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Precision Machinist


Start Date: September


Location: Summerside Waterfront Campus


Length: 1 Year


Credential: Certificate, Machinist


Program Availability: Fall 2024 Term

Canadian Applicants: Closed

International Applicants with a Valid Study Permit: Closed

Other International Applicants: Closed



Program Availability: Fall 2025 Term

Canadian Applicants: Open

International Applicants with a Valid Study Permit: Open

Other International Applicants: Open


Get your precision machinist certificate


As a Precision Machinist, you could create something that could become an integral part of an airplane or car, a piece of surgical equipment, or a major industrial machine. If you like to pay attention to detail and have mechanical aptitude, this program may be just what you’re looking for.

You will learn how to take a mechanical blueprint and physically produce the part it describes, and how to operate lathes, drill presses, vices, micrometers, and milling machines to create the precise component required by technical drawings.

After graduation, if you choose to continue your CNC training, you may apply for entrance into the second year of the NBCC CNC Machining program.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

  1. Apply health and safety best practices in the completion of all work in compliance with current legislation, standards, regulations and guidelines.
  2. Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, charts and tables, and sample parts to determine the machining operation to be performed, and plan best sequence of operations
  3. Apply critical thinking and problem-solving to compute dimensions and tolerances and measure and lay out work pieces using appropriate instruments and equipment.
  4. Set up, operate and maintain a variety of machine tools to perform precision, non-repetitive machining operations such as sawing, turning, milling, boring, drilling, precision grinding and other operations. 
  5. Machine simple parts using computer numerically controlled (CNC) tools.
  6. Fit and assemble machined metal parts and subassemblies using hand tools.
  7. Verify dimensions of products for accuracy and conformance to specifications using precision measuring instruments.
  8. Communicate and work effectively with supervisors and coworkers.
  9. Identify the importance of ongoing personal and professional development, that will lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities and to keep pace with industry changes.

RED SEAL


The most successful path to a Red Seal as a machinist begins with the Precision Machinist program. This program enables you to earn 30 hours of apprenticeship time for each week of training and write the apprenticeship year one block exam, which puts you well on your way to Red Seal certification. Upon graduation, once you are working with a suitable employer, you will register as an apprentice to complete your journey to challenge the Red Seal exam. When you register, Apprenticeship PEI will give you credit for the hours earned and block exams passed while you were at Holland College.

The Red Seal gives you the ability to work anywhere in Canada without further testing or certification. 

  • Grade 12 or equivalent with credits at or above the general level
  • Résumé including work and volunteer experience with applicable dates, membership in groups, associations or athletics, awards and distinctions, and any other information about yourself relevant to the program

NOTES:

2024/2025 Academic Year

Tuition, fees, and other costs are listed in Canadian dollars. International tuition includes the International Student Fee.

Fees are Program Based

1 Year

Canadian

International

Tuition $4,560  $10,560
Fees $868  $1,618
Other Costs $1,500 $1,500
Total $6,928  $13,678
/

Canadian Cost Breakdown

Tuition & Fees

1 Year

Tuition $4,560
Student Union $ 178
Health Insurance Fee $ 470
Graduation Fee $ 100
First Aid/WHMIS $ 120
     Total payable to Holland College $5,428
   
1st installment due first day of first semester $ 3,148
2nd installment due first day of second semester $ 2,280
   

Other Costs
Please note: the cost of books, materials, and supplies are included here for your information only, this amount is not payable to the college. Do not include this amount in your tuition payment.

1 Year

Books $ 400
Uniforms/Safety Shoes/License Fee $ 150
Equipment/Tools/Reg. Fees $ 950
     Total $ 1,500
   
Grand Total $6,928

 

International Cost Breakdown

Tuition & Fees

1 Year

Tuition* $10,560
Student Union $ 178
Health Insurance Fee $ 1,220
Graduation Fee $ 100
First Aid/WHMIS $ 120
     Subtotal $ 12,178
   
1st installment due first day of first semester $ 9,898
2nd installment due first day of second semester $ 2,280
   

Other Costs

1 Year

Books $ 400
Uniforms/Safety Shoes/License Fee $ 150
Equipment/Tools/Reg. Fees $ 950
     Subtotal $ 1,500
   
Total $13,678

*Includes the International Student Fee.

  • Production machine shops
  • Machine repair shops
  • Aerospace/aviation shops
  • Farm equipment dealers
  • Heavy equipment companies
  • Shipyards
  • Electrical generation facilities

APPRENTICESHIP

After you graduate from Holland College, your apprenticeship training begins. When you register with your provincial apprenticeship program, you will receive credit for the hours earned and level exams passed while you were at Holland College. Learn more about apprenticeship and the Red Seal program.

Additional Training Opportunities

After graduation, if you choose to continue your CNC training, you may apply for entrance into the second year of the NBCC CNC Machining program

Course Code

Course Name & Description

Credit Values


Course Code:SAFE-1005

PEI Occupational Health and Safety

An overview of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of Prince Edward Island. Students examine the legislation, how PEI employees are protected while on the job and the responsibilities of employees and employers.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:BLPR-1140

Blueprint Reading

An introduction to blueprint reading and sketching skills. Emphasis is placed on developing the math, geometry, and sketching skills that are required to interpret blueprints used in the machinist trade.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:CADD-1350

Computer-Aided Design

An introduction to basic terminology, concepts and functions of Computer-Aided Design / Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software. Students produce technical drawings related to their trade using this software, and are introduced to 3D modeling techniques and processes used to produce manafactured parts.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:COMM-1005

Workplace Communications

This course is designed to allow students to develop preparatory skills for securing and retaining employment including; workplace communication, time management, critical thinking and problem-solving, and customer service. Upon successful completion of this course students are able to use oral communications techniques, and create a variety of written documents and reports used in the workplace. Methods and strategies for job search, preparation and retention are also incorporated.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:COMP-1000

Computer Essentials

Students learn productivity software and explore digital environments with practical applications for various workplaces and educational institutions. The main areas of focus include word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, email and other electronic communication tools, various digital environments, and industry-specific applications.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:MACH-1000

Machine Shop Practices

This course is designed to enable students to develop the skills that are required to support machine tool operations, and to develop an understanding of machine shop practices. Emphasis is placed on safety, workpiece preparation and finishing, material handling, and shop maintenance. At the end of this course, students are able to use linear measuring tools, layout tools, power tools, saws, and grinders safely, with minimal supervision, and demonstrate a knowledge of the correct use of hand tools by performing bench operations on their projects.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:MACH-1100

Lathe Operation I

An introduction to lathe set-up and operational skills necessary to perform basic machining operations on a rotating workpiece. At the end of this course, students are able to operate an engine lathe safely with minimal supervision and demonstrate knowledge of engine lathe practices by planning and completing introductory level workpieces. This course includes the development of trade related measurement and inspection skills using common precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and height stands. Emphasis is placed on the development of visual, physical, math, and documentation skills that are required to perform inspection tasks in a manufacturing environment.

Credit Value:6


Course Code:MACH-1150

Mill Operation I

An introduction to milling and drilling operations on a fixed workpiece. At the end of this course the students are able to set-up and operate drill presses and vertical milling machines safely with minimal supervision and demonstrate a knowledge of milling and drilling practices by planning and completing introductory level workpieces. This course includes the development of trade related measurement and inspection skills using common precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and height stands. Emphasis is placed on the development of visual, physical, math, and documentation skills that are required to perform inspection tasks in a manufacturing environment.

Credit Value:6


Course Code:MACH-1200

Lathe Operation II

Building on the skills gained in Lathe Operation I, students gain the additional skills that are required in the manufacture of precision turned components. Emphasis is placed on the use of lathe accessories, and the application of math and geometry. Students advance their theoretical knowledge and complete projects with an increased level of difficulty. This course includes the development of trade related measurement and inspection skills using common precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and height stands. Emphasis is placed on the development of visual, physical, math, and documentation skills that are required to perform inspection tasks in a manufacturing environment.

Credit Value:6


Course Code:MACH-1250

Mill Operation II

Building on the skills gained in Mill Operation I, students gain the more advanced skills that are required in the manufacture of precision milled components. Emphasis is placed on the use of milling machine accessories, and the practical application of math and geometry skills. Students advance their theoretical knowledge and complete projects with an increased level of difficulty. This course includes the development of trade related measurement and inspection skills using common precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and height stands. Emphasis is placed on the development of visual, physical, math, and documentation skills that are required to perform inspection tasks in a manufacturing environment.

Credit Value:4


Course Code:MACH-1300

CNC Fundamentals

An introduction to Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining. Emphasis is placed on developing the hands-on skills that are required to safely set-up and operate CNC lathes and machining centers. Upon completion of this course, students are able to install cutting tools and work holding devices, establish tool and work offsets, as well as load and verify a basic CNC part program.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:MATH-1005

Math Essentials

This course is designed to provide students with a review of fundamental trade related math skills. Students acquire competency in the math skills as they relate to their chosen trade program and future career. Emphasis is placed on developing problem solving and critical thinking skills. Students are challenged to continually make connections between math and their trade, as well as every day applications.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:MATH-1120

Machinist Trade Math

Building on foundational math skills, this course focuses on math skills applied to precision machining. Emphasis is placed on developing problem solving and critical thinking skills used in trouble-shooting. Students are challenged to continually make connections between math and the precision machinist field, as well as every day applications.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:NCPR-1001

Standard First Aid and CPR/AED Level C

A comprehensive two-day course offering standard first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills from a certified trainer. As required by regulation, this course covers CPR and the management of other breathing, airway and circulation emergencies, as well as, the control of bleeding, treating shock, stabilizing fractures and dislocations, head and spine injuries, and more. Also, includes automated external defibrilators (AED). This certification expires in 3 years.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-1002

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems

Students complete Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training and certification.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:WELD-1250

Cutting and Welding

An introduction to basic cutting and welding processes. Students safely operate oxyacetylene and electric arc welding equipment to cut and weld metals.

Credit Value:1


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It is been an awesome and experiential learning journey. I highly recommend this program.

Graduating Student Survey Respondent, Class of 2024

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