After watching almost all the videos in the academy and practicing with Fusion 360 and doing a basic course with GCode Tutor, I feel that the time has come to do a course of 3 days or a week, in person, with a real lathe, before of making the decision to buy a small Tormach 8L type lathe, which allows me to start a new life in CNC. The only courses I have found in the USA are all certifications from technical schools or universities that last for months and even years. Also, I couldn’t find any active groups in the Fort Lauderdale/Miami area… Any suggestions on where I can get a face-to-face short course?
3 Likes
If you are buying a Tormach they offer machine installation and on-site training if purchasing a new machine. But there is chance if you contact them directly they may be doing an installation in your area that you can sit in on, or they can work with you to help.
1 Like
Thank You for your advice!!! 
Have you looked at the Small Groups within the Titans of CNC Academy? There are many, many host shops that will allow you to make your parts on their machines. Just find the Host shop near you.
1 Like
Yes, but there are no active groups in South Florida…
That does present a problem. Your best bet may be to design and program as many of the series as you can, OP1 and OP2 - and the soft jaws needed. Then travel to a Host shop. You are welcome to come to mine. www.theschoolofshop.com
2 Likes
Thank you very much Wayne for your advice!.. I will consider your offer!
1 Like
is this still active ?
I have advice seriously 50 years doing CNC
1 Like
Hi Brian! Could You be please more clear with your comment… I did’t understand if you are the host of a group in Florida and you are offering your advice or help in CNC?..
Hello! I apologize for missing this thread when it was posted. A response to your chat request was sent but I’m reposting my comments here for the benefit the community!
'You have definitely taken the first step in advancing towards your goals by searching for an active Small Group in your area. In the early days of the Pandemic, many Small Groups closed their operations and have remained closed.
The next best advice we have is for you to network with companies and institutions in your area. By introducing them the TITANS of CNC: Academy Curriculum, you may open other doors for yourself to pursue your learning and business goals.
Lastly, if you’re not already a member of the TITANS of CNC Machining Group on Facebook, we invite you to join the conversation with our network of industry professionals. There you can connect with others who share your goals and interests. You never know where the conversation will lead you!
We hope this information finds you well and wish you the best in all your endeavors. Please let us know if we can be of further assistance.’
After getting no response from any of the small groups forms that I filled out I searched for some hands on classes myself and came across this last week: Hands-On CNC Training Classes – Saunders Machine Works
Most of what is available is too short notice for me but I’m going to try to make it to the 3 axis class in December.
Check your prerequisites, they expect you to have a Fusion account and familiar with Fusion 360 (suggest you take their Fusion 360 course) and they expect you to have some machining background.
Thanks Wes! I also found this place a short time ago. So far it is my first option. I am finalizing the details of my project and later I also plan to take a course with them. Good luck!
1 Like