Career Opportunities and Work Life

Skills You'll Need

Salary Ranges

The Classroom Experience

Certificate & Degree Options

The Classroom Experience - Machine Tool Technology

Lake Michigan College's Machine Tool Technology program gives you hands-on experience with the equipment found in today's work place. Through activities in the machine tool lab, you will practice the coordination and technical skills needed on the machines. Along with assigned bookwork, you will be working on up-to-date manual and computerized equipment.

Skills Taught The program is designed so that you will begin your hands-on experience with manual machines including drill presses and lathes. Although most companies use computerized equipment, it is important to learn the basic workings of a manual machine as this will provide you with a strong knowledge of the fundamentals of the trade and make the transition to computerized machining equipment is easier. As you progress in the program, you will move on to more high-tech equipment including CNC machines. Through projects you will complete on this industry-standard equipment, you will gain the skills employers are seeking in new employees.

In machine tool technology classes, you will typically spend four hours in the machine tool lab in hands-on experience for every one hour in classroom lecture.

Courses in your major will give you background in welding, math, physics, technical drawing and computer literacy. All of this information will be used and applied in the workplace.

Technology in the Classroom
A variety of technologies are used in conjunction with traditional lecture and hands-on activities. PowerPoint presentations, videos, DVDs, the Internet and materials available on Blackboard - the College's instructional Intranet - play an important role in class.

Internships and Co-Op Experiences
Neither internships nor co-op experiences are required for completion of the machine tool technology program. However, you are encouraged to gain this type of experience, as it will help you break into the field and give you valuable experience that will make you more marketable when you graduate.