CNC and Manual Machining Apprentice (Precision Manufacturing)

Step Into the Shop: A Day in Your Apprenticeship

Picture your first week in Kentwood, MI. You clock in, meet your mentor, and roll up your sleeves beside lathes, mills, grinders, and CNC equipment. By mid-morning you’re measuring to thousandths, reading a blueprint with guidance, and learning why a clean, organized workspace is the backbone of quality. Each day blends hands-on work with coaching from experienced machinists so you build confidence—and parts that meet spec.

Your Training Journey

Company-paid classes at Grand Rapids Community College Advanced Technology Center begin this Fall. You can start working right away—or begin after finishing high school—then step into the classroom as the semester starts.

What the Classroom Covers

• Safety
• Precision measuring and layout
• Pedestal grinder and tool sharpening
• Drilling machines
• Hand tools and benchwork
• Saw operations
• Milling machines
• Engine lathe
• Surface grinder
• Basic CNC programming
• Haas CNC mill
• Haas CNC lathe
• CAD/CAM/CNC
• Charmilles EDM
• Haas CNC laser
• Blueprint reading
• Shop math
• GD&T
• Metallurgy
• Machinery’s Handbook
• SPC

What You’ll Do on the Floor

• Run a variety of machines—lathes, mills, and grinders—to produce quality components.
• Learn to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Assist seasoned machinists with problem-solving and process improvements.
• Keep your station orderly and safe, following all shop standards.
• Join in workshops and training sessions to advance your skills.
• Perform routine checks and basic maintenance on equipment.
• Work with teammates to hit production goals and deadlines.

What You Bring

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Mechanical curiosity and a drive to learn.
• Familiarity with machining tools and processes is helpful, but not required.

Proficiency

• High School / GED

Ready to turn precision into a career? Join us in Kentwood and start building your future one cut at a time.