CNC Programmers play a vital role in manufacturing by turning blueprints and designs into precise instructions for computer-controlled machines. These programs tell lathes, mills, and other tools exactly how to cut, drill, and shape raw materials into finished parts.
CNC Programmer Apprenticeship
3-YEARS | 6,000 HOURS
What is a CNC Programmer?
Program Overview
Train for a Career as a CNC Programmer
As a CNC Programmer apprentice, you’ll learn how to use advanced CAD and CAM tools to design tooling and write code that drives precision machining of parts.
You’ll be at the intersection of design and manufacturing — translating engineering drawings into machine‑ready programs and ensuring parts come out right the first time.
| Program Length | 3-Years |
| On-the-Job Hours | 6,000 |
| College Classes | 9 |
| College Credits | 45 |
Hands-On Training That Builds Real Skills
As a CNC Programmer apprentice, you’ll learn how to think like a problem-solver and program like a professional.
You’ll build skills in:
- Developing tooling and fixturing to optimize manufacturing flow
- Creating CNC code and verifying numeric code using software platforms
- Reading engineering drawings, understanding part tolerances and designing for manufacturability
- Managing manufacturing data, documenting set‑up information, and collaborating with cross‑functional teams
- Using CAD/CAM systems to generate tool paths, simulate machining, and troubleshoot processes
By the end of the program, you’ll have the skills to program and optimize CNC machines, collaborate with engineers, and lead production workflows — setting you up for a long-term career in advanced manufacturing.
Why Apprenticeship Makes Sense
Hands-On Training with Real Employers
AJAC has partnered with 300+ advanced manufacturers to provide supervised, structured, paid on-the-job training.
AJAC apprentices can only work for companies that agree to hire them and place them into the program.
Each company has their own methodology for who they select as an apprentice.
Earn a Paycheck While You Learn
$
40.43
*
/hour
This advanced apprenticeship offers you the chance to earn while you learn and step into a high‑tech role in manufacturing.
Program Highlights:
- Paid on‑the‑job training at a partner employer
- 50% reduced tuition (many employers cover full cost)
- 45 college credits (9 classes × 5 credits each)
- Get a nationally recognized journey‑level credential
- Open pathways into roles such as Tool & Die Maker, Maintenance Manager, or Operations Manager AJAC
- Work with cutting‑edge manufacturing tools and software
*This is a Washington State average for this occupation. Wage rates vary by employer, industry, experience and location.
Apprenticeship Classes
CNC Programmer apprentices take 6 college-level classes (or 9 college-level classes if you are not a journey-level machinist). Classes are held one evening per week (Tuesday–Thursday, 5–9 PM) and is primarily online via Zoom for this program. Tuition: $450 per class (50% reduced rate). Many employers pay the full cost.
Engineering Drawings
Interpretation and application of technical drawings, including drawing zones, the relationship of detail, standard, section and auxiliary views. Students will learn linear dimensioning, tolerancing, lines, symbols and 3rd angle projection. Students will delve into scales, datums, and orthographic projection, examine parts lists and how to navigate and utilize process specifications.
Applied Geometry & Trigonometry
This course focuses on the fundamentals and applications of geometry and trigonometry. Topics include perimeters, areas, volume, trigonometric ratios and function, right angles and non-right angles. Apprentices will discuss relationships of lines, planes, angles, congruent and similar triangles, polygons and circles while performing geometric and trigonometric functions as they relate to manufacturing and aerospace. Other topics include special triangles and the Pythagorean Theorem.
GD&T and Precision Fits
Apprentices will study the theory and application of the use of standard tolerances and GD&T concentrating on geometric dimensioning and its relation to engineering drawings.
CAD Fundamentals
In this course, students learn foundational CAD skills such as data management, validation, drawing arts and tooling that are essential for CNC Programmers.
Design for Manufacturability
Foundational CAD skills such as data management, validation, drawing arts and tooling that are essential for CNC Programmers. Work-holding solutions for each manufacturing sequence, develop jigs to aid manufacturing process, establish 3D data sets for each work-holding sequence, create bill of materials lists, design custom cutting tools, create set-up documentation etc.
Manufacturing Processes Related to Project Management
Confirming customer requirements, defining manufacturing sequences, performing risk assessments to identify manufacturing issues, selecting tools, and documentation.
Lathe, Mill, and Multi-Axis Programming
In this course, students develop advanced CNC programming skills, focusing on lathe operations, multi-axis machining, and integrated mill-turn manufacturing. Students learn to create and simulate toolpaths for facing, turning, threading, grooving, and parting operations, while applying proper tooling, speeds and feeds, and machining strategies. Throughout the course, students progress from basic lathe programming to advanced topics including dual-spindle machining, live tooling, multi-axis tool orientation, custom workholding with soft jaws, tabbing techniques, and 3D surface machining.
Using hands-on projects and simulations, students learn to program complete machining processes, generate CNC code, optimize toolpaths, and select appropriate workholding methods for complex parts. By the end of the course, students are able to create and verify advanced turning, milling, mill-turn, and 3D machining programs, applying industry-standard manufacturing practices to efficiently produce high-quality components.
Macroprogramming
This course introduces apprentices to CNC macro programming by building a strong foundation in both theory and practical application. Students begin by learning course expectations, the role of macro programming in the CNC/NC Programmer Apprenticeship, and key programming concepts such as variables, conditional expressions, IF statements, and WHILE loops. They then expand their skills through parametric programming, connecting main programs, subprograms, and macro programs while modifying G-code parameters, managing variables, and working with machine position and offset variables.
Finally, apprentices apply mathematical functions, proper order of operations, single block commands, nested loops, and conditional logic to develop flexible, accurate CNC programs capable of solving complex machining tasks involving precise measurements, angles, and advanced programming techniques.
CAD/CAM with Solidworks/Mastercam
Apprentices explore the industry-standard CAD and CAM software used in modern manufacturing; SolidWorks for computer-aided design (CAD) and Mastercam for computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). Building on the foundational skills developed in Fusion 360, students will transfer their existing knowledge to these professional software platforms, gaining experience with the tools commonly used in manufacturing environments.
Students will first be introduced to Mastercam, where they will learn to create and edit simple CAD geometry, generate efficient toolpaths, and develop machining programs using industry best practices. Instruction includes 2D High Speed and Dynamic toolpaths to improve programming efficiency, reduce cycle times, and minimize tool wear, as well as a variety of hole-making operations, including drilling, advanced drilling, hole milling, and hole modification. .
The course also provides a foundational introduction to SolidWorks, covering essential part modeling techniques and design workflows. By the end of the course, apprentices will have developed the skills needed to create, modify, and prepare parts for machining using the same CAD/CAM software employed throughout the manufacturing industry.
Program Entry-Points
This program is designed as a training for journey level Machinists. It has been structured as a 4,000 hour program for journey-level machinist graduates or those with a college certificate/degree.
For individuals with at least 5 years of proven machining experience, this is a 6,000 hour program to accommodate experienced Machinists achieving their journey level status through work experience but lacking formal academic preparation.
Based on subject matter experts and employer recommendations, the following is the candidate eligibility criteria:
- Apprenticeship Completion: Journey-Level Machinist. Automatically awarded first year course work (3 classes) and 2,000 OJT Hours.
- College Certificate or Degree + Industry Trained | 5 Years of Experience/Certificate or Degree: Up to 2 classes of the first year’s coursework and 1,500 OJT Hours.
- Industry Trained | 5+ Years of Proven Machining Experience: Required to complete all 9 RSI Classes and 6,000 OJT Hours.
| Apprenticeship Class | Apprenticeship Completion | Industry Trained | College + Industry Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| YEAR 1 | |||
| APM 103: Engineering Drawings | O | X | TBD |
| APM 122: Geometry & Trigonometry | O | X | TBD |
| APM 201: GD&T | O | X | TBD |
| YEAR 2 | |||
| CNC 201: CAD Fundamentals | X | X | X |
| CNC 202: Design for Manufacturability | X | X | X |
| CNC 203: Manufacturing Processes Related to Project Management | X | X | X |
| YEAR 3 | |||
| CNC 204: Lathe, Mill, and Multi-Axis Programming | X | X | X |
| CNC 205: Macroprogramming | X | X | X |
| CNC 206: CAD/CAM with Solidworks/Mastercam | X | X | X |
| TOTAL CLASSROOM HOURS: 450 | |||
6,000 Hours of Hands-On Experience
Apprentices gain hands-on experience with structured tasks to ensure well-rounded expertise. The 6,000 hours (or 4,000 hours if you are a journey-level machinist) will be completed over the course of the apprenticeship. .
| OJT Competency | Approx. OJT Hours |
|---|---|
| Advance CNC Set-Up & Operations (4-axis, 5-axis process) | 2,600 |
| Material Process, Quality Assurance and Cutting Technology | 550 |
| Advance Inspection, Parts Finishing, Deburr and Administrative Work | 300 |
| Establish Manufacturing Process and Develop Tooling | 1,050 |
| Create CNC/NC Code, Identify Numeric Code | 1,000 |
| Develop Set-Up Documentation and Manage Manufacturing Data | 300 |
| Provide Internal/External Customer Service | 200 |
| TOTAL HOURS | 6,000 |
Step to Becoming an Apprentice
Identify an employer AJAC partners with and apply for an open position.
Talk with your supervisor to receive company approval for participation.
AJAC will visit your employer to sign our Apprenticeship Agreement.
Once you are registered, AJAC will enroll you in our apprenticeship classes.
Each month, submit your on-the-job training hours through our Apprentice Tracking System.
Upon completion, you will receive AJAC's certificate of completion and a journey-level card in your respective occupation.
6 Steps to Becoming an Apprentice
1
Find an Employer Partner: Apply to a company already partnered with AJAC — or, if your employer isn’t yet a partner, they can easily join the program. The process is simple and AJAC will guide them through every step.
2
Get Company Approval: Your supervisor signs off on apprenticeship participation.
3
Sign the Apprenticeship Agreement: AJAC visits your employer to finalize.
4
Start Classes: Enroll in your first college-level course.
5
Track Hours: Log on-the-job training through AJAC’s Apprentice Tracking System.
6
Graduate: Earn your Journey-Level Certificate and AJAC Certificate of Completion.
Your Career Starts Here
Ready to create manufacturing programs, drive precision production, and develop a high‑skilled, high‑paying career? Join the CNC Programmer apprenticeship with AJAC — earn while you learn, gain valuable college credits, and achieve a nationally recognized credential.