Machining, Manufacturing & Engineering
MACHINING, MANUFACTURING & ENGINEERING
(CIP Code: 48.0501)

The Machining, Manufacturing & Engineering course of study is designed to prepare the interested student for varied manufacturing opportunities. The demands for the highly skilled craftsman are many. From Machine Operator to Toolmaker, from Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Operator to CNC Programmer, all start with the experience and training found in our complete precision machining lab.
This program is nationally certified with the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). It emphasizes the safe and proper operation of metalworking machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, precision grinders and drill presses. The course also includes an introduction to layout and blueprint reading and instruction in CNC machining and programming.
North Montco Technical Career Center's Machining, Manufacturing & Engineering program is also an affiliate member of the Precision Machined Products Association (PMPA).
Instructor: Mr. John Jacobs (jjacobs@nmtcc.org)
Please see the tabs below for more detailed information about the program.
- Program Overview and Outcomes
- Pre-Apprenticeship
- Industry Certifications
- Cooperative Education Opportunities
- Task List
- Course Materials
- Classroom Expectations
- Honors Course
- Acknowledgments
Program Overview and Outcomes
The Machining, Manufacturing & Engineering course of study is designed to prepare the interested student for varied manufacturing opportunities. The demands for the highly skilled craftsman are many. From Machine Operator to Toolmaker, from Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Operator to CNC Programmer, all start with the experience and training found in our complete precision machining lab. This program is nationally certified with the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). It emphasizes the safe and proper operation of metalworking machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, precision grinders and drill presses. The course also includes an introduction to layout and blueprint reading and instruction in CNC machining. Upon graduating, students who complete the Machining, Manufacturing & Engineering program will be prepared to enter the workforce and be college-ready.
Career/College
Potential Career Opportunities include:
Automotive Machinist, CNC Operator, General Machinist, Machine Operator, Maintenance Machinist, Production Machinist
Potential Career Opportunities with Post-Secondary Education include:
Apprentice Machinist, Apprentice Toolmaker, Apprentice Tool & Die Maker, CNC Programmer, CNC Technician, Manufacturing Engineer
Pathways to College:
- PDE SOAR Agreements:
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
Pennsylvania College of Technology
Reading Area Community College
Delaware County Community College - Articulation Agreements:
Johnson College
St. Francis University
Thaddeus Stevens
Profile of a Graduate
Pre-Apprenticeship
This program is a Registered Pre-Apprenticeship designed to prepare students for entry into Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) or related employment opportunities. It facilitates individual success through career training, support services, mentorship, and exposure to apprenticeship offers. Students participate in authentic learning experiences, including field trips to registered apprenticeship sponsors, networking events, job fairs, and resume/interview support. Upon completion, students receive a Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate of Completion from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, demonstrating their commitment to the trade and readiness for employment or advanced training.
Benefit to Students
Students benefit by gaining a direct pathway into Registered Apprenticeship Programs or employment in their trade area. They receive hands-on experience, professional networking opportunities, and resume/interview support, helping them transition smoothly from school to work. The Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate signals to employers that students are serious about their trade and have already completed a recognized level of training. This often gives them a competitive advantage when applying for apprenticeships or full-time positions.
Eligibility Requirements
Participating students must meet certain eligibility requirements and complete specific steps.
They must:
- Be a high school senior currently enrolled in the program at North Montco Technical Career Center.
- Have completed a minimum of 720 hours of related technical instruction (RTI). (2 years in our program)
- Have earned an 80% or higher in all tasks.
Additionally, students must complete the Pre-Apprenticeship Appendix B Application to be officially registered with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry as a Pre-Apprentice.
Company Partner
The Machining, Manufacturing & Engineering program is partnered with Dana Corporation. When a program partners with a company, it means that the employer is a Registered Apprenticeship Sponsor or an industry partner who supports the training program. This partnership provides students with real-world exposure through field trips, guest speakers, networking events, and potential employment opportunities. However, it does not guarantee employment with that company. Instead, it offers students a connection to employers who recognize the value of pre-apprenticeship training and may consider them for apprenticeship or job openings in the future.
Industry Certifications
Students in the Computer Integrated Machining program have the opportunity to earn the following industry certifications:
National Institute for Metalworking Skills.
· Measurement, Material and Safety
· Job Planning, Benchwork and Layout
· Manual Milling
· Manual Turning Operations
· Drill Press Skills
· CNC Milling Operations
· CNC Turning Operations
· OSHA 10-hour Certification
Cooperative Education Opportunities
Cooperative Education allows students to be employed during the school day while gaining meaningful instruction in a technical area, applying classroom knowledge to real-world experiences, and developing life-long career skills. Students may be allowed to go to work for a number of days determined by their teacher and the cooperative education coordinator.
Task List
A program task list is an instructional tool to measure the technical competency of a student. During your enrollment in the Machining, Manufacturing & Engineering program, you will be taught and assessed on the following tasks:
100 Orientation/Safety
200 Performing Layout Work
300 Part Inspection
400 Bench Work
500 Drill Presses
600 Grinding Machines
700 Lathes
800 Milling Machines
900 Power Saw
1000 Machines and Tools
1100 Metallurgy
1200 Charts and References
1300 Blueprint Reading
1400 CNC Programming/Operations
Course Materials
Students are required to follow all rules and regulations. State law requires students to wear approved safety glasses worn in the lab area at all times. If your child already wears prescription glasses, another style of safety glasses is available to wear over the prescription glasses. Long hair must be tied back and earrings, necklaces, or jewelry of any type are not permitted to be worn in the lab area at any time. Each student will be required to have sturdy shoes (no sandals or open-toe/heel shoes), pants or coveralls and a work shirt with sleeve. A belt or suspenders must be worn to keep pant legs off the floor, for both safety and for our students to look professional.
See below for a complete list of tools, uniforms and safety items (and approximate cost) required for the Computer Integrated Machining Program:
- Safety glasses - $5
- Leather work shoes (no sneakers) - $40-$80
- Workbook - $35
- Uniform t-shirt - $13-$17 (Purchase Here)
Program Fees: All students are also required to pay an activity fee of thirty-five dollars ($35) – (separate check made payable to “North Montco Technical Career Center” or payable online)
Textbooks / Learning Management System / Communication
Textbooks and assignments will be accessed through our Canvas learning management system. The textbook used in class is:
Precision Machining Technology 3rd edition
NMTCC provides students with a Google Account and a Canvas account. To access these accounts see below for links, and username and password format:
Google account: https://www.gmail.com
Canvas account: https://nmtcc.instructure.com/login/canvas
Username: (first initial) (last name) (2 digit Graduation yr)@students.nmtcc.org
Password: 9-digit student ID number (found on back of ID card)
Example: username: jdoe24@students.nmtcc.org
password: 000012345
Classroom Expectations
- Daily Class Procedures
- Classroom Rules
- Safety
- Physical Criteria
- Grading Policy
- Attendance Policy
- Senior Portfolio
Daily Class Procedures
Classroom Rules
Students must follow all rules in the NMTCC Handbook.
- Students must be on time and prepared for class. Including but not limited to safety glasses, work shoes/boots, and long pants.
- Absolutely NO horseplay will be tolerated in the classroom or lab. Safety First!
- Students must not abuse tools/equipment and return them to their proper location after use.
- Do not operate equipment until you have received proper training AND permission from the instructor.
- Students must show respect to the instructor and other students at all times.
- Foul language, excessively loud talking, and distracting students will not be tolerated.
- Students are responsible for cleaning their individual work areas at the end of each class.
- Students are expected to show respect
- Learn and work in a safe manner.
- Be punctual and manage their class time effectively.
- Stay on task and accept responsibility.
- Come to class prepared to learn.
Discipline Procedures:
· First offense: Verbal warning.
· Second offense: Discipline referral.
· Third offense: Discipline referral and progressive discipline according to the matrix.
· Fourth offense: Discipline referral and progressive discipline according to the matrix and possible removal from the program.
· Safety Violations will result in an immediate discipline referral.
Each discipline infraction will result in points deducted from your work ethic grade.
Safety
Safety rules are not debatable. Safety is YOUR responsibility! Students are required to follow all rules and regulations. In addition to following all NMTCC’s listed and/or posted safety and SDS Policies, refer to the specific equipment manufacturer’s user, operator, and/or shop manuals for complete safety details when using any equipment. Students are not permitted to use any equipment or tools unless they have received and documented that they have received the appropriate safety instruction.
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Potential Safety Hazards:
- Various chemicals (Flammable, Caustic, Corrosive, Poisonous)
- Grease, Oils, Degreasers, Cleaners
Physical Criteria
Grading Policy
Knowledge grades are based on a rubric designed to follow industry standards and procedures. Knowledge grades are 30% of the grade.
Skill grades are based on task completion. Skills grades are 40% of the grade.
Work Ethics are based on daily attendance, proper PPE, and work performance. Work ethic is 30% of the grade.
Attendance Policy
Due to the amount of work it takes to complete some of the assignments, your attendance is essential to get the most out of your learning experience. If you are going to be absent or late, please have your parent or guardian call the school or bring in a note. Students who are absent will receive a Work Ethic grade of "0" for the day. If the absence is excused, the student will receive a Work Ethic grade of a "5" with an opportunity to make up the assignment and have their Work Ethic grade changed to a "10". Students who are late will receive a Work Ethic grade of a "5" for the day. If the lateness is excused, the student will receive a Work Ethic grade of a "5" with an opportunity to make up the assignment and have their Work Ethic grade changed to a "10".
Senior Portfolio
Every student must complete a Senior Portfolio. Portfolios will be created by following the sequence of grade-level assignments. Senior Portfolio artifacts will be graded per program expectations and assignment criteria and be included in the marking period grade for which the assignment is due. Portfolios will be housed in their Google Drive. Students will be able to take the portfolios with them or have access to them after graduation.
Honors Course
Students have the opportunity to enroll in the Honors level course of their CTE program. The Honors course is for 12th-grade students who have demonstrated a high level of interest and achievement in their program and who aspire to an advanced level of learning. Students in the Honors course will be exposed to individualized industry-related advanced work, rigorous study of CTE subject matter with embedded academic content, and practical application of knowledge and skills to work-based situations. Students must meet the required prerequisites and submit a completed Academic Teacher Recommendation form during their 11th-grade year to be considered for the Honors level course.
Prerequisites:
100% of POS Tasks
GPA of >90% in CTE program
GPA of >80% in academic courses
Recommendation Form completed by academic teacher
Specific Industry Certification:
· OSHA 10-hour Course
· At least four NIMS credentials
Acknowledgments
Parents are asked to review and acknowledge the program information by either:
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Visiting the Parent Portal using this link, or
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Signing the program syllabus distributed in class and returning it to the program teacher.






