Machine Tool Technology

Machine Tool Technology


James Tucker: Instructor email

Program Description and Nature of Work

Almost every product made by American industry contains metal parts or is manufactured by machines made of metal parts. Many of these parts are cut to precise dimensions by machine workers who use a wide variety of machine tools. The Tennessee Technology Center at McKenzie's Machine Tool Technology program prepares students for jobs in the metalworking industry as machinist. Students must enjoy precision work, be analytical, work well in teams, have good manual dexterity and spatial aptitude (visualization skills). Typical tasks include setting up machines, operating controls and checking accuracy in the process of manufacturing metal parts for motors, machinery, tools, dies, gauges, etc.

Technical information is covered in lecture and demonstrations; practical application takes place in the laboratory. The Machine Tool program is a technical diploma program focusing on hands-on machine shop experience.

Instruction is given in related blueprint reading, mathematics, precision measuring and basic metallurgy. Instruction is also offered on basic machine tools such as the conventional lathes, milling machines, grinders and drill presses. Also emphasized in the program are the computerized lathe and milling machine, as well as on the wire EDM machine, CADD and CAM Systems and the coordinate measuring machine.

Over one million persons are employed as machinists, tool and die makers, instrument makers, machine tools operators and set-up and lay-out persons. There are many advancement opportunities for the experienced machinist. Many become foremen, others may, with specialized training, become tool and die makers.

Course objectives:

To assist the student in developing correct work habits and techniques for operating the machine tools and other equipment used in the machining trades.
To assist the student in developing initiative, good judgment, and correct attitudes, for accepting individual responsibility for Machine Tool Technology work.
To help the students acquire a respect for the skill and craftsmanship needed by the machine tool and allied industries, in order to compete in today’s industrial world.
To present a variety of experiences and problems that will help the student develop the ability to cope with all practical problems facing a trainee of this trade.
To acquaint the student will all the machine tools, and processes required in Machine Tool Technology work.
To familiarize students with the different types of materials and supplies used in the trade.
To teach the skills and related technology required for the student to perform all basic operations on the machine tools.
To make accident prevention and safety a part of the student’s training.
To reach blueprint reading and principles of mechanical devices, relating to manufacturing and machining processes.

Course Awards and Length

Machinist I                                                  Diploma                           1944 hours                                                                     Maintenance Machinist                              Diploma                           1296 hours
Machine Set-Up Operator                          Certificate                          972 hours
Production Machine Tender                       Certificate                          648 hours