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Back to home page ProgramsManufacturingPrecision Metal MachiningMachine Tool Technician - Precision MachinistCourses
Printed on 7/1/2025

Machine Tool Technician - Precision Machinist

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32-420-1 Technical Diploma (TD) Part Time, Full Time 61 Credits Financial Aid Eligible Location*: Appleton

*If general education courses are required, they may be available at multiple locations.

Machinists make up the majority of workers in the metalworking trades and create precise parts from CAD drawings for a variety of industries. Some of those industries include machinery manufacturing, transportation, printing, medical, food industries and defense. In this program, you’ll receive hands-on training in machine set-up, interpreting CAD drawings, determining the order of operations, part programming, operating machine tools both manual and CNC (computer numerical controlled), and precision inspection of completed parts. You’ll learn how to shape parts to precise dimensions from a variety of materials, ranging from plastics to various types of steel and alloys. Plus, you’ll gain skills using a variety of machine tools including lathes, milling machines, surface and cylindrical grinders, drill presses and saws.

COURSE LIST

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Course list for reference only. Current students please refer to your individualized program plan or see your advisor.
**Outside effort hours are an estimate based on state standards, and may vary from person to person.

    Occupational Specific (52 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Early College Credit Options
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • Related Welding
    10-442-120
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 10442120
    • Credits: 1.00

    Prepares students with the common techniques and procedures for SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and FCAW welding in a repair or machine shop environment. Topics include welding metal, cutting metal with plasma and oxy-fuel, and metal identification. Laboratory activities will provide the student with hands-on practice.

  • Manufacturing Techniques, Cold
    32-420-314
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 32420314
    • Credits: 1.00

    Focuses on the manufacturing processes not necessarily done in a machine shop and covers techniques performed on materials in a cold state. Topics include cold-working metals, metal stamping and forming in presses, recent techniques in metalworking, and polishing and finishing of metal surfaces.

  • Measurement & Benchwork 1
    32-420-331
    3Credit
    108
    54

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420331
    • Credits: 3.00

    Builds a foundation for subsequent training in machining, industrial maintenance or other industrial areas requiring correct and accurate use of hand tools and precision measuring instruments in a safe manner. Prepares students for entry-level machine operator or maintenance machinist position in an industrial plant.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:
  • Measurement & Benchwork 2
    32-420-332
    3Credit
    108
    54

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420332
    • Credits: 3.00

    Continues to build a foundation for subsequent training in machining, industrial maintenance or other industrial areas requiring correct and accurate use of hand tools and precision measuring instruments in a safe manner. Prepares students for entry-level machine operator or maintenance machinist positions in an industrial plant.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ANY of the following options:

    • METALS 32420331 - Measurement & Benchwork 1

    • Instructor Consent
  • Engine Lathe 1
    32-420-333
    3Credit
    108
    54

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420333
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces aspiring machinists or maintenance mechanics to the basic operations and safety practices associated with the engine lathe. Prepares students for entry-level machine operator or maintenance machinist positions in an industrial plant.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • METALS 32420332 - Measurement & Benchwork 2
  • Engine Lathe 2
    32-420-334
    3Credit
    108
    54

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420334
    • Credits: 3.00

    Continues to introduce aspiring machinists or maintenance mechanics to the basic operations and safety practices associated with the engine lathe. Prepares students for entry-level machine operator or maintenance machinist positions in an industrial plant.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ANY of the following options:

    • METALS 32420333 - Engine Lathe 1

    • Instructor Consent
  • Manual Milling Machines 1
    32-420-335
    3Credit
    108
    54

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420335
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces aspiring machinists or maintenance mechanics to the basic operations and safety practices associated with the manual milling machine. Prepares students for entry-level machine operator or maintenance machinist positions in an industrial plant.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ANY of the following options:

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ANY of the following options:

    • METALS 32420334 - Engine Lathe 2

    • Instructor Consent
  • Manual Milling Machines 2
    32-420-336
    3Credit
    108
    54

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420336
    • Credits: 3.00

    Continues to introduce aspiring machinists or maintenance mechanics to the basic operations and safety practices associated with the manual milling machine. Prepares students for entry-level machine operator or maintenance machinist positions in an industrial plant.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ANY of the following options:

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ANY of the following options:

    • METALS 32420335 - Manual Milling Machines 1

    • Instructor Consent
  • Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 1
    32-420-337
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420337
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces aspiring machinist or maintenance mechanics to advanced manual machining practices. Prepares students for entry-level machine operator or maintenance machinist positions in an industrial plant.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • MATH 31804307 - Math for the Trades

    • METALS 32420331 - Measurement & Benchwork 1

    • METALS 32420332 - Measurement & Benchwork 2

    • METALS 32420333 - Engine Lathe 1

    • METALS 32420334 - Engine Lathe 2

    • METALS 32420335 - Manual Milling Machines 1

    • METALS 32420336 - Manual Milling Machines 2

    • METALS 32420350 - Blueprint Reading, Basic-MTO

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Instructor Consent
  • Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 2
    32-420-338
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420338
    • Credits: 3.00

    Continues to introduce aspiring machinists or maintenance mechanics to advanced manual machining practices. Prepares students for entry-level machine operator or maintenance machinist positions in an industrial plant.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • MATH 31804307 - Math for the Trades

    • METALS 32420331 - Measurement & Benchwork 1

    • METALS 32420332 - Measurement & Benchwork 2

    • METALS 32420333 - Engine Lathe 1

    • METALS 32420334 - Engine Lathe 2

    • METALS 32420335 - Manual Milling Machines 1

    • METALS 32420336 - Manual Milling Machines 2

    • METALS 32420337 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 1​

    • METALS 32420350 - Blueprint Reading, Basic-MTO

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Instructor Consent
  • Grinding Processes 1
    32-420-339
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420339
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces aspiring machinists or maintenance mechanics to precision grinding machines. Prepares students for entry-level machine operator or maintenance machinist positions in an industrial plant.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • MATH 31804307 - Math for the Trades

    • METALS 32420331 - Measurement & Benchwork 1

    • METALS 32420332 - Measurement & Benchwork 2

    • METALS 32420333 - Engine Lathe 1

    • METALS 32420334 - Engine Lathe 2

    • METALS 32420335 - Manual Milling Machines 1

    • METALS 32420336 - Manual Milling Machines 2

    • METALS 32420337 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 1​

    • METALS 32420338 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 2

    • METALS 32420350 - Blueprint Reading, Basic-MTO

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Instructor Consent
  • CNC M/G Code 1
    32-420-341
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420341
    • Credits: 3.00

    Upgrades the skills of established machinists. Prepares students to become a higher level machine operator or machinist in an industrial plant.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • MATH 31804307 - Math for the Trades

    • METALS 32420331 - Measurement & Benchwork 1

    • METALS 32420332 - Measurement & Benchwork 2

    • METALS 32420333 - Engine Lathe 1

    • METALS 32420334 - Engine Lathe 2

    • METALS 32420335 - Manual Milling Machines 1

    • METALS 32420336 - Manual Milling Machines 2

    • METALS 32420337 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 1​

    • METALS 32420338 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 2

    • METALS 32420339 - Grinding Processes 1​

    • METALS 32420353 - Blueprint Reading, Adv-MTO

    • METALS 32420354 - Intro to NC - MTO

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Instructor Consent
  • CNC M/G Code 2
    32-420-342
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420342
    • Credits: 3.00

    Continues to upgrade the skills of established machinists. Prepares students to become a higher level machine operator or machinist in an industrial plant.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • MATH 31804307 - Math for the Trades

    • METALS 32420331 - Measurement & Benchwork 1

    • METALS 32420332 - Measurement & Benchwork 2

    • METALS 32420333 - Engine Lathe 1​

    • METALS 32420334 - Engine Lathe 2

    • METALS 32420335 - Manual Milling Machines 1

    • METALS 32420336 - Manual Milling Machines 2

    • METALS 32420337 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 1

    • METALS 32420338 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 2

    • METALS 32420339 - Grinding Processes 1

    • METALS 32420341 - CNC M/G Code 1

    • METALS 32420353 - Blueprint Reading, Adv-MTO

    • METALS 32420354 - Intro to NC - MTO

    OR ALL of the following:

    • ​Instructor Consent
  • CNC, Advanced 1
    32-420-343
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420343
    • Credits: 3.00

    Upgrades the skills of established machinists. Prepares students to become a higher level machine operator or machinist in an industrial plant.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • MATH 31804307 - Math for the Trades

    • METALS 32420331 - Measurement & Benchwork 1

    • METALS 32420332 - Measurement & Benchwork 2

    • METALS 32420333 - Engine Lathe 1​

    • METALS 32420334 - Engine Lathe 2

    • METALS 32420335 - Manual Milling Machines 1

    • METALS 32420336 - Manual Milling Machines 2

    • METALS 32420337 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 1​

    • METALS 32420338 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 2

    • METALS 32420339 - Grinding Processes 1​

    • METALS 32420341 - CNC M/G Code 1

    • METALS 32420342 - CNC M/G Code 2

    • METALS 32420353 - Blueprint Reading, Adv-MTO

    • METALS 32420354 - Intro to NC - MTO

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Instructor Consent
  • CNC, Advanced 2
    32-420-344
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420344
    • Credits: 3.00

    Continues to upgrade the skills of established machinists. Prepares students to become a higher level machine operator or machinist in an industrial plant.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • MATH 31804307 - Math for the Trades

    • METALS 32420331 - Measurement & Benchwork 1

    • METALS 32420332 - Measurement & Benchwork 2

    • METALS 32420333 - Engine Lathe 1​

    • METALS 32420334 - Engine Lathe 2

    • METALS 32420335 - Manual Milling Machines 1

    • METALS 32420336 - Manual Milling Machines 2

    • METALS 32420337 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 1​

    • METALS 32420338 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 2

    • METALS 32420339 - Grinding Processes 1 ​

    • METALS 32420341 - CNC M/G Code 1

    • METALS 32420342 - CNC M/G Code 2

    • METALS 32420343 - CNC, Advanced 1

    • METALS 32420353 - Blueprint Reading, Adv-MTO

    • METALS 32420354 - Intro to NC - MTO

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Instructor Consent
  • CAM Programming & Toolmaking 1
    32-420-345
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420345
    • Credits: 3.00

    Covers the basics of MasterCAM Mill and Lathe with the emphasis on producing Tool path. Tool making design and economics is also emphasized in this course.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • MATH 31804307 - Math for the Trades

    • METALS 32420331 - Measurement & Benchwork 1

    • METALS 32420332 - Measurement & Benchwork 2

    • METALS 32420333 - Engine Lathe 1​

    • METALS 32420334 - Engine Lathe 2

    • METALS 32420335 - Manual Milling Machines 1

    • METALS 32420336 - Manual Milling Machines 2

    • METALS 32420337 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 1​

    • METALS 32420338 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 2

    • METALS 32420339 - Grinding Processes 1​

    • METALS 32420341 - CNC M/G Code 1

    • METALS 32420342 - CNC M/G Code 2

    • METALS 32420343 - CNC, Advanced 1

    • METALS 32420344 - CNC, Advanced 2

    • METALS 32420353 - Blueprint Reading, Adv-MTO

    • METALS 32420354 - Intro to NC - MTO

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Instructor Consent
  • CAM Programming & Toolmaking 2
    32-420-346
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420346
    • Credits: 3.00

    Continues to cover the basics of MasterCAM Mill and Lathe with the emphasis on producing Tool path. Tool making design and economics is also emphasized in this course.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • MATH 31804307 - Math for the Trades

    • METALS 32420331 - Measurement & Benchwork 1

    • METALS 32420332 - Measurement & Benchwork 2

    • METALS 32420333 - Engine Lathe 1​

    • METALS 32420334 - Engine Lathe 2

    • METALS 32420335 - Manual Milling Machines 1

    • METALS 32420336 - Manual Milling Machines 2

    • METALS 32420337 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 1​

    • METALS 32420338 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 2

    • METALS 32420339 - Grinding Processes 1​

    • METALS 32420341 - CNC M/G Code 1

    • METALS 32420342 - CNC M/G Code 2

    • METALS 32420343 - CNC, Advanced 1

    • METALS 32420344 - CNC, Advanced 2

    • METALS 32420345 - CAM Programming & Toolmaking 1

    • METALS 32420353 - Blueprint Reading, Adv-MTO

    • METALS 32420354 - Intro to NC - MTO

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Instructor Consent
  • Blueprint Reading, Basic-MTO
    32-420-350
    1Credit
    36
    18

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 32420350
    • Credits: 1.00

    Focuses on the interpretation of machine drawings. Students study isometric and orthographic views on drawing and develop simple working drawings. Topics include dimensions, internal and external threads, holes, bores, fillets, radii, surfaces, planes, metric and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.

  • Blueprint Reading, Adv-MTO
    32-420-353
    1Credit
    36
    18

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 32420353
    • Credits: 1.00

    Covers advanced print reading including geometric dimensioning & tolerancing, welding, and assembly prints.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • METALS 32420350 - Blueprint Reading, Basic-MTO​
  • Introduction to Numerical Control - MTO
    32-420-354
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 32420354
    • Credits: 3.00

    Upgrades the skills of established machinists. Prepares students to become a higher level machine operator or machinist in an industrial plant.

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • MATH 31804307 - Math for the Trades

    • METALS 32420331 - Measurement & Benchwork 1

    • METALS 32420332 - Measurement & Benchwork 2

    • METALS 32420333 - Engine Lathe 1

    • METALS 32420334 - Engine Lathe 2

    • METALS 32420335 - Manual Milling Machines 1

    • METALS 32420336 - Manual Milling Machines 2

    • METALS 32420337 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 1

    • METALS 32420338 - Manual Machine Tools, Adv. 2

    • METALS 32420339 - Grinding Processes 1

    • METALS 32420350 - Blueprint Reading, Basic-MTO

    • METALS 32420353 - Blueprint Reading, Adv-MTO

    ​

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Instructor Consent

    Occupational Supportive (9 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Early College Credit Options
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • Communication, Applied
    31-801-318
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 31801318
    • Credits: 2.00

    Focuses on technical vocabulary, business writing, job search strategies, interpersonal communication and oral presentation skills through individual and group activities. Open enrollment for all students. It is recommended, but not required, that the student have basic computer skills, HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACPL Read 54+/Sent 83+, Next Gen Read 250+/Sent 237+, ACT Read 18+/Engl 15+ OR Read Prep 10838105/Sent Prep 74851745 OR not pursuing a degree. Personal/professional development students who have not taken the ACCUPLACER test need to consult with their instructor during the first class.

  • Math for the Trades
    31-804-307
    2Credit
    72
    36

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 31804307
    • Credits: 2.00

    Focuses on the math skills needed for various trades. Topics include arithmetic fundamentals, percent and proportion applications, the metric system, conversions, practical geometry, measurement applications, signed numbers and formula evaluation. Micrometer, equation solving and standard rule measurement units are included as needed. Scientific calculator use is introduced as needed.

  • Human Relations
    31-809-300
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 31809300
    • Credits: 2.00

    Explores practical applications of issues in psychology and human behavior that affect a person's daily life. The objective is to enhance the student's quality of life by developing an awareness of the connection between his/her personal life and work life. This course is intended for technical diploma students.

  • Metallurgy, MTO
    32-420-351
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 32420351
    • Credits: 1.00

    Introduces the science of metals and alloys. The crystalline structure and microstructure of metals and their effect on the properties of metals are studied. Prime consideration is given to heat treatment operations dealing with ferrous metals.

  • CAD/CAM-Machine Tool
    32-420-352
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 32420352
    • Credits: 2.00

    Includes the fundamentals of drafting through the use of sketches on grid paper. In addition, the student will also be introduced to commands and CAD/CAM techniques using Mastercam. Mastercam is a CAD/CAM system that is used in industry.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • METALS 32420353 - Blueprint Reading, Adv-MTO
×

Expected Competencies

For more information visit our Credit For Prior Learning page.
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Eligible Dual Credit Course

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.


  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.
  • Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

Process:

As part of the annual course planning, students and families should meet with their High School Guidance Counselor to discuss future college and career goals. This conversation will help identify Dual Credit courses that best align with specific pathways.

×

Recommended Start College Now Course

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

×

Eligible Dual Credit & Recommended Start College Now Course:

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.

  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.

**Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

×

N/A

This course is not available for Dual Credit or Start College Now due to factors such as course rigor, necessary equipment, and prerequisite requirements.