The Machine Tool Technology program prepares people for employment as machine tool operators. During the nine months of classroom and shop training, students are provided with practical work experience in local shops. Course subjects include shop safety, engine lathe, milling machine, off hand grinding, cutting, and drill press operations. Training is provided in blueprint reading, related math, feeds and speeds, precision measurement, hand tools, cutting tools, abrasive, and metallurgy. CNC operation is also included.

Students have the option of working toward an Associate of Applied Science degree. Salina Tech has articulation agreements with several degree granting institutions.

                                                                 Curriculum
First Semester
RL 190 Applied Math
Math applications will be taught as they apply to milling, drilling, and turning applications that are used in machine shops.

RL 270 Shop Safety
Personal and shop safety involving eyes, hearing, feet, clothing, and jewelry, plus proper handling of tools, materials and machines are discussed in this course.

MS 110 Blueprint Reading
Students learn how to interpret symbols, dimensions, and views on drawings, while preparing projects on various production machines. Geometric dimensioning and tolerance is included in this course.

MS 115 Precision Measurement
Students learn to read scales, micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, digital read outs and various inspection equipment. They also learn how each precision instrument is used and how to select the correct tool for the job.

MS 120 Engine Lathe Operation I
Students learn to set up the engine lathe to turn round stock, cut grooves, tapers and threads. They develop skills in the use of lathe tools and attachments in turning operations and selecting proper feeds and speeds for various turning operations. Students are taught appropriate machine maintenance and care.

MS 125 Milling Machine Operation
Students are taught to set up milling machines for milling operations involving flycutting, boring, cutting keyways and indexing operations. They are taught how to identify cutters for various milling operations and how to select proper feeds and speeds for maximum efficiency during operation. Care and maintenance of the machines and selection of tools and attachments for milling operations are included in this course.

Second Semester
MS 121 Engine Lathe Operation II
This is a continuation of MS 120. Students will refine their skills using an engine lathe.

MS 200 CNC Machine Fundamentals
Students obtain knowledge of Computer Numerical Control/Machine Control Unit Evolution, word address systems, Cartesian coordinate systems, axes designations, fixed cycles and offset control.

MS 130 Special Projects/Job Preparation
Students will be able to greet customers in a professional manner and be able to machine parts according to customer’s verbal specifications and/or blueprints. Students will be able to develop and produce resumes and support material, develop a job search plan, demonstrate effective interview skills, identify locations for job listings, and complete job application processes.

Machine Tool Technology  Tool List

Career Placement
Each student who completes a program will be assisted by the department instructors in securing desirable employment. While Salina Tech graduates have historically enjoyed a high rate of placement, the school does not guarantee job placement.

Career Opportunities
• Assembly Person
• Machine Operator
• Machinist
• Tool and Die Maker
• Tool Room Technician
• Methods and Standards
• Quality Control
• CNC Operator
• CNC Programmer
• Management

Enrollment for secondary and post-secondary students is based on first come, first serve by the date the signed application and campus/program fee is received in Student Services. Students are not considered enrolled until the application and fee are received. Cost information is subject to change without notice.


Machine Tool Technology is open to high school juniors and seniors who qualify and post-secondary students.

High school students have the option of renting tools from Salina Tech or purchasing their own. Tools and uniforms are purchased from vendors. Only a limited number of tool kits are available. Enrollment does not guarantee availability of rental tools. Contact Student Services for more information.

For more information, to schedule a tour, or find out about housing or financial aid, please contact Student Services at: 785-309-3100



Salina Tech does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, handicap, and veteran status on admissions, educational programs, and activities as required by
Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972.

Rev 6/07