Mechanics, Maintenance & Manufacturing training

CNC Programmer Training

Learn what CNC programmers do and how they do it: a semi-in-depth, practical course covering the role, vocabulary, common procedures, safety and career launch.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
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What you’ll learn in CNC Programmer training

A practical, general introduction to the CNC programmer job: what the role involves, 15+ key terms, how to perform common tasks such as program a simple milled part in CAM and prove out a new CNC program, safety essentials and how to launch your career. Online, self-paced, about 10 hours, $89.99.

  • Tuition
    $89.99
    Volume pricing from 2 seats
  • Length
    10 hours
    10 modules
  • Format
    Online
    Self-paced, any device
  • Access
    12 months
    LMS access
  • Level
    Beginner
    To intermediate
  • You receive
    Certificate
    Of completion

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course you will be able to:

  • Explain what a CNC programmer does day to day, where they work and how the role fits into the team
  • Use 15+ essential CNC programmer terms correctly
  • Walk through program a simple milled part in CAM, prove out a new CNC program, and reduce cycle time safely step by step
  • Identify the tools, equipment and technology used on the job
  • Apply core safety, compliance and professional standards
  • Map your path into the field, including credentials such as NIMS CNC credentials

Course syllabus

10 modules, about 10 hours in total.

MODULE 01Introduction to the CNC Programmer Role50 min
  • What CNC programmers do and why the role matters
  • Where they work: settings, employers and teams
  • Pay, job outlook and the career ladder
  • Professional and ethical expectations
MODULE 02A Day on the Job35 min
  • A realistic shift, start to finish
  • Schedules, shifts and workload
  • Working with supervisors, coworkers and customers
  • The best and hardest parts of the job
MODULE 03Essential CNC Programmer Vocabulary1 hr
  • Key term: G-code
  • Key term: M-code
  • Key term: CAM
  • Key term: Toolpath
  • Key term: Post processor
  • Plus 10 more terms with practice drills
MODULE 04Core Duties and Responsibilities1 hr
  • Read drawings, models and GD&T callouts
  • Plan machining operations and fixturing
  • Create toolpaths in CAM software
  • Select tools, feeds and speeds
  • Post-process and verify G-code programs
MODULE 05Common Tasks, Step by Step2 hr 10 min
  • How to program a simple milled part in CAM
  • How to prove out a new CNC program
  • How to reduce cycle time safely
  • Common mistakes and how to avoid them
MODULE 06Tools, Equipment and Technology50 min
  • CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion or Esprit
  • CAD software such as SolidWorks
  • CNC mills, lathes and multi-axis machines
  • Machine simulation software
  • Tool presetters
MODULE 07Safety, Compliance and Professional Standards1 hr 10 min
  • Keep machine doors closed and guards in place
  • Simulate programs before running them
  • Wear eye protection on the shop floor
  • Follow lockout procedures when working in machines
MODULE 08Skills Employers Look For50 min
  • CAM programming
  • G-code and M-code
  • Blueprint and GD&T reading
  • Problem solving
  • Attention to detail
MODULE 09Launching Your CNC Programmer Career50 min
  • Education and training pathways
  • Credential overview: NIMS CNC credentials
  • Credential overview: Mastercam certification
  • Resume and interview preparation
  • Your first 90 days on the job
MODULE 10Final Knowledge Check50 min
  • Comprehensive practice exam with explanations
  • Certificate of completion on passing

Who this training is for

  • Students: find out what the CNC programmer job is really like before choosing a program or major.
  • Career changers: test-drive the field and build vocabulary and confidence before investing in formal training.
  • New hires and employers: shorten ramp-up time with a consistent foundation for every new CNC programmer.

Pricing

$89.99 per learner. Buying for a team? Volume pricing applies automatically from 2 learners.

SeatsDiscount
2 to 101% off
11 to 202% off
21 to 503% off
51 to 1005% off
101 to 2507% off
251 to 5008% off
501 to 1,00010% off

Free preview lessons

Sample the course material for free:

Why train for this career

CNC programmers use CAD/CAM software and G-code to create, test and optimize programs that run computer numerically controlled machine tools such as mills, lathes and routers. BLS reports a median wage of $68,120 (May 2025) and about 2,700 openings per year. Read the full CNC programmer career profile or see salary details.

Enroll in CNC Programmer Training

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Course CNC Programmer Training · 10 hours · $89.99 per learner

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CNC Programmer training FAQ
How long is the CNC Programmer training?
About 10 hours, online, self-paced. You get 12 months of LMS access, so you can learn around work or school.
How much does the CNC Programmer training cost?
$89.99 per learner. Volume pricing applies automatically from 2 learners, up to 10% off for large groups.
Is the course online?
Yes. The course runs on our online learning platform (LMS). After you enroll, we email your login details.
Will this course make me a licensed or certified CNC programmer?
No. This is a general career-preparation course. It does not by itself grant a state license, national certification or academic credit. It is designed to help you understand the job and prepare for the formal training, exams and interviews that follow.
Who is this course for?
Students exploring careers, adults changing careers, new hires who want a faster ramp-up, and employers onboarding CNC programmers.
How do I enroll?
Use the enrollment form on this page. It opens a pre-filled email to our team, and we reply with your payment link or invoice and your LMS access. You can also call 1-866-429-6742.
Do you offer group or employer pricing?
Volume pricing from 2 seats. Choose “My team or employees” on the form or visit our employer training page.
What do I receive when I finish?
Certificate of completion from Career Education Institute after you pass the final knowledge check.


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