| Without the CNC programmer, any modern plastic | | | | How do you become a CNC programmer? |
| injection mold making operation grinds to a complete | | | | Basically, there are two routes to take. One is to |
| stop-quickly! Just consider for a moment just how | | | | become an injection mold making apprentice, with the |
| many machines use the CNC programmer.... | | | | understanding that your main interest is in CNC CAD |
| The CNC programmer might work on programming a | | | | CAM programming. Over time you will be steered |
| 5-axis CNC milling machine, WEDM machine, CNC EDM | | | | more and more in the direction of CNC programming. |
| sinker, laser cutting machine, CNC lathe, and more. He | | | | The other route is to take a course designed |
| also might be responsible for the programming of | | | | specifically to learn the skills required to get one of |
| electrodes for the EDM machine, among other things. | | | | the CNC programmer jobs you are hoping to win. |
| A CNC programmer needs to understand nearly | | | | Some technical colleges offer courses; as well as |
| every aspect of plastic injection mold making to be | | | | community colleges and universities. This path can |
| truly efficient. In fact, most CNC programmers have | | | | land you a job more quickly because you already are |
| extensive practical experience in the shop. Many | | | | partially trained and can begin producing for the |
| apprentices who show an inclination for programming | | | | company quickly. |
| end up as a CNC programmer. | | | | One path is not necessarily better than the other in |
| Most injection mold making shops have CNC | | | | the long run though. |
| programmer jobs available at almost any given time. | | | | What is a typical day like for a CNC programmer? |
| This is especially true for someone with Fadal CNC | | | | Obviously, a greater part of your day is in front of a |
| experience, CNC engraving experience, or is | | | | computer monitor. There are also many times when |
| competent with CNC CAD CAM programming. | | | | you will need to be at one of the many machine |
| What about the pay? | | | | tools you are programming. This variety can provide |
| Generally, most CNC programmer jobs pay similarly | | | | a welcome respite from sitting all day in front of a |
| to that of a plastic injection mold maker. This is true | | | | computer screen. |
| unless the CNC programmer lacks the hands on | | | | You also will be communicating with the various |
| practical experience from working in the shop. A | | | | machine operators, mold designers and the mold |
| technical school graduate will find it easier to get the | | | | makers. The work of a CNC programmer touches |
| job, but the pay may be less to begin with than that | | | | almost every aspect of the entire mold making |
| of an apprentice mold maker who becomes a CNC | | | | process. This can make you a hero, or a villain! |
| programmer. | | | | |