How to Learn CNC Lathe
1
Take a course at a local trade school or community college to learn how to set up and operate aCNC lathe. Trade schools offer CNC lathe courses as well as lathe courses on a manual lathe. Classes are offered in the evenings and on the weekends and are taught by machinists with experience. Trade schools offer classes on the basics of lathe machining as well as more advanced training on CNC lathes.
2
Enroll in a mechanical engineering program at a college or university. Mechanical engineers will know how to use various CNC machines including lathes. Engineering degrees offer the candidates the highest paying salary and the most responsibility in a machine shop. College and university level courses will include classes on the basics of CNC and will work towards more advanced knowledge of the many facets of CNC machining including live tooling and three-axis lathe work.
3
Enroll in an internship program while you are attending college for mechanical engineering. The internship will give you hands-on experience working the CNC lathe and getting to know the many aspects of operating a machine of that type. Internships can be paid or unpaid, but they almost always offer some form of college credit for the completion of the duration of the internship. Speak with the head of the Engineering department for available internships offer at your school.
4
Take online classes to enhance your knowledge of the CNC lathe. Online courses use text, audio and video to teach the student about the operation of a lathe, including those controlled by a computer, or CNC. Online classes allow for flexibility and the opportunity to work at your own pace without the restrictions of class times. Online courses do not offer hands-on experience with the machines, so there are some limitations.
5
Apply for an entry-level job at a local machine shop that has CNC lathes. Although entry-level helpers are not usually allowed near these types of machines, as you work your way up, you will gain the experience necessary to become a CNC lathe operator, which involves knowing the basics of how the machine works. You can then slowly work your way up to become a CNC lathe machinist after learning the set up and programming details of the lathe's you use in that particular shop.
