Machining Technology in Florida

The Machining Technology pathway prepares students for careers in precision manufacturing, producing metal components for industries ranging from aerospace to medical devices to industrial equipment. Students develop skills in machine operation, technical blueprint reading, precision measurement, and quality control while learning CNC programming and advanced machining techniques. This program combines foundational manufacturing knowledge with specialized machining expertise.

Florida's manufacturing sector includes aerospace suppliers, medical device manufacturers, and precision shops that require skilled machinists. Students learn traditional lathe and milling machine operation, CNC programming and operation, tool selection, and quality standards. The curriculum emphasizes precision, safety, and the technical knowledge required for modern manufacturing.

Graduates pursue careers as machinists, CNC programmers, production supervisors, or quality control specialists with manufacturing companies, aerospace contractors, and job shops. Machining technology offers stable employment, competitive wages, and opportunities for advancement. Skilled machinists experience strong demand and can earn excellent salaries, especially with specialized certifications.

Machining Technology at a Glance

State Standards & Framework

Florida's machining technology standards emphasize both traditional machining skills and modern CNC operations used in contemporary manufacturing. The curriculum covers blueprint interpretation, precision measurement, machine tool operations, and CNC programming. Standards ensure students understand quality control, safety procedures, and the technical knowledge required for precision manufacturing.

Students operate mills, lathes, and CNC machines in hands-on training environments that simulate production operations. The standards require competency in G-code programming, tool geometry, speeds and feeds, and quality inspection. Professional certifications and industry standards are integrated into the curriculum.

View Florida CTE Framework →

Typical Course Sequence

View Florida course standards →

Industry Certifications & Credentials

• ✓NIMS Machining Level 1
• ✓AWS SENSE Entry Level Welder
• ✓AWS SENSE Advanced Welder
• ✓NOCTI Welding
• ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
• ✓OSHA 30-Hour General Industry
• ✓Forklift Operator Certification
• ✓Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA)

Career Opportunities

Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.

Work-Based Learning Opportunities

Work-based learning includes internships with precision machine shops, aerospace suppliers, and manufacturing companies where students operate machinery and contribute to production. Students gain practical experience with industry equipment, materials, and quality standards. Many manufacturers hire program graduates for machinist positions, especially those demonstrating strong technical skills and safety practices.

Career & Technical Student Organization