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Are you considering new career avenues?
Then you can consider the journey of becoming a CNC machinist in Wisconsin!
This industry has recently gained significant momentum.
Obtaining the requisite training and education is crucial before venturing into this profession.
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Read this guide I wrote about the steps needed to pursue a career as a machinist in Wisconsin!
CNC Machinist Job Description
Firstly, let’s see what CNC is.
This is an acronym for Computer Numerical Control.
In this domain, machinists oversee computer-guided machinery designed for precise metal or plastic cutting.
They produce many types of items, all from scratch and with high precision.
Typically, these machines include lathes, mills, and grinders.
To fulfill their daily responsibilities, machinists undertake a range of tasks, including:
- Machine setup,
- Programming,
- Calibration,
- Blueprint interpretation,
- Quality assurance checks to ensure parts meet exact specifications.
CNC Machinist Job Requirements
To excel in this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Attainment of a high school diploma
- Having a GPA of at least 2.5
- Attaining a relevant degree or certification
- Accumulating practical experience
- Being able to stand for long periods
- Able to work in a team
Becoming a CNC Machinist in Wisconsin
To achieve your dream of becoming a CNC Machinist, take these essential steps.
Step 1 – Education
Firstly, your educational journey commences with completing high school.
However, if a traditional diploma isn’t attainable, obtaining a GED is also a viable alternative.
Yet, it’s important to recognize that your educational pursuits don’t conclude there.
You’ll need to transition to post-secondary education, where acquiring a certification or degree becomes imperative.
Stay tuned as we unveil a selection of schools that may pique your interest later on.
Step 2 – Experience
Though frequently underestimated, this phase carries considerable weight, as acquiring experience without certification or a degree can prove daunting.
Enrolling in programs offering such credentials often opens doors to apprenticeship opportunities.
Within these apprenticeships, you’ll gain priceless insights from seasoned veterans in machine operations.
Moreover, it’s noteworthy that apprenticeships often come accompanied by financial compensation.
Step 3 – Earn The NIMS Certification
This credential is granted by the National Institute of Metalworking Skills.
Encouragingly, this certification doesn’t have a finite expiration date, as clarified on the NIMS FAQ page.
Moreover, the official website emphasizes that there’s no fee associated with taking the online exam, and you’re allowed multiple attempts.
Securing this accreditation could potentially pave the way for enhanced earning opportunities.
Step 4 – Apply for a Job
Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you can embark on your quest for employment.
You’ll need to seek out job opportunities within your local area proactively.
There’s also a possibility that the institution where you underwent training and secured your apprenticeship may offer assistance in locating suitable positions.
CNC Machinist Training in Wisconsin
Given the specialized skill set and knowledge required for a CNC machinist, the optimal route to acquire them is through dedicated training.
Let’s explore the avenues where you can access suitable training for this endeavor.
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College 
The program offered here lasts for 1 year, but you’ll learn how to work with lathes, drill presses, and milling machines.
At the end of the program, you’ll receive a certificate.
However, you can continue studying for another year.
You can study part-time, full-time, and only during the day.
You can find this program at 2 campuses:
- Green Bay
- Marinette
Residents will have to pay around $7,526.39 for the whole course.
The sum includes the books and supplies.
You can receive partial financial aid if you need it.
Madison Area Technical College 
At this college, you’ll enroll in an apprentice type of training and learning.
The program is available through the School of Technologies and Trades, a part of this college.
The apprenticeship takes place 100% in person.
It will take 4 years to complete the training, which means 8,320 hours of on-the-job training and 432 hours of paid instruction.
There are 12 credits to earn.
You’ll have to pay tuition for the hours that are not paid for.
The tuition is around $2,340.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Northeast Wisconsin Technical College | 2740 West Mason St Green Bay, WI 54303 |
| Northeast Wisconsin Technical College | 1601 University Drive, Marinette, WI 54143 |
| Madison Area Technical College | 1701 Wright Street, Madison WI 53704 |
CNC Machinist Salary in Wisconsin
So, let’s now delve into the potential earnings in Wisconsin.
On average, CNC machinists earn around $49,910 per year.
Keep in mind that your salary will vary based on factors such as your location and level of education.
Refer to the table below for additional information on salaries in this state.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Almena | $53,520 |
| Baldwin | $53,520 |
| Cameron | $53,520 |
| Hammond | $53,520 |
| Somerset | $53,520 |
| Ellsworth | $52,570 |
| Elmwood | $51,930 |
| Haugen | $50,790 |
| Bruce | $50,790 |
| Bay City | $50,560 |
Regional Salary in Wisconsin
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appleton, WI | 330 | $48,540 | $23.34 | $65,980 | $36,690 |
| Eau Claire, WI | 140 | $46,230 | $22.22 | $61,810 | $34,380 |
| Fond du Lac, WI | 80 | $46,490 | $22.35 | $61,190 | $31,190 |
| Green Bay, WI | 390 | $50,500 | $24.28 | $68,510 | $37,460 |
| Janesville-Beloit, WI | 120 | $44,830 | $21.56 | $60,300 | $31,500 |
| La Crosse-Onalaska, WI-MN | 70 | $46,040 | $22.13 | $60,210 | $36,350 |
| Madison, WI | 440 | $48,430 | $23.29 | $68,440 | $35,610 |
| Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI | 2,960 | $46,860 | $22.53 | $64,120 | $35,200 |
| Oshkosh-Neenah, WI | 180 | $46,930 | $22.56 | $63,830 | $35,190 |
| Racine, WI | 320 | $44,390 | $21.34 | $62,340 | $34,060 |
| Sheboygan, WI | 350 | $42,550 | $20.46 | $47,920 | $36,800 |
| Wausau, WI | 160 | $44,310 | $21.3 | $59,900 | $34,320 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are CNC machinists in high demand in Wisconsin?
Precision machining is a rapidly developing field.
There’s just one conclusion to draw – you’ll have many job opportunities to choose from.
So, the answer is yes.
Do I have to continue my education as a CNC machinist in Wisconsin?
As a CNC machinist, you need to continue your education in the field.
This is because there are new innovations introduced quite often, so you must stay updated as well.
Can I advance in my career as a CNC machinist in Wisconsin?
Yes because the CNC machinist job described here is for the entry-level position.
There are many career paths for you to follow based on preferences and training.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Machinist
CNC Machinist by State