For more information, visit the Dallas College Machining Technology webpage and your success coach at your campus.
This is an example course sequence for students interested in pursuing a CNC Mill and Lathe Operator Occupational Skills Award. It does not represent a contract, nor does it guarantee course availability. Following this pathway will help you earn an Occupational Skills Award in CNC Mill and Lathe Operator. Students must earn at least 25% of the credit hours required for graduation through instruction by Dallas College. See catalog for official certificate requirements.
This is an accelerated, stand-alone two-semester operator occupational skills award. The skills award will help students get into the workforce faster in a specific part of the machining field. The CNC Mill and CNC Lathe Operator Occupational Skills Award incorporates introductory manufacturing processes and skills, providing hands-on experiences emphasizing computer numerical control (CNC) setup, operation, and code modification. The skills award learning outcomes align with industry-recognized proficiencies that qualify a graduate to apply for entry-level positions requiring CNC Mill and CNC Lathe operator and setup skill sets. Hands-on training is provided in a high-tech work environment promoting proficiency in: blueprint reading, conventional machining (manual milling, manual lathes, drill presses), machine setup (CNC Mill, CNC Lathe), N/C programming, working in Teams to solve manufacturing problems collaborating with other members of the team, precision inspection of machined parts, prepares students for employment in the machining and metalworking industries. Courses that complete the skills award are noted below.
Students pursuing this certificate are waived from the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) standards, but must meet course prerequisites.


Catalog Year 2024-2025 You may use this pathway if you entered Dallas College on or before this date.
Degree Type Occupational Skills Award
GPA Requirement Student must earn a GPA of 2.0 or higher
TSI May be Exempt
SEMESTER-BY-SEMESTER MAP FOR FULL-TIME STUDENTS
All plans can be modified to fit the needs of part-time students. This is not an official degree plan. See catalog for official certificate requirements.
CERTIFICATE MINIMUM: 14 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS
SEMESTER 1
MCHN 1200 – Beginning Machine Shop
MCHN 1320 – Precision Tools and Measurement
SEMESTER 1 ACTION ITEMS
- Meet with your success coach to confirm academic and career goals before the end of the semester.
Meet with your success coach to research your career options and opportunities for job shadowing.
Total Hours: 5
SEMESTER 2
MCHN 1338 – Basic Machine Shop I
MCHN 2331 – Operation of CNC Turning Centers
MCHN 2334 – Operation of CNC Machining Centers This is the capstone course for this award.
SEMESTER 2 ACTION ITEMS
- Meet with your success coach to request an official program of study audit and confirm or update your academic/career path and program of study.
- After reviewing your degree plan and program of study, apply for graduation. Meet with your success coach to apply for the CNC Mill and Lathe Operator Occupational Skills Award.
- Sign up for commencement.
- Join the Alumni Network!
Total Hours: 9
DALLAS COLLEGE PATHWAY TOTAL: 14 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS