Career Description: Machine operators clean, oil, and maintain machine tools, in addition to repairing and constructing new parts for existing machinery. Skilled machine operators are needed to keep the complex industrial machinery of today’s manufacturing facilities running smoothly. Their work keeps factories productive, ensuring the high quality of the final product and the safety of machine operators. The machine operator is often responsible for performing entry-level to complex troubleshooting and repair techniques on manufacturing equipment and electrical/electronic or mechanical systems. As a technician you will be responsible for analyzing, troubleshooting, maintaining, and repairing equipment. To advance in this career, machine operators must gain proficiency with basic mechanical/hydraulic and pneumatic concepts related to machine tools.

Program Information: The Machine Operations Diploma program at Central Lakes College provides a comprehensive foundation to get you started as a technician suited to work in any industrial plant where precision, efficiency, and safety are valued. You will learn skills in electronics, mechanical systems, and troubleshooting to become qualified to repair and maintain computerized equipment. Instruction takes place in a state-of-the art shop for a hands-on, practical experience. The diploma you earn from CLC will signify your competency is skills necessary for multiple career opportunities.

Program Outcomes:
Graduates will be able to:

• Select correct testing equipment for troubleshooting machine malfunctions;
• Use and understand preventive maintenance procedures;
• Use and understand predictive maintenance procedures;
• Troubleshoot complex electrical control circuits and devices, and;
• Troubleshoot complex mechanical systems.

Special Program Requirements:

In addition to the program requirements, students must meet the following conditions in order to graduate:

1. College Cumulative GPA Requirement: cumulative grade point average (GPA) of credits attempted and completed at CLC must be at least 2.0;
2. College Technical Core GPA Requirement: cumulative GPA of credits attempted and completed towards the technical core of the diploma or degree must be at least 2.0;
3. Residency Requirement: students must complete 25% of their credits at Central Lakes College.