Board approves Machining Certificate programs

Heartland Community College is adding three certificate programs to boost trades skills. 

Heartland’s Board of Trustees approved the adoption of certificate programs in Manual Machining, Machine Tool Technology, and CNC Machining. The new certificate programs will allow students to enter into the workplace directly from Heartland or upskill to advance in the workplace.

These certificates have been specifically designed to address the growing need for individuals with expertise in machine operations, offering students comprehensive training and specialized skills in manufacturing technologies. Through hands-on coursework and practical training, students enrolled in these programs will acquire the knowledge and proficiency required to excel in advanced areas of manufacturing.

The Manual Machining Certificate (13 credit hours) prepares individuals with skills for entry-level employment as Machine Tool Setters.

The CNC Machining Certificate (16 credit hours) prepares students for employment as Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Programmers and CNC Operators.

The Machine Tool Technology Skills Certificate (22 credit hours) is designed as a one-year program to develop skills for employment or advancement as CNC Programmer, CNC Operators, and Toll and Die Makers.

In all three programs students will earn either a 10-Hour or 30-Hour OSHA Construction or General Industry Safety Card.

All three certificates will integrate into the larger Industrial Technology Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program. Students will have the opportunity to stack their credits towards earning the comprehensive Industrial Technology AAS degree.

The District 540 Board of Trustees approved the adoption of the programs at their May 16, 2023 meeting.

The next step in the process of program development is Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) approval.

Heartland is targeting the Fall 2023 semester for the Manual Machining Certificate and Spring 2024 semester for the CNC Machining Certificate for new students to begin these programs.