed Costs
Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$215.00 per credit The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change. Varied Costs
Costs for books, supplies, etc., will be determined by course. Some approximate expenses: | Costs | | | Tooling/Supplies | 95 | | Books | 250 new (used may be available) | Approximate total for program: $4,215** **Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost. What Kind of Work Will You Do?
- Operate CNC Machines and support equipment as it relates to production manufacturing
- Inspect machined parts for quality related dimensions and tolerances
- Read and Interpret Industrial Blueprints
- Apply an entry level understanding of CNC programming
- Perform basic set up on a CNC machine
- Perform basic diagnostics and trouble shoot setups for tooling problems
- Communicate with management and the other shifts about the day’s work
What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?
- Apply math skills in specific machine setups and operations.
- Organize your work, planning each step of the job from beginning to end.
- Maintain a steady hand for precise movements and use your eyes for close work for long periods of time.
- Be able to lift 25 to 50 pounds.
- Demonstrate imagination and creativity on the various machine setups and operations.
- Demonstrate a positive attitude and work closely with others.
- Basic computer management skills.
- Must be able to follow industry standard safety guidelines.
- A quick reaction time is critical in this career field. The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light picture) when it appears is necessary to avoid injury.
What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?
- There is danger of accidents due to the high-powered, fast-moving machine parts.
- Most of the work will be done in a standing position.
- Students planning to transfer to a four-year institution should discuss options with a DMACC advisor regarding requirements for credit transfer.
Program Competencies
- Demonstrate the safe and effective procedures and method in the proper use of tools, machines, and measuring tools
- Interpret data to industry standards
- Create components using standard and advanced machining processes to industry standards
Competencies revised date
AY2026 Nondiscrimination Statement
It is the policy of Des Moines Area Community College not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact Director, Enterprise Risk Management, 2006 South Ankeny Boulevard, Bldg 22, Ankeny, IA 50023, 515-513-0655, feedback@dmacc.edu or the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, Telephone: (303) 844-5695 FAX: (303) 844-4303, TDD 800-877-8339 Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov (2026) |
Return to: Programs Available 2026-2027
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