Hi, all. I’m relatively (okay, quite) new to the CNC world. I came on board at my current shop about a month ago. It has, though, been a great experience so far.
My previous job was heavy in the QA/QC world, and I seem to be on track for both implementing new and bolstering current systems in my new role. I’m hoping that fresh eyes will allow for an unbiased and unclouded view. However, I will be the first to admit the ignorance that comes with those “fresh eyes.”
My question is this: what certifications are mandatory in the world of CNC? I know that being certified in a number of certain ISO regulations can add esteem to a shop and help secure more lucrative contracts, but are there any that are outright mandatory? Same for anodizing. Are there certain certifications that must be held for basic anodizing processes?
Thanks in advance for all your input.
-Hailey
1 Like
I’m gonna say it might depend on your location. As far as in the south where I’m at nothing but work experience got me to where I am today. now I have had some shops ask about schooling or certs. Then I have had others that wouldn’t talk to you or care less about a piece of paper. Its all about how you can sell yourself to a Company. I have the upmost confidence in myself, so my punch line to them is “I Can Make Anything”. That the only limitation is the machine not my talents.
1 Like
Eagerly awaiting for the Titan certifications for my students. Until then, as an educator, our schools have targeted National Industry recognized proctored credential/certifications. I create a pathway for my students to complete the NIMS credentials in CNC Milling and CNC Turning… Truthfully, most small to medium size companies have never heard of them, but larger Corporations such as Boeing, 3M, Halliburton, Baker Hughes, etc are familiar with them and some even add them to job description as a preference. They have now landed the NIMS on the O-Net SOC database. I had to expose my local shops to NIMS and my students do gain $1 to 2 an hour more for an entry level positions. I get good feedback from the companies that hire my students. There is now a Haas CNC mill certification, it costs $150 for a hands on test, there are also Kennametal and Sandvick online certifications… An apprenticeship completion would also be a good document to acquire.
Thank you both very much for your answers. If/as I progress in this career, I may very well find myself pursuing some of those certifications.
But perhaps I should rephrase my question a bit. I was thinking more of the shop as the whole. What certifications and/or registrations are required of the company. Government-imposed, and what not. As a CNC company, are there any basic industry or government standards that are mandatory? Something that you might have to demonstrate your adherence to should you, say, be audited.
To my knowledge there are no mandatory government requirements for employment in in this industry. I personally have no certificate that proves I know anything. I’m like Mike Jones I have a strong work history in the industry and I’ve never had a hard time finding a job.
1 Like
Depends on your customer base, If you are medical, ISO 13485 was required, but I believe that may have changed recently. This is a quality certification, not so much specific to CNC. I do not know of any CNC shop certifications, if you want to do business with Aerospace and your are a prime contractor, you will need the current quality certifications for that industry, as well as Automotive, etc.
I worked in the leading Medical Company for 3 years making parts. I have talked to Aerospace Companies lately they don’t ask for any either. I gave my background when they asked and then called did a phone interview. Suppose to get a call back Friday about a in person interview for CNC Manager. This Country pushed everyone to believe in having to go to 4 year College or you wouldn’t make it in life. Well all Skilled Trades did is suffer and this new generation they so gladly grouped me in doesn’t know what real work consist of really.
This is why I made the jump into Tool & Die its dying off quickly. I would guess that at least 75% of Tool Maker and Injection Mold Makers are fixing to retire. That’s the whole reason I jumped over from job Shop I basically made them pay my hourly rate and I wasn’t shy about it. This Company is being squirrelly about are potential growth that involves a move to a bigger facility. So, just in case I’m lining up my next move just in case things go south. Its all in how well you can sell yourself, and how you back it up on the job. If your not confident they will see it and your work will show it.
My favorite thing to say in the interview:
“I’m usually the 1st guy in, and the last to leave. I love what I do, and I take pride in my work. I can make anything my only limitations are what can the machine do.”
1 Like