Advanced Manufacturing Technology

Program Objectives:

• Demonstrate knowledge of proper safety procedures in the shop.
• Demonstrate ability to set-up and operate machines such as lathes, grinders, drill presses and milling machines.
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of basic operation of CNC machines.  
• Demonstrate ability to finish machining parts to specified dimensions.
• Demonstrate ability to make computations for dimensions and cutting feeds and speeds.
• Demonstrate ability to use precision measuring instruments and laying out parts. 

As technology becomes more advanced, the manufacturing industry requires more technological innovations to create better products, achieve efficiency and get an edge in the competitive market. Advanced manufacturing provides these industry necessities by utilizing cutting-edge technologies and strategies to ensure a company is as efficient, effective, sustainable, and competitively positioned as possible throughout every step of its value chain, from initial concept through post-deployment lifecycle requirements.

At Northwest LA Technical Community College (NLTCC), we offer an Advanced Manufacturing Technology Program to equip learners with specialized classroom knowledge and practical skills required in the advanced manufacturing and precision machining industry.

What is an Advanced Manufacturing Technology Program?

Advanced Manufacturing Technology Program combines a highly innovative precision machining curriculum, technical expertise, paid working experience, and the best practice and principles of world-class machinists. Our program allows the learners to attend classroom lessons at least two days a week and practical work for about three days. This flexible curriculum will enable students to develop productive work behaviors that promote great self-development skills attractive to employers.

Generally, the program involves more than just sitting and receiving classroom instructions. The college works closely with the machine shop industry to enhance student learning and identify the most in-demand skills. It gives the students the opportunities to learn more about the culture of the precision machining industries through manufacturing workshops, like lean manufacturing, safety culture, and problem-solving, among others. These opportunities also help them increase their work ethics, presentation, and communication skills.

Job Core Skills Needed for a Career in Advanced Manufacturing Technology

Initially, strong backs, a pair of hands, and committed work ethics used to be the most important skills for one to enjoy a manufacturing career. Today, the industry has evolved and has been transitioning from manual skills to technology-driven Computer Numerically Controlled(CNC) skills. Proving a blend of traditional machining, engineering, and soft skills to maneuver in the career and keep up with the transition is the best route.

Some of the job core skills you acquire in advanced manufacturing technology include the following:

Digital Fluency

Digital fluency is taking the manufacturing industry by storm. As a manufacturing professional, you can use your knowledge of digital tools and technologies, such as understanding G-code, certifications in CNC Lathe, CNC Mill, and Multi-Axis operator, to help the company open up more growth opportunities while improving efficiency.

Precision Measuring Instruments

Precision measuring skills are vital for both traditional and CNC machining. They help professionals accurately manufacture components for industry to the highest standards. Certifications in PMI are available. Training is provided for accurate use of micrometers, dial calipers, dial indicators, and digital read-out systems.

Attention to Details And Safety

Advanced manufacturing usually requires you to operate sophisticated and heavy machinery, which requires efficiency and precision. Thus, focus on safety and attention to detail can keep you and your coworkers safe.

Critical Thinking

Advanced manufacturing requires individuals who can easily identify, analyze, and troubleshoot problems and properly respond to unforeseen challenges.

Lean Manufacturing

Lean manufacturing involves the updates in manufacturing processes that tend to eliminate waste. These skills help the manufacturing industry to reduce waste production without compromising quality standards.

Career Field Opportunities for Advanced Manufacturing Technology Program

Advanced Manufacturing Technology prepares graduates and students for internships, apprenticeships, and sought-after jobs. Some of the carrier opportunities in the field that have projected growth include the following:

• Steel Manufacturing technician
• CNC Machinist
• Manual Lathe and Manual Milling Machine Machinist
• Production CNC Operator
• Industrial Manufacturing Maintenance Machinist
• Job Shop Machinist
• Engineering technician
• Quality control analyst/ inspector
• Medical and Prosthetics Manufacturing
• Industrial designer

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a career in advanced manufacturing technology?

Manufacturing involves planning, managing, and processing materials into final or intermediate products and other related technical and professional support activities such as maintenance and production control. This career cluster is divided into distinct pathways:

• The production pathway- involves CNC machining, welder, and sheet metal worker.
• Manufacturing production process development-This includes the design engineer and engineering technician.
• Maintenance, installation, and repair-This pathway involve manual machinists, plumbers, steamfitters, pipefitters, and computer maintenance technicians.
• Quality assurance pathway-such as a quality engineer and inspector
• Inventory and logistics control
• Health, safety, and environmental assurance-includes health and safety engineer and environmental engineer

What is the length of the program?

The program is scheduled to take four semesters, approximately two years, with full-time status. However, this completion can be affected by other factors such as course withdrawals, course load, and repeat courses.

Are there any prerequisites for the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Program?

NLTCC is an open-admission college that serves different learners, including high school students, recent high school graduates, veterans, homeschooled students, and adults looking for high school equivalent diplomas.

Advanced manufacturing requires mathematics (geometry, statistics, and algebra), science (chemistry, physics, and biochemistry), English, and computer science at the high school level.
 

Advanced Manufacturing Technology: Empowering Your Career and Unleashing Opportunities

As aforementioned, advanced manufacturing technology can exponentially boost the manufacturing industry when taught and implemented correctly. NLTCC offers a cutting-edge curriculum for advanced manufacturing and other programs. We aim to combine human analytical skills with technology to improve efficiency and effectiveness in manufacturing, equipping our graduates with the in-demand skills needed for quick market absorption.

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