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If you want a job that is in high demand, then choose to be a CNC machinist!
CNC means “Computer Numerical Control” and the term is followed by machine or machinist.
This rather new occupation evolves constantly, sometimes posing challenges for the operators of the machines.
If this sounds like fun to you, read this article about becoming a CNC machinist in Connecticut!
Article Table of Contents
CNC Machinist Job Description
Let’s see what a CNC machinist does on the daily!
He or she must operate a CNC machine to cut pieces from various materials while being very accurate.
The pieces can serve many purposes, based on who ordered them.
The predecessors of CNC machines were louder, not as easy to operate, and not as precise.
Lathes, mills, and grinders are the machines that use the CNC technology.
Here are the daily duties of a CNC machinist:
- Set up the machines
- Write and test programs
- Make adjustments to those programs
- Interpret blueprints and designs to understand the specs of the needed piece
- Check to see if the completed parts meet the specifications
- Prioritize tasks
Of course, not all the tasks haven’t been mentioned.
CNC Machinist Job Requirements
All employers have expectations when it comes to the hiring process.
For the candidates for a CNC machinist job things are no different.
These are some of the prerequisites standing out for this position:
- Graduating high school or obtaining a GED
- The minimum education expected
- Having a GPA of 2.5 at minimum
- Obtaining a degree or a certification in the field
- Highly valued
- Having the necessary skills for a machinist
Becoming a CNC Machinist in Connecticut
There are only 3 steps to follow to become a CNC machinist in this state.
Step 1 – Education
Don’t even dream of getting hired as a CNC machinist without a high school diploma or GED.
Many websites say that pursuing higher education is very useful for the future of a machinist.
You can choose to obtain an associate’s degree from a reputable college, or a certification from a training center.
Step 2 – Earn Some Certifications
One of the most important certifications to earn is the NIMS Machinist Level 1.
The National Institute of Metalworking Skills offers it, making it recognized nationwide.
Unlike many other certifications, this one never expires.
Other credentials also exist.
Earning them will help you stand out when applying for a job.
Step 3 – Apply for a Job
If you’re lucky to land an apprenticeship, you have a high chance of also becoming a full-time employee of that company.
You should ask your school about both apprenticeships and job openings in the field.
CNC Machinist Training in Connecticut
Let’s see some training schools in Connecticut!
Goodwin University 
This institution offers 2 types of training programs for future machinists:
- An Associate’s degree
- An 18-credit certificate
Of course, classroom education is combined with hands-on learning on CNC 3-axis milling and turning machines.
The school offers financial aid, and appropriate support for veterans, and accepts credit transfers.
Connecticut Technical Education And Career System 
The program offered here is called Precision Machining Technology.
Students start using the CNC machines in the 10th grade, making them proficient in using them when they graduate.
After each year, students will have 540 hours of instruction in the career/technical program recognized.
Upon graduation, students receive 1,500 hours that can be used toward an apprenticeship.
Students can also earn the NIMS certification while attending this school.
Manufacturing Alliance & Service Corporation 
The Technical Training Center has several programs to offer to those interested.
These include:
- CNC Entry-Level Operator Training
- CNC II with Mastercam
The first program has a duration of 12 weeks.
It takes place from Monday through Friday, in the morning, from 8 to 12.
The second training program lasts for 10 weeks.
The classes take place in the afternoon, from 3 to 6.
You can register at any time.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Goodwin University | One Riverside Drive East Hartford, CT 06118 |
| Connecticut Technical Education And Career System | 39 Woodland Street, Hartford, CT 06105 |
| Manufacturing Alliance & Service Corporation | 173 Interstate Ln. Waterbury, CT 06705 |
CNC Machinist Salary in Connecticut
Connecticut is known for its higher cost of living and higher salaries.
According to salary.com, a machinist earns on average around $54,610 per year.
This number is for the entry-level position for which I wrote this article.
If you want to know where the salaries are higher, look at the table below.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Norwalk | $58,300 |
| Cos Cob | $58,300 |
| Wilton | $57,910 |
| Weston | $57,550 |
| Stratford | $57,550 |
| Woodbury | $56,130 |
| Washington | $56,130 |
| Bethlehem | $56,080 |
| Bantam | $55,040 |
| West Haven | $54,910 |
Regional Salary in Connecticut
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT | 780 | $64,230 | $30.88 | $89,800 | $40,700 |
| Danbury, CT | 260 | $54,800 | $26.35 | $77,150 | $36,290 |
| Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT | 3,560 | $60,010 | $28.85 | $76,900 | $39,210 |
| New Haven, CT | 640 | $60,140 | $28.91 | $79,270 | $39,450 |
| Norwich-New London-Westerly, CT-RI | 490 | $61,290 | $29.47 | $73,640 | $47,720 |
| Waterbury, CT | 300 | $52,160 | $25.08 | $78,840 | $29,640 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I learn CNC machining online in Connecticut?
No, because this is an occupation that requires practice hours that get you accustomed to the machines and how they function.
If the schools available in Connecticut don’t have a program suitable to you, you can choose another school from another state.
In this situation, you must be willing to move to that state for the duration of your studies.
Which area of study should I focus on to become a CNC machinist in Connecticut?
Maths plays a great role in the technical field.
You should be comfortable with all the basic operations in math, like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Additionally, fractions, percentages, and decimals are also frequently used by a CNC machinist.
How long does it take to become a CNC machinist in Connecticut?
As seen in the article above, it can take as little as 12 weeks.
This isn’t enough time to learn everything there is about this occupation.
A better choice is a program with a duration of a few months.
An even better option is a program with a duration of 2 years that awards an associate’s degree.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Machinist
CNC Machinist by State