LBS0107 - CNC Essentials for Modern Manufacturing
12357480
Delivery Options
BLN-Blended: online and on campus.
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Course Description
Build a foundation in manufacturing processes and essential shop skills. Learn applied math for machining and explore CNC programming basics using G and M codes. This course blends online instruction with lab practice to prepare you for modern manufacturing environments. You will practice precision measurement tools and explore CNC milling basics. Through online live instruction and hands-on labs, you will gain exposure to CNC programming concepts using simple G and M codes.Course Outline
Shop Math Foundations (Online, Days 1-2)
- Fractions, decimals, and conversions
- Tolerance and precision in part production
- Example machining calculations
- Extended practice problems & group discussion
Gauging & Precision Measurement (Online, Days 3-4)
- Introduction to calipers, micrometers, and gauges
- Reading measurement values & error prevention
- Accuracy vs. precision in manufacturing
- Virtual practice exercises with sample data
CNC Milling Basics & G/M Codes (Online, Day 5)
- CNC machine overview & coordinate system (X, Y, Z)
- Common G-codes (G00 rapid, G01 linear, G02/G03 circular)
- Common M-codes (M03 spindle on, M05 spindle stop, M08 coolant)
- Walkthrough of a simple part program
- Group activity: modifying a sample CNC code
CNC Simulation Lab (In-person, Day 6)
- Hands-on practice with measurement tools
- CNC milling machine demonstration
- Observation of CNC code execution
- Group reflection: connecting math, measurement, and machining
Learner Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Apply shop math to solve machining-related problems.
- Accurately use and read calipers, micrometers, and basic gauges.
- Explain CNC milling concepts and the machine coordinate system.
- Interpret and write simple CNC code using standard G and M commands.
- Demonstrate safe measurement techniques and observe CNC machining operations in a lab setting.
Career Outlook Overview
Numerical control tool operators set up and maintain computerized machine tools. These machines are programmed to cut and shape parts made of metal or plastic.
| Quick Facts: Numerical Control Tool Operators | |
| Wages | Earn $49,257 per year |
| Employment | Large Occupation (8,034) |
| 10 Year Growth | Declining |
| Annual Openings | High (852 openings in 2025) |
Data from Illinois WorkNet (Sep. 4, 2025)
Scholarship Opportunity
Scholarship funding is available for this course through the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) Paths to College and Career program.
Apply here at least 2 weeks before the start date of your desired class to find out if you are eligible for a scholarship. Funding is limited.
Notes
This is a 6-day course. Days 1-5 are online live and the last day is in-person at Harper College in Palatine.Loading...
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Thank you for your interest.
Kidia Burns is a Die Hard Green Bay Packers Fan, a trailblazer in manufacturing, and a powerful advocate for women in trades. She proudly serves as the Executive Director of Professional Women in Trades Inc. and is the CEO of KB Consulting Services. With years of experience teaching CNC machining to adults, all-women cohorts, and Technology Education to high school students, Kidia has dedicated her life to opening doors for others.