Utilizing hands on learning, the Machine Tool Technology Program trains students in the use of manually operated machine tools as well as the latest in Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine tools. This allows students the chance to learn how to build the future of modern manufacturing.
Virtually all manufactured products depend on America's precision machining industry at some point in their production. Because of this, jobs are readily available and often in high demand for professionals who have the skillset to work in machine tool technology. Are you ready to join them?
In the Machine Tool Technology program, students will
Develop the skills and craftsmanship needed to machine parts to industry standards
Read and interpret blueprints to produce machined parts on a variety of industry standard machine tools
Use industry standard measuring tools to ensure machined parts are made to specifications
Build transferrable skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving and professionalism
Career Options
Graduates from the Machine Tool Technology program go on to earn positions like
CNC Operator
CNC Setup Technician
CNC Machinist
CNC Programmer
Tool & Die Maker
Field Service Technician
Degree Types Offered
Credential Type
Associate Degree – Career-Ready Degree
Long-Term Certificates
– known as Technical Certificates (TC)
Short-Term Certificates
– known as Certificates (CT)
You are eager to enter an in-demand workforce in machining.
You like working with your hands and building things.
You want to start working within a year of starting classes.
You are interested in pursuing an associate degree, but would like a goal to achieve on your way.
You want to start working within a year of starting classes.
You are interested in pursuing an associate degree, but would like a goal to achieve on your way.
You want to start working within six months of starting classes.
You are interested in pursuing an associate degree or technical certificate, but would like a goal to achieve on your way.
You want to start working within six months of starting classes.
You are interested in pursuing an associate degree or technical certificate, but would like a goal to achieve on your way.
You thrive in a hands-on profession that blends mechanical design, technical drawing, mathematics, and computer programming to fabricate parts for various industries.
You have a passion for crafting and designing 3-D objects using computer software.
You thrive in a hands-on profession that blends mechanical design, technical drawing, mathematics, and computer programming to fabricate parts for various industries.
You have a passion for crafting and designing 3-D objects using computer software.
Note: Program availability varies by location and not all program tracks are offered at each campus/location.
NIMS Certifications Build Into the Curriculum
NIMS is an organization formed in 1995 to develop and maintain a globally competitive American workforce. NIMS now establishes industry standards, proven training frameworks, and processes that dynamically respond to our technology-driven economy.
Within Ivy Tech's Machine Tool Technology program, students can earn the following workforce certifications, allowing them to show employers that they have an array of skills that have been verified against an industry-written standard.
Known for its award-winning training, the Associate of Applied Science in Machine Tool Technology program trains the next generation of machinists and makers. Upon graduation, students are prepared to enter the workforce immediately.
Long-Term Certificates
known as Technical Certificates (TC)
Earn this credential on your way to the Applied Science in Machine Tool Technology degree. You can build on your knowledge quickly and then begin working or move up in your role while you continue on to earn your associate degree.
The Machine Tool Technology Technical Certificate (TC) is part of Indiana’s Next Level Jobs degree program, funded by the Workforce Ready Grant. You may be eligible for a free certificate in Machine Tool Technology. You are eligible to be a part of Next Level Jobs at Ivy Tech if you fulfill all of the following requirements:
Are an Indiana resident
Have a high school diploma or GED/High School Equivalency
Have not previously received a certificate in a Next Level Jobs eligible program
Have not previously received an associate degree or higher (bachelors, masters, etc.)*
*Note: Students who are admitted to the Next Level Jobs program to pursue the Machine Tool Technology TC are required to pay for and submit to a criminal background check, drug testing, and physical exam.
Time to Complete
The Machine Tool Technology TC can be achieved in two semesters, or about one year.
Required Courses
Graduates must complete a total of 31 credit hours:
Earn this credential on your way to the Applied Science in Machine Tool Technology degree. You can build on your knowledge quickly and then begin working or move up in your role while you continue on to earn your associate degree.
The CNC Operator Technical Certificate (TC) is part of Indiana’s Next Level Jobs degree program, funded by the Workforce Ready Grant. You may be eligible for a free certificate in CNC Operator. You are eligible to be a part of Next Level Jobs at Ivy Tech if you fulfill all of the following requirements:
Are an Indiana resident
Have a high school diploma or GED/High School Equivalency
Have not previously received a certificate in a Next Level Jobs eligible program
Have not previously received an associate degree or higher (bachelors, masters, etc.)*
*Note: Students who are admitted to the Next Level Jobs program to pursue the CNC Operator TC are required to pay for and submit to a criminal background check, drug testing, and physical exam.
Time to Complete
The CNC Operator TC can be achieved in two semesters, or about one year.
Required Courses
Graduates must complete a total of 31 credit hours:
Short-Term Certificates
known as Certificates (CT)
Earn this credential on your way to the Applied Science in Machine Tool Technology degree or a technical certificate. You can build on your knowledge quickly and then begin working while you continue on to increase your skillset and earning potential.
The Machine Tool Technology Certificate (CT) is part of Indiana’s Next Level Jobs degree program, funded by the Workforce Ready Grant. You may be eligible for a free certificate in Machine Tool Technology. You are eligible to be a part of Next Level Jobs at Ivy Tech if you fulfill all of the following requirements:
Are an Indiana resident
Have a high school diploma or GED/High School Equivalency
Have not previously received a certificate in a Next Level Jobs eligible program
Have not previously received an associate degree or higher (bachelors, masters, etc.)*
*Note: Students who are admitted to the Next Level Jobs program to pursue the Machine Tool Technology CT are required to pay for and submit to a criminal background check, drug testing, and physical exam.
Time to Complete
The Machine Tool Technology CT can be achieved in one semester, or about five months.
Required Courses
Graduates must complete a total of 21 credit hours:
Earn this credential on your way to the Applied Science in Machine Tool Technology degree or a technical certificate. You can build on your knowledge quickly and then begin working while you continue on to increase your skillset and earning potential.
The CNC Operator Certificate (CT) is part of Indiana’s Next Level Jobs degree program, funded by the Workforce Ready Grant. You may be eligible for a free certificate in CNC Operator. You are eligible to be a part of Next Level Jobs at Ivy Tech if you fulfill all of the following requirements:
Are an Indiana resident
Have a high school diploma or GED/High School Equivalency
Have not previously received a certificate in a Next Level Jobs eligible program
Have not previously received an associate degree or higher (bachelors, masters, etc.)*
*Note: Students who are admitted to the Next Level Jobs program to pursue the CNC Operator CT are required to pay for and submit to a criminal background check, drug testing, and physical exam.
Time to Complete
The CNC Operator CT can be achieved in one semesters, or about five months.
Required Courses
Graduates must complete a total of 18 credit hours:
The CNC Machinist program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to program and operate and troubleshoot computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools, such as lathes, mills, precision measuring tools, and related attachments and accessories. The CNC Machinist program will provide students with lab experience to perform machining functions, such as cutting, drilling, shaping, and finishing products and component parts. Includes instruction in CNC terminology, setup, programming, operations, and troubleshooting; blueprint reading; machining; lathe and mill operations; technical mathematics; computer literacy; CAD/CAM systems; shop and safety practices; equipment capabilities; and regulations and laws.
You prefer to learn by doing and hands-on experience.
You like building and making things.
Sound Like You?
If you identify with the traits above, Machine Tool Technology may be the path for you! Take the next step to get started or speak with your local advisor to learn more.
Students coming to Ivy Tech with their high school diploma or equivalent can start straight into the degree program without completing any prerequisite courses as long as they are considered college ready by the knowledge assessment. This testing will assess whether candidates are ready for the level of math, English, and communications required for the program. Ivy Tech will help students if they need additional support to achieve readiness.
No Expiration of Credits
There is no expiration date for course credits that were earned in previous years from Ivy Tech Community College.
Transfer Credit for General Education Courses
General education courses completed at colleges other than Ivy Tech will only be considered for general education selection points if transfer credit has been awarded and courses appear on the Ivy Tech transcript prior to the application deadline.
TR grades are not recognized by the online application. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that transfer credit has been awarded and that TR grades are updated to transfer letter grades (TA, TB, TC) on their Ivy Tech transcript.
It is recommended that college transcripts be submitted to the Registrar’s office for evaluation and transfer credit at least four weeks prior to the program application deadline to ensure adequate time for processing.
Machine Tool Technology Courses
Descriptions of Machine Tool Technology courses can be found in our online course catalog. View required classes and course descriptions for:
See when specific courses will be offered by searching our course list in Schedule Builder. First, select the semester you’re looking for and then enter the name of the course in the search bar.
If you’re a current student, upcoming courses are easy to find in Schedule Builder in MyIvy.
Course Formats
Due to the hands-on nature of our courses, many of the Machine Tool Technology courses require in-person instruction. However, we do strive to make as many courses available online, as possible based on what the subject matter allows. Students can opt to complete the program completely in a traditional, in-person format or they can choose to make a hybrid learning plan with a mix of online and traditional courses.
Applying to Ivy Tech is Free & Easy
The Ivy Tech application is free and easy—you don’t need a certain test score, GPA, or class rank to get started at Ivy Tech. Applying takes about 10-15 minutes and can be completed entirely online.
No Application Deadlines
Ivy Tech does not have a deadline for admission. Our 8-week class sessions start throughout the year—in January, March, June, August, and October—and there is no hard deadline for applying for any of the start dates. It's important, though, to apply early enough that you'll be able to complete all the degree planning, financial aid, and registration activities that need to happen before your first day. We recommend you apply about one month before you intend to start classes. See upcoming start dates
Steps to Apply
(1) Apply to Ivy Tech
If you’ve never applied to Ivy Tech Community College before (or if it’s been two years since you last attended classes here), your first step is to apply to Ivy Tech. You can apply online or in person. To apply in person, reach out toyour local admissions team and arrange a meeting. Or, stop by any campus on any Tuesday for Tuesdays@TheTech to receive personal assistance with applying and registering for classes.
After you submit your application, you'll be asked to upload documentation—such as SAT/ACT/PSAT scores or high school and college transcripts—that can assess your readiness for college-level coursework and help us make sure you are taking classes that are the right fit for you. How to upload assessment documents
If you don't have your scores or transcripts at your fingertips, don’t worry. Go ahead and submit your application. You can go back to upload assessment documents at any time until the end of the term for which you applied.
(3) Look for a Confirmation Email
Once your application is processed, you will receive a confirmation email at the email address provided on your application. Typically the email will arrive within 1-2 business days of submission, but during peak processing periods (April-June) could take up to 5-10 business days.
The email will contain instructions on how to register for classes, as well as important information regarding your Ivy Tech student portal (MyIvy account), tuition, payment options, and more.
(4) Create an Account in MyIvy
MyIvy is Ivy Tech's online student portal. Students use MyIvy to check e-mail, register for classes, pay tuition, manage financial aid, get the latest news and announcements, and much more. MyIvy also contains "QuickLinks" to the Ivy Tech websites and online tools you will use most often. Learn more about MyIvy
Before you can register for classes you will need to submit documentation or complete an assessment test. Your test scores can help us determine the best English and math starting classes for you. See the Test Score Course Placement Chart
If you submitted assessment documentation during the application process, your advisor will likely be able to work with those documents to determine course placement and you won't need to take any further steps. If you don't have any of those documents or the scores don't meet minimum thresholds, don’t worry! Your advisor will direct you to complete our freeKnowledge Assessment to help develop your customized learning path to better prepare you for courses.
(6) Register for Classes
Once you have completed the steps above, you may register for classes. Ivy Tech students register for courses using the Schedule Builder tool which can be accessed withinMyIvy. If you are a new, first-time Ivy Tech student, we recommend that you meet withyour advisor who will help you develop your Academic Completion Plan and help you sign up for courses that are the best fit for you.
For a complete list of registration steps, including detailed registration steps, deadlines, and information about holds, withdrawals, waitlists, and refunds, visit our Registration 101 page.
(7) Pay Your Tuition
After registering for your courses, your bill can be viewed in yourMyIvy account > Student Dashboard- > View/Pay Balance. Payments can also be made in your MyIvy account. For complete information about payments, including payment options, payment plans, how to make immediate payments, due dates, information about refunds, and more, visit our Payments page.
Virtual On-Demand Service: Video | Voice | Chat Monday–Friday | 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. ET Enter Zoom Room →
Contact our Enrollment Center to set up a personalized visit to learn more about this program.
You may be eligible to complete tuition-free training in the Machine Tool Technology program. If you are eligible for Indiana’s Next Level Jobs grant funding, tuition will be covered for you to earn a certificate or technical certificate.
Scholarships from the Gene Haas Foundation are also available, in addition to financial aid. To request information about the Gene Haas Foundation Scholarship, complete this short online form.
If you’re not yet an Ivy Tech student, contact us at 1-888-489-5463 and we’ll be happy to help.
Current Students
Contact your academic advisor, who can answer any questions you have about the Machine Tool Technology program and your certificate and degree options.
Find Local Advising Contact Info
Don't see a nearby Advising location?
Call 1-888-489-5463 and we'll get you started.
Madison Advising Center
590 Ivy Tech Drive
Madison, IN 47250
Fax 812-265-4028
Zoom Video Calls Available by appointment only. Call 812-256-2580, ext. 4502 to make an appointment.
Advising Team Tricia Miracle 812-265-2580 ext. 4137 tmiracle2@ivytech.edu Text during business hours 812-510-3844 Virtual Drop-In Advising Hours: Wednesdays 9:00-1:00pm & Thursdays 2:00-5:30pm Zoom Link
Lisa Kelley 812-265-2580 ext. 4163 lkelley3@ivytech.edu Text during business hours 502-414-1597 Virtual Drop-In Advising Hours: Tuesdays 1:30pm-5pm & Thursdays 8:30am-12pm Zoom Link
Starting Oct. 28th Tuesdays: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All other days by appointment from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. **Special Saturday December 7 @ 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
1 Source: US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2021 State Occupational Employment and Wage estimates: Indiana.(2022). Lightcast™, lightcast.io. Occupational Overview for Indiana, 2022-2023
2 Associate degree cost is determined by tuition for an in-state, full-time student. Certificate and technical certificate costs are determined by tuition for an in-state, part-time student. Additional fees may be applied. Visit the Tuition & Fees page to learn more.
