Waukesha County Technical College
Machine Tool Operation

Machine Tool Operation

Program Overview

Degree Type

33-credit Technical Diploma

Program Code

31-420-1

Time to Degree

1 year

Start Date

August / January

How You'll Learn

On Campus

Program OverviewApplication DeadlinesProgram Cost

Machinists, or machine tool operators, produce parts to precise specifications, generally from setup to operation. In this program, acquire skills for the safe operation of engine lathes, vertical milling machines and surface grinders. Learn to operate computer numerical control (CNC) machines, interpret engineering drawings and use applied mathematics.

Deadlines To Know*

Fall 2023 Start

  • Application Opens: October 1, 2022
  • Application Deadline: August 7, 2023

Spring 2024 Start

  • Application Opens: April 1, 2023
  • Application Deadline: January 8, 2024

Summer 2023 Start

  • This program cannot be started in summer.

* Submit all checklist items by the application deadline. Apply early; deadlines are subject to change based on program demand.

Tuition Costs

The cost of your degree depends on a number of factors, including where you live, how your program is delivered, how long it takes to finish your program and the financial aid you receive. Explore current tuition and fees.

Additional Estimated Costs

  • Access to any computer or tablet
  • MTO Tool Kit: $805
  • MTO 3/4 Tool Kit: $246
  • Safety equipment (shoes/glasses): $100

How To Apply

  • Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
  • Submit a copy of one of the following to demonstrate your math skills:
      • High school GPA of 2.60 or above. Transcript must include completed coursework through the 11th grade.*
      • ACT, ACCUPLACER® or GED - 2014 Series (165 or higher).*
      • Prior college coursework may meet this requirement in whole or in part. Courses must be in the specific area(s), and you must have earned a grade of C or better (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) in the courses.*
      • If none of the above apply, sign up for the ACCUPLACER® placement test.

*Unofficial copies of these documents can be sent to admissions@wctc.edu.

Questions on the application process? Visit the Admissions page or contact an Enrollment Counselor.

Apply Online
 

Program Details

Questions? We'd love to help! Connect with our Outreach team by filling out our online form or by email at outreach@wctc.edu.

If you have an aptitude for math, are interested in building things, working with machinery and equipment, and are mechanically inclined, a career as a machine tool operator may be right for you.

  • CNC Operator
  • Tool Room Machinist
  • Machine Tool Operator

This program is open to qualified high school applicants. Learn more >

$33,500 – $42,900 annually

Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI). Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements.

Check the WCTC Graduate Success Report to view our graduates’ entry wages.

As a program student, you are eligible to receive:

  • Financial aid loans
  • Scholarships
  • Other forms of assistance

Learn more about financial aid.

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Program Courses
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Program PDF
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Career Pathway

What Makes This Program Unique?

1

Develop skills in WCTC’s state-of-the-art Terry Lutz Integrated Manufacturing Center.

2

Take part in a state and national award-winning SkillsUSA team.

3

Work on cross-functional projects with students from other areas of manufacturing.

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Program Pathway

Earn certificates, technical diplomas and/or industry credentials along this pathway. Start with some courses for entry-level employment, and continue with additional courses for higher wages and job advancement.

Tool and Die Making Pathway
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Prior Learning
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Certificates
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Technical Diploma
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Associate Degree
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Bachelor's Degree

Earn credit for prior learning for the college-level knowledge and skills that you've already acquired through advanced high school classes, previous ollege coursework, self-study, military training work or volunteer experience.

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Technical Diploma

WCTC has credit transfer agreements with many four-year institutions that allow our degree graduates to transfer credits into a baccalaureate program, often at junior-level standing.

More Credit Opportunities

High School Dual Credit

Dual enrollment offers high school students an opportunity to get a head start in high-demand fields while earning college credits.

Learn More

Credit for Prior Learning

You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired through prior coursework, work experience and more.

Learn More

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