CNC Programming

CNC, or computer numerical control, programmers use automated machines in a number of manufacturing areas. Everything from electric guitars to custom metal signs can be built with CNC machinery.

Water jets, plasma cutters, automated lathes, mills, and routers are all standard equipment for CNC programmers. Instead of making products one by one, by hand, programmers are able to use machines to make several in a short amount of time, without any variation in quality.

Students in a CNC programming course learn microcomputer operation, CAD software to assist in designs, and of course how to actually program machines themselves. A reintroduction of trigonometry and geometry is also taught in many CNC programming courses.

The average CNC programmer in Canada earns $51,666 per year. Starting salaries are closer to $46,000 per year, while those who have been in the industry for a few years earn an average of $61,425 per year.