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How CNC Machinist Training Can Change Your Life

Kayse Melone

Kayse Melone

June 6, 2025

How CNC Machinist Training Can Change Your Life

In a job market that’s constantly evolving, hands-on skills remain one of the most reliable ways to secure a stable and rewarding career. This is especially true in the state of Oklahoma. Manufacturing is one of the largest industries in this state, providing jobs and career opportunities for thousands. 

If you enjoy working with technology and solving problems in real time, CNC machinist training might be perfect for you. It could be your ticket to a profession that blends precision, creativity, and long-term opportunity.

At WorkAdvance, we connect job seekers like you with free, high-quality technical training designed to meet the needs of Tulsa's growing industries (like manufacturing). Whether you're just starting your career or looking for a fresh start, CNC machining offers an excellent balance of challenge, reward, and potential.

What Does a CNC Machinist Do?

CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. As a CNC machinist, you’ll use specialized machines to cut, drill, shape, and finish parts made from metal, plastic, or wood - often with extreme precision. These parts go into everything from airplanes and cars to electronics and medical devices.

Your role won’t just be about pressing buttons. You’ll be responsible for a wide range of tasks. 

These can include reading and interpreting technical drawings or CAD blueprints. Programming machines to carry out precise operations is also a big part of the role. 

You’ll also learn how to operate and set up computer-operated mills and lathes and monitor production to ensure parts meet exact measurements.

Finally, don’t forget about learning the safety measures and techniques that will keep you protected on the job. You’ll be expected to perform routine maintenance and minor machine repairs, all while collaborating with engineers or team members to improve processes.

Every day on the job is different. You’ll need attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to troubleshoot on the fly. With CNC machinist training, you’ll set yourself up for a long-term career that is much needed and highly respected.

A Career That Grows With You

Unlike some entry-level jobs that plateau quickly, CNC machining offers a clear path for advancement. After completing your initial training, you’ll be equipped to begin as a CNC operator, a hands-on role where you’ll run machines and check the quality of finished products. 

But that’s just the beginning. As you gain experience and additional certifications, you could move into roles like:

  • CNC Programmer – Write and optimize the code that tells machines what to do
  • Setup Technician – Configure equipment for production runs
  • Quality Control Inspector – Ensure every part meets exact specifications
  • Manufacturing Engineer – Design workflows that improve productivity

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $56,150 for CNC machinists. Plus, many who specialize or take on leadership positions can expect higher wages later on. 

The fact is, you deserve to have a job that is about more than just being a cog in the machine. You deserve to have a career that values your short-term needs and your long-term success. 

At WorkAdvance, we have several success stories of customers who report higher earnings throughout their careers after they go through our program. If you're looking for a career that offers both security and growth, this field checks both boxes.

Why CNC Machining Is Ideal for Hands-On Learners

Not everyone thrives behind a desk. Perhaps you prefer working with your hands and seeing the tangible results of your efforts. In that case, CNC machining offers the kind of work that keeps you engaged and motivated.

The machines you’ll work with are high-tech and require real problem-solving. At the same time, they also give you a sense of accomplishment when you see a finished part that meets precise tolerances. You’ll learn to master tools, read complex drawings, and make real-time adjustments that keep production running smoothly.

Further, precision is so critical in industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical manufacturing. That’s why your work as a machinist directly contributes to safety, innovation, and quality. It’s a job where your skills matter—and where you can take pride in what you create.

Our CNC machinist training programs can be completed in a few months. During that time, you’ll combine classroom learning with hands-on lab work. You’ll practice on industry-standard machines and develop confidence in your abilities. There, so you can get a real-world feel for what it’s like to work in a machine shop.

Where to Start: Free Classes in Tulsa

One of the most significant barriers for people interested in working in the manufacturing industry is where to even go to get trained. Even more important for many people is the question, “How am I going to pay for this?”.

The good news is that you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars to enter this field. Thanks to our free classes in Tulsa, you can build valuable skills at no cost to you.

Our programs are run in partnership with local employers, which means they’re designed to meet real job market needs. We value our connections in the local manufacturing sector highly. 

WorkAdvance’s CNC training also includes direct job placement assistance and one-on-one coaching for up to two years after graduation. This combination of technical skills and career support sets you up not just for your first job, but for long-term success.

Take Control of Your Future With CNC Machinist Training

In today’s economy, skilled trades offer some of the most reliable and rewarding career opportunities available. CNC machining stands out because it blends traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. This is one of the many reasons why going through our program is an investment in your future, not just your present. 

By enrolling in the no-cost CNC machinist training we offer, you’re not just learning a job. You’re gaining a trade that can evolve with you for years to come. The fact is, your path to a meaningful, high-paying career is closer than you think.

Ready to start? Learn more about WorkAdvance’s training programs and explore how you can take the first step toward a career in CNC machining today.