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What you should know before enrolling in an AJAC open manufacturing course.

Course Readiness Guide

Core Competencies for Success

Not sure if you’re ready for an AJAC apprenticeship course? This guide outlines the foundational knowledge and skills that can help you succeed before you enroll.

These core competencies are recommended starting points, not additional course requirements. Use them to identify areas where you may want to strengthen your skills before beginning a course and to better understand what you’ll be expected to know as you progress through your apprenticeship.

Machining

APM 101 | Precision Machining 1

  • Basic Measurement & Math: Apply basic arithmetic, fractions, decimals, and measurement concepts using common measuring tools.  
  • Technical Communication: Read and follow basic written instructions, identify information on simple technical drawings, and communicate clearly in a shop environment.  
  • Shop Safety & Tool Use: Demonstrate basic shop safety practices, use appropriate PPE, and safely handle common hand tools.

APM 102 | Precision Machining 2

  • Machining Fundamentals: Demonstrate familiarity with basic manual machining processes, machine tools, cutting tools, and shop terminology.
  • Precision Measurement: Use common measuring tools and understand basic dimensions, tolerances, and the importance of accuracy.
  • Technical Drawings & Work Instructions: Interpret basic dimensions and follow job plans, technical drawings, and written machining instructions. 

 APM 103 | Engineering Drawings

  • Basic Measurement & Math: Apply basic arithmetic, fractions, decimals, and measurement concepts to understand dimensional information.
  • Technical Communication: Read and follow written instructions, recognize common technical terminology, and communicate information accurately.
  • Basic Spatial Reasoning: Understand basic two-dimensional shapes, dimensions, and the relationship between objects and their physical form.

APM 121 | Shop Algebra

  • Basic Arithmetic: Perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with whole numbers, decimals, and fractions. 
  • Mathematical Reasoning: Understand basic relationships between numbers, including ratios, proportions, percentages, and order of operations.
  • Coordinate & Number Concepts: Understand positive and negative numbers, basic number lines, and the concept of locating points on a grid. 

APM 122 | Applied Geometry and Trigonometry

  • Algebraic Reasoning: Apply basic algebraic operations, solve simple equations, and manipulate formulas.
  • Measurement & Units: Work comfortably with fractions, decimals, measurements, and common units used in manufacturing.
  • Basic Geometry: Identify common geometric shapes, angles, lines, and basic geometric relationships. 

APM 123 | CNC Operation and Setup

  • Machining Fundamentals: Demonstrate familiarity with basic machining processes, cutting tools, and machine shop terminology.
  • Technical Drawings & Measurement: Read basic dimensions on technical drawings and use common measuring tools to verify part dimensions.
  • Basic Shop Safety: Apply machine shop safety practices, use appropriate PPE, and follow established work instructions and procedures. 

APM 201 | GD&T and Precision Fits

  • Engineering Drawing Interpretation: Read basic technical drawings, including dimensions, views, symbols, and notes.
  • Measurement & Tolerances: Understand basic dimensional measurements and the relationship between nominal dimensions, tolerances, and acceptable part variation.
  • Basic Geometry: Understand fundamental concepts involving lines, angles, circles, planes, and geometric relationships. 

APM 202 | CNC Programming Mill

  • CNC Fundamentals: Demonstrate basic knowledge of CNC machine operation, machine coordinates, tooling, and common CNC terminology.
  • Technical Drawing Interpretation: Read engineering drawings and identify dimensions, features, and machining requirements.
  • Shop Math: Apply basic algebra, geometry, and coordinate concepts to dimensional and machining problems. 

APM 203 | CNC Programming Lathe

  • CNC Programming Fundamentals: Read and interpret basic G&M code and understand CNC program structure and sequencing.
  • CNC Operation: Demonstrate familiarity with CNC machine operation, coordinates, tooling, offsets, and basic setup procedures.
  • Technical Drawing & Shop Math: Interpret machining dimensions and apply basic algebra, geometry, and coordinate concepts to manufacturing problems.

APM 221 | Materials, Processes and References

  • Manufacturing Fundamentals: Demonstrate basic knowledge of machining processes, manufacturing terminology, and common shop practices.
  • Technical Documentation: Read and follow technical instructions, specifications, safety information, and basic manufacturing documentation.
  • Research & Reference Skills: Locate, interpret, and apply information from technical references, tables, charts, and written procedures.

APM 222 | Inspection

  • Precision Measurement: Use common precision measuring tools and understand basic dimensional measurements and tolerances.
  • Technical Drawing Interpretation: Read dimensions, tolerances, and basic geometric information on engineering drawings.
  • Measurement Fundamentals: Understand the importance of accuracy, precision, repeatability, and consistent measurement techniques.

APM 223 | Advanced Machining Technologies

  • Manufacturing Fundamentals: Demonstrate knowledge of common machining processes, equipment, tooling, and shop terminology.
  • Machining & Materials: Understand basic relationships between material properties, cutting processes, tooling, and machining performance.
  • Technical Problem Solving: Follow technical procedures, identify basic machining problems, and apply logical problem-solving skills in a shop environment.
Maintenance

IMMA 101 | Technical Drawings

  • Basic Measurement: Apply basic measurement concepts and use common measuring tools accurately.
  • Technical Communication: Read and follow written instructions and recognize common technical terminology.
  • Spatial Reasoning: Understand basic shapes, dimensions, and the relationship between two-dimensional representations and physical objects.

IMMA 102 | Lifting and Rigging

  • Basic Safety: Follow established safety procedures, use appropriate PPE, and recognize common workplace hazards.
  • Basic Math & Measurement: Apply basic arithmetic, fractions, decimals, and measurement concepts.
  • Communication: Follow verbal and written instructions and communicate clearly with coworkers in a work environment.

IMMA 103 | Precision Machining

  • Basic Measurement & Math: Apply basic arithmetic, fractions, decimals, and measurement concepts using common measuring tools.
  • Technical Communication: Read and follow basic work instructions and interpret simple dimensions and technical information.
  • Shop Safety & Tool Use: Demonstrate safe work practices, use appropriate PPE, and safely handle common hand and power tools.

IMMA 121 | Maintenance Welding

  • Shop Safety: Demonstrate safe work practices, understand the importance of PPE, and recognize common shop hazards.
  • Basic Measurement: Use common measuring tools and apply basic measurement concepts to materials and workpieces.
  • Technical Communication: Read and follow written instructions and communicate clearly when working with tools, equipment, and materials.

IMMA 122 | Electrical Systems

  • Basic Math: Apply basic arithmetic, fractions, decimals, percentages, and measurement concepts.
  • Technical Communication: Read and follow written instructions and recognize basic technical symbols and terminology.
  • Problem Solving: Follow a logical sequence of steps to identify problems and determine appropriate solutions.

IMMA 123 | Machine Automation Theory

  • Basic Electrical & Mechanical Concepts: Demonstrate familiarity with basic electrical and mechanical systems, components, and terminology.
  • Technical Communication: Read and follow technical instructions, diagrams, and basic schematics.
  • Problem Solving: Apply logical reasoning to identify problems, follow troubleshooting steps, and determine appropriate solutions.

IMMA 201 | Math for Industrial Maintenance

  • Basic Arithmetic: Perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with whole numbers, decimals, and fractions.
  • Mathematical Reasoning: Understand ratios, proportions, percentages, and order of operations.
  • Measurement: Apply basic measurement concepts and work with common units used in industrial and manufacturing environments.

IMMA 202 | Maintenance Machining

  • Machining Fundamentals: Demonstrate familiarity with basic manual machining processes, machine tools, cutting tools, and shop terminology.
  • Precision Measurement: Use common measuring tools and understand basic dimensions, tolerances, and the importance of accuracy.
  • Technical Drawings & Work Instructions: Interpret basic dimensions and follow job plans, technical drawings, and written machining instructions.

IMMA 203 | Mechanical Systems

  • Mechanical Reasoning: Understand basic mechanical concepts such as force, motion, mechanical advantage, and the function of common mechanical components.
  • Technical Communication: Read and follow basic technical instructions, diagrams, and equipment documentation.
  • Basic Measurement & Tools: Use common hand tools and measuring tools safely and accurately.

IMMA 221 | Fluid Power Systems

  • Basic Mechanical Concepts: Understand basic concepts of force, pressure, motion, and mechanical systems.
  • Technical Communication: Read and follow technical instructions and recognize basic symbols, diagrams, and terminology.
  • Basic Math & Measurement: Apply basic arithmetic, measurement, and unit conversion concepts to practical problems.

IMMA 222 | Materials, Processes, and References

  • Manufacturing Fundamentals: Demonstrate basic knowledge of common manufacturing processes, shop terminology, and material handling practices.
  • Technical Communication: Read and follow technical instructions, specifications, safety information, and written procedures.
  • Research & Reference Skills: Locate and interpret information from technical references, tables, charts, and written documentation.

IMMA 223 | Mechatronics Capstone Project

  • Industrial Systems Knowledge: Demonstrate foundational knowledge of mechanical, electrical, fluid power, and automated systems.
  • Technical Problem Solving: Analyze problems, follow troubleshooting procedures, and apply knowledge from multiple technical disciplines.
  • Tools & Technical Documentation: Safely use common industrial tools and equipment and interpret basic technical drawings, diagrams, and instructions.
Operations Specialist

OS 101 | Planning and Management of Operational Resources

  • Basic Math & Data Skills: Apply basic arithmetic, percentages, and quantitative reasoning to workplace information.
  • Organization & Planning: Organize tasks, information, and priorities to meet established deadlines and objectives.
  • Workplace Communication: Read and interpret workplace documents and communicate information clearly with coworkers and supervisors.

OS 102 | Advanced Communications

  • Basic Communication: Communicate clearly and professionally in common workplace situations.
  • Written Communication: Write clear, organized messages using appropriate grammar, spelling, and professional language.
  • Workplace Interaction: Listen actively, respond appropriately to others, and participate constructively in team discussions.

OS 103 | LEAN and 6 Sigma Foundations (Green Belt)

  • Basic Data Skills: Read and interpret basic tables, charts, and numerical information.
  • Problem Solving: Identify problems, evaluate information, and apply logical steps to develop solutions.
  • Process Awareness: Understand basic workplace processes and recognize opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, or safety.

OS 104 | Manufacturing Leadership Development

  • Professional Communication: Communicate clearly and respectfully with coworkers, supervisors, and team members.
  • Teamwork: Participate effectively in teams, contribute to group decisions, and demonstrate respect for different perspectives.
  • Accountability & Professionalism: Take responsibility for assigned tasks, follow through on commitments, and demonstrate a willingness to learn and support others.

OS 105 | Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP Foundations)

  • Basic Computer Skills: Navigate common computer applications, enter information accurately, and manage basic digital files and documents.
  • Basic Business Processes: Understand the basic relationship between customers, vendors, purchasing, inventory, production, and delivery.
  • Data & Detail Orientation: Accurately enter, review, and interpret basic numerical and business information.

OS 106 | Production and Project Management

  • Organization & Planning: Organize tasks, manage priorities, and work toward established deadlines.
  • Problem Solving: Identify basic workplace problems, gather relevant information, and consider practical solutions.
  • Team Communication: Communicate effectively with team members, provide and receive feedback, and participate constructively in collaborative work.
Logistics Specialist

LS 101 | Operations and Supply Chain Essentials

  • Basic Business Awareness: Understand basic workplace functions such as purchasing, production, inventory, sales, and customer service.
  • Organization & Planning: Organize information, follow established processes, and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
  • Problem Solving: Identify basic workplace problems, gather relevant information, and consider practical solutions.

LS 102 | Advanced Communications

  • Basic Communication: Communicate clearly and professionally in common workplace situations.
  • Written Communication: Write clear, organized messages using appropriate grammar, spelling, and professional language.
  • Workplace Interaction: Listen actively, respond appropriately, and participate constructively in team discussions.

LS 103 | LEAN and 6 Sigma Foundations (Green Belt)

  • Basic Data Skills: Read and interpret basic tables, charts, and numerical information.
  • Problem Solving: Identify problems, evaluate information, and use logical steps to develop solutions.
  • Process Awareness: Understand basic workplace processes and recognize opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, or safety.

LS 104 | Inventory and Warehouse Management

  • Basic Math & Measurement: Apply basic arithmetic, percentages, units of measurement, and counting skills to workplace tasks.
  • Organization & Attention to Detail: Accurately organize, track, and record materials, products, and information.
  • Workplace Safety: Follow established safety procedures, use appropriate PPE, and recognize common workplace hazards.

LS 105 | Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP Foundations)

  • Basic Computer Skills: Navigate common computer applications, enter information accurately, and manage basic digital files and documents.
  • Data & Attention to Detail: Accurately enter, review, and interpret basic numerical and business information.
  • Basic Business Processes: Understand the basic relationship between customers, vendors, purchasing, inventory, production, and delivery.
CNC Programmer

CNC 201 | CAD Fundamentals

  • Technical Drawing Interpretation: Read and interpret basic engineering drawings, including dimensions, views, notes, and specifications.
  • Basic Computer Skills: Navigate common computer applications, manage digital files, and accurately enter and organize information.
  • Manufacturing Fundamentals: Demonstrate basic knowledge of machining processes, materials, tooling, and common manufacturing terminology.

CNC 202 | Design for Manufacturability

  • Machining Fundamentals: Understand basic machining processes, cutting tools, workholding, and common machine shop practices.
  • Engineering Drawings: Interpret dimensions, tolerances, notes, and other information needed to understand part requirements.
  • Technical Problem Solving: Analyze basic manufacturing challenges and consider practical solutions related to tooling, workholding, and part production.

CNC 203 | Manufacturing Processes Related to Project Management

  • Manufacturing Fundamentals: Demonstrate knowledge of common machining processes, materials, tooling, and manufacturing terminology.
  • Technical Communication: Read and follow technical documentation and communicate manufacturing information clearly and accurately.
  • Basic Project Organization: Organize tasks, follow established processes, manage priorities, and work effectively with others to meet production requirements.

CNC 204 | Lathe, Mill, and Multi-Axis Programming

  • CNC Fundamentals: Demonstrate familiarity with CNC machine operation, coordinate systems, tooling, workholding, and basic CNC programming concepts.
  • Machining & Shop Math: Apply basic algebra, geometry, measurement, speeds and feeds, and machining principles to manufacturing problems.
  • Engineering Drawings: Interpret dimensions, tolerances, part features, and manufacturing requirements from engineering drawings.

CNC 205 | Macroprogramming

  • CNC Programming: Read and interpret basic G-code and understand CNC program structure, commands, coordinates, and offsets.
  • Algebra & Mathematical Reasoning: Apply algebraic operations, order of operations, variables, and basic mathematical functions to solve technical problems.
  • Problem Solving: Follow logical sequences, identify programming errors, and systematically troubleshoot technical problems.

CNC 206 | CAD/CAM with SolidWorks/Mastercam

  • CAD Fundamentals: Demonstrate basic familiarity with 3D CAD concepts, including creating, modifying, and navigating digital part models.
  • Manufacturing Fundamentals: Understand basic machining processes, tooling, workholding, and how part geometry relates to manufacturing.
  • Computer & File Management: Navigate software applications, manage digital files, and follow established procedures for saving, importing, exporting, and organizing design data.