A General Machinist is a specialist who produces high quality tooling and machined components for the precision machining/tooling industries. This program will include computer integrated manufacturing applications. A graduate of this program is able to analyze job requirements and determine job sequencing to manufacture parts to ensure a quality product.
This program is a unique way to access the apprenticeship system. Students will be registered as apprentices in the General Machining trade and graduate with an Ontario College Certificate. After the three-term in-school theory and shop component, students/apprentices will have completed levels one and two of the in-school component of the General Machinist trade and are well positioned to practice along with journeypersons.
The student/apprentice could also use this program to ladder into the Mechanical Technician - General Machinist (Co-op) Diploma Program. The courses in the Mechanical Techniques - General Machinist program are the same as those in the first three semesters of the diploma program. The benefit of the Mechanical Techniques program is that you do not need an employer sponsor to start this program.
Program Facts
Length: One-year Ontario College Certificate program Delivery Sequence: Doon (Kitchener) - September/2013 (Open) - Fall | Winter | Spring/Summer Location: Doon (Kitchener) Start: September First-Year Capacity: 30 Tuition: Please refer to Program Fee Chart for information *Fees are higher for international students on a Student Visa. *Recreation/Athletics, Graduation/Alumni, Insurance, as well as program-related costs such as books and supplies are additional.
Program Outcomes
Solve routine technical problems related to the precision general machining trade by using a variety of systematic approaches and applying the principles of mathematics.
Interpret and produce standard technical documents through the use of graphic and computer skills as required for general machining.
Complete all work in compliance with health and safety legislation and prescribed practices and procedures in the general machining trade to ensure safety of self and others.
Perform basic technical measurements using tools and calculations relevant to general machining.
Apply knowledge of tools and equipment, and manufacturing materials, operations, and processes to produce components to required specifications in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations and industry standards.
Work responsibly and effectively within a machining environment in accordance with appropriate practices and procedures.
Use computer hardware and software to support the general machining environment.
Admission Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or GED or equivalent.
Grade 12 compulsory English, C or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Communications (COMM1270)
Grade 12 Mathematics, C or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Mathematics (MATH1420).
English and/or mathematics testing may be required.
Admission Procedures
An academic strength is calculated by averaging all submitted marks of required subjects. If more than one mark is received for a required subject, the highest mark will be used in the calculation.
Ten (10) additional marks are added to each Advanced level, OAC, U, U/C course used in the calculation of academic strength.
Twenty (20) additional marks are added to each post-secondary course used in the calculation of academic strength.
Please note: Beginning with the application cycle for fall 2014, post-secondary courses used in the calculation of academic strength will receive a bonus of ten (10) marks.
A sound mathematical and English background is important for success in this program and is considered during the admission selection process. Minimum cutoffs apply.
Program Requirements
Applicants are advised that manual dexterity is a required skill in this program.
For program information call the Information Centre for details at 519-748-5220 ext. 3656.
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
Conestoga recognizes prior learning of skills, knowledge or competencies that have been acquired through employment, formal and informal education, non-formal learning or other life experiences. Prior learning must be measurable at the required academic level and meet Conestoga standards of achievement for current courses. Challenge exams and portfolio development are the primary methods of assessment. Other methods of assessment may be available depending upon the nature of the course objectives. Successful completion of the assessment results in an official course credit that will be recorded on the student's Conestoga transcript. PLAR cannot be used by registered Conestoga students for the clearance of academic deficiencies, to improve grades or to obtain admission into a program.
Description: This introductory course will enable the learner to effectively use P.C. based software. The learner will use Windows commands to manipulate files. The learner will communicate using word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software, and combinations of the three to prepare effective documentation. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This module is designed to introduce the apprentice to the skills necessary to read shop-related blueprints. The apprentice will then be able to transfer dimensioned information to measurements on a workpiece, identify the features of a workpiece by interpreting a two or three view mechanical drawing, sketch to scale the three principle views of a workpiece or a pictorial view, and demonstrate layout procedures. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course introduces the processes involved in the manufacture of ferrous, non-ferrous and non-metallic components, to identify their physical, chemical and mechanical properties and describes their identification systems and heat treatment processes. It also introduces the student to material testing methods. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course will introduce the student to the processes, procedures and applications involved in the operation of conventional machine tools used in a manufacturing environment. Topics will include saws, drilling machines, lathes, milling machines and surface grinders in addition to the bench working tools, accessories and fasteners and routine housekeeping required to meet the government safety regulations, manufacturer’s recommendations and approved industry standards. Hours: 150 Credits: 10 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course introduces the fundamentals of dimensional metrology and the use of basic measuring equipment. The operating principles, techniques, inspection and checking procedures will be emphasized. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This module, when successfully completed, will provide an understanding of terminology, basic concepts and applications of algebra, geometry and introductory trigonometry in solving technical problems pertaining to metal machining. The fundamentals of International System of Units (SI) will be discussed to assist students in developing a functional knowledge of the metric system. Perform occupational calculations in the imperial and metric systems to solve technical problems pertaining to metal machining. The student will be aware and understand technical resources containing various data pertaining to metal machining. Mathematical tables, industrial standards, engineering materials tabulated values and machining operations-related data, tables and charts will be correctly selected, interpreted and applied in metal removal operations. Read and interpret technical data pertaining to metal machining. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This mandatory course prepares students for job searching for their co-op work terms and for post-graduate careers. Students will learn to critically evaluate their skills, attitudes, and expectations and evaluate and interpret available opportunities in the workplace. Self-marketing techniques using resumes, cover letters, cold-calls, and interviewing will be learned and students will learn the expectations, rules, and regulations that apply in the workplace with regards to social, organizational, ethical, and safety issues. Hours: 16 Credits: 1 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course builds on the learning outcomes of Mechanical Engineering Drawings I and provides dimensioning terminology and practices including Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing. Students are instructed in Section Views, Assembly Drawings and trade specific charts and tables to produce operational plans for the manufacture of mechanical components. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course introduces the student to Computer Aided Design (CAD). Students will be required to produce two dimensional detail and assembly drawings in a 2D environment. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course introduces the student to the option of business ownership. How business operates, forms of business and the role of government in small business will be the focus. Ethics and established business practices will be explored via case studies. As a culminating activity the student will produce a business plan taking into account various relevant components. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course continues with precision machining theory and practice for general machining. Advanced turning, milling and grinding theory will allow the student to machine complex components. Hours: 150 Credits: 10 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course introduces the student to CNC Programming. Students will be required to produce CNC Turning Centers programs and demonstrate the proven program using CNC simulation software. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course will assist the student in solving complex machine shop problems involving tapers, bevels, V-slots and distance between holes and to solve problems with right angled and oblique triangles using associated trigonometry functions. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course provides the student with the fundamental concepts of the Occupational Health and Safety with specific reference to federal and provincial legislation. The student will identify and recognize workplace responsibilities, health issues, hazard concerns, controls, WHMIS and power requirements. Emergency First Aid and CPR are taught to a certified level. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This module, when successfully completed, will provide the student with an understanding of the basic principles, terminology and theories used to describe the machining process and the selection of correct cutting tool geometry and lubricants. Determination of cutting, energies, forces, stresses and strains and the principles and mechanisms of wear are characterized. Maintaining the ability to recognize situations in the machining/manufacturing environment that would suggest the use of certain advanced methods to assist in economics of metal removal are also recognized. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course introduces the student to CNC programming. Students will be required to produce CNC Turning Center programs and demonstrate the proven program using CNC simulation software. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course compliments and builds on the Precision Machining and Practice II course. Grinding, turning and milling technologies will be augmented with more complex operations. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course provides the student with a practical application of specialized machines and accessories for the manufacture of components including technical data; drilling, reaming, boring, tapers, screw threads on engine lathes; form and combined surface cutting tools on milling machines; use a dividing head; surface and cylindrical grinding techniques on grinding machines. Hours: 120 Credits: 8 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course introduces the student to Jigs & Fixtures. They will explore the reasoning and theory behind the uses and applications of Jigs & Fixtures. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Description: This course provides participants with the skills to set up and use a Co-ordinate Measuring Machine (CMM). Allowing them to competently handle the demand for increased inspection throughout; as a result of high-speed production to high standards of precision in quality control functions, as required by ASME Y 14.5 Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) standards. Participants will also be introduced to essential theory and direct job concepts that must be mastered in order to perform job functions successfully. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Graduate Opportunities
Graduates will gain knowledge in supporting technologies that influence part manufacture and will have additional skills to allow them to adapt to evolving technology. This program will appeal to those who are interested in modern manufacturing technologies and who enjoy working with machines.
For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities see the Government of Canada web site: http://www.workingincanada.gc.ca
Degree Completion Opportunities
Conestoga College is dedicated to creating exciting and flexible degree completion opportunities for many programs for current, former and prospective students. Learn how a Conestoga education can respond to the community's demand for a skilled workforce and help you to reach your goal of a challenging and rewarding career.
Visit our Degree Completion Opportunities website.
Financial Assistance
The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a needs based program designed to help Ontario students cover the cost of post-secondary education. Funded by the federal and provincial governments, OSAP is intended to promote equality of opportunity for post-secondary studies through direct financial assistance for educational costs and living expenses. These interest-free loans are intended to supplement your financial resources and those of your family. The majority of students apply for loan assistance via the OSAP website: http://osap.gov.on.ca. Students can also print the application booklet through the OSAP website.
For more information, please visit Financial Aid/Awards.
The College appoints Program Advisory Consortia members for apprenticeship programs. The committee acts as a sponsor group to register student apprentices in some of the programs they oversee. Committees are composed of employers, practitioners and recent program graduates. College representatives (students, faculty, and administrators) are resource persons. Each committee advises the Board on the development of new programs, the monitoring of existing programs and community acceptance of programs.
For a list of the current members, please visit our Program Advisory Consortia.
