The precision metals manufacturing program enables students to develop advanced skills in setting up and operating machine tools to produce precision parts to specifications and develop the required skills in preparation for automated manufacturing. Students learn all required areas of manual machining before embarking on the high tech skills of computer numerical control (CNC) machine tools. Students are involved in all aspects of the machining process, from blueprint reading and interpretation, precision measuring, through material removal.

NMCC’s precision metals manufacturing program features new, state-of-the-art equipment and an experienced instructor from the metals manufacturing industry. There is a strong general education component integrated into the program to satisfy demands for appropriate work force skills.

Current metals manufacturing industry members in Aroostook County continually cite a lack of trained workforce as a deterrent to their growth, and several companies looking to move to the area cite the need for a trained workforce before they can commit to such a move. A number of shops in the area are committed to providing summer work and/or cooperative work experience for NMCC precision metals manufacturing students.

Graduates should be able to find employment in regional or state manufacturing facilities leading to opportunities as machine tool operators, precision machinists, tool and die makers, CNC operators, CNC programmers, and quality control inspectors. An agreement with the University of Southern Maine allows graduates from this program to enter USM with junior status, providing a pathway for graduation with a baccalaureate degree in two additional years.