Northeast’s Machining and Manufacturing Automation programs offer students a hands-on, technology-driven pathway into one of today’s fastest-growing industries. Whether students are just getting started or are looking to deepen technical expertise, Northeast offers certificate and diploma options are designed to meet student needs.

  • Certificate Program:
    The Machining and Manufacturing Automation Certificate program provides students the opportunity to acquire highly valued skills in an innovative, hands-on learning environment. During the program, students participate in all aspects of a manufacturing organization, from materials and processes to safety, quality, maintenance, to personal relations. In addition, students also become familiar with print reading, the order of manufacturing operations, as well as manual machining and precision measurement skills through hands-on labs. This one-semester program allows for students to quickly enhance skills to advance in their current career or for graduates to quickly enter a high-demand career.
  • Diploma Program:
    The Machining and Manufacturing Diploma program provides students the opportunity to acquire highly valued skills in an innovative, hands-on learning environment. In addition to developing basic knowledge, skills, and abilities for successful integration into manufacturing industries, the diploma program features experiences for students to participate in middle skills training in introductory welding and fabrication, GD&T, manual machining, and the operation and programming of computerized manufacturing technologies including CAM programing and Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) Machines. This one-year program gives student a solid foundation of Machining and Manufacturing knowledge so students can enter the workforce or apply credits to an associate degree.

Why Students Choose This Program

Students can complete a certificate in one semester or diploma in one year, allowing them to enter the workforce quickly. The curriculum combines technical and soft skills—from safety and quality control to teamwork and communication—making students versatile and valuable in competitive job markets. Many graduates go on to roles in machining, maintenance, automation, and production operations.

Small class sizes and expert instructors provide personalized attention. Students benefit from faculty with real-world experience who guide them through technical training. Career services also helps connect students with employers.

Machining and Manufacturing automation are evolving rapidly, creating strong demand for skilled workers. With advancements in robotics, CNC technology, and automated systems, employers are actively seeking technicians with up-to-date training. The program prepares students for careers in a sector that offers job stability, strong wages, and opportunities for advancement.

Hands-On Learning Opportunities and Courses

Instructor working with student during machining labMachining and Manufacturing automation are evolving rapidly, creating strong demand for skilled workers. With advancements in robotics, CNC technology, and automated systems, employers are actively seeking technicians with up-to-date training. The program prepares students for careers in a sector that offers job stability, strong wages, and opportunities for advancement.

The program includes a diverse range of courses designed to provide students with both foundational knowledge and specialized skills, including:

  • Machining Fundamentals
  • Industrial Safety
  • Print Reading
  • Precision Measurement
  • CAM Fundamentals
  • CNC Programming Fundamental

Program Details

Certificate, 1 semester (17 credits)

Diploma, 1 year (34.5 credits)

Courses are offered in-person. 

Enrollment in this program is limited and based on the date of completed requirements for acceptance into this program.

Certificate or Diploma

All coursework in the Machining and Manufacturing Automation Certificate program will apply as full credit towards the Machining and Manufacturing Automation Diploma and the Associate of Arts Degree or the Associate of Science Degree. All coursework in the Machining and Manufacturing Automation Diploma program will apply as full credit towards the Associate of Arts Degree or the Associate of Science Degree

Kendall Yagow, Cardinal Health
Nick Flesner, Norfolk Iron and Metal
Jay Arnold, Norfolk Public Schools
Jed Millikan, Norfolk Specialities Inc.
Ryan Schroeder, Nucor Cold Finish
Justin Anderson, BD
Dave Cerny, PCM
John Klein, Northeast Machine and Mfg

Career Outcomes